Les Lea

Sorry😬 but I hope it didn't spoil it for you? Hugs and thanks Les

There's nothing wrong with empathising... though I think Robbie always was a bit more complex because of his guilty conscience. He began to think he deserved what his mum and dad decided as compensation for what he'd done. Indeed, it took me a while to decide where and how to end this story. I do know that there are cultural differences in how various countries like to see the goodie always winning or at least a proper positive resolution but I like to think that others have a right to make up their own endings and thus... a sort of cliff hanger. Having said that...😉 I'm afraid I don't have Netflix so have never seen Adolescent so if our ending are the same sorry (or good) hopefully I can get a job writing for them? Glad you enjoyed it. Isn't that what we all want? Thanks again for everyone's contribution. HUGS

As usual Spark your incite is quite...well... inciteful. You've read the situation perfectly and I thank you for putting it so succinctly. Huge THANKS Dirty Boy, Thanks for being with Robbie throughout his 'journey' (sorry I was looking for a better word but it seemed appropriate) You have been in his corner from the get go and complained that his parents were doing him damage. I am pleased that you have come to the same conclusion about getting him out of that school and away from the gang but I'm not sure your work ethic would alter his guilty conscience. However, his situation now seems to be on the verge of turning critical and he might just need those nappies to help cope with what his future holds. It's my pleasure and thank you for being one of my most constant and respected readers. Your continued comments and appreciation of my work are cherished... as are all comments that are posted. They are the life's blood of those of us who contribute and make it all worthwhile. Thanks to all those who read, like and comment.😊

In the UK, a 12-year-old can be charged with a crime and potentially face detention, but not in an adult prison. While the age of criminal responsibility is 10, those under 18 are treated differently in the legal system. They are dealt with in youth courts and, if found guilty, may be sentenced to detention in secure accommodation, a young offenders' institution, or a secure training centre, depending on their age and the severity of the offense. At no point has Robbie said he wasn't culpable for the 'crime' he's committed. In fact, in Chapter 6, it's explained that on a dare he took it too far leaving the gang surprised at just how far he'd gone. Robbie is very, very guilty and that is what is hanging heavy on his conscience. No, it was 'something truly heinous'. Robbie has never said he didn't actually do anything. Quite the opposite. He knows what he's done and though he regrets it, knows the outcome of confessing will lead to a future he doesn't want to face. Exactly, thanks. You have a better imagination than me... sounds pretty convincing... though he can't confess without incriminating the gang... and what happens in the gang stays in the gang. The thing is, it has come to crisis point that he'd hoped to avoid because things were going so well for him (despite having to wear a nappy). However, you assume he beat up someone although he has never said that's what happened and he can't blame Mally for what did happen because the gang were bystanders. No what happened was all down to Robbie pushing things too far trying to impress but now, video evidence has altered his situation and maybe, just maybe, he can get away with it if he doesn't meet up with the gang ever again. Or maybe, he'll realise that wearing nappies was the very least of his future problems. Many thanks. I am grateful to all who've stayed with Robbie's story and hope you'll add your own ending or make your own conclusions as to whether his mum and dad were correct in their reaction to a wayward son... or not thorough enough in getting to the bottom of Robbie's deed. Thanks to each and all so a huge HUG to each and everyone.

Part 14 Robbie’s parents knew there was a lot for their son to take in. They hadn’t really planned on telling him their scheme until it was confirmed about his father’s promotion, which they hoped would be settled before they returned home. So much had changed for Robbie and his parents had hoped that the holiday would solidify the family relationship, which, to all intents and purposes, that’s exactly what it had done. In fact, as Claire looked back on her notes for the article she hoped to eventually publish, she couldn’t have been happier about the way using such simple things as nappies had reined in their son to such an extent. Not only that, but he totally accepted that until he confessed his real crime (although neither Claire nor Thomas had any idea as to the seriousness of it), or they acknowledged his new attitude was permanent, the padding stayed. After the criticism her initial tentative online article had caused she had taken the opportunity to reflect on all that had been said. Of course it was still ongoing but she was buoyed by her son’s reaction to all that she and hubby had done. Over the past couple of days she’d been able to see that other people’s comments and suggestions were not needed and had quite happily decided - positive or negative - not to take any notice of them. This had immediately put her in a better frame of mind and was keen to see Robbie flourish under her care; the future homeschooling being a very important part of that. Changing her boy’s nappies had also become a very intrinsic part of that care because she knew that bond she had with him as a baby, was amazingly just as strong with him being a teen. Now, after each change they hugged and there was genuine comfort from Robbie as he held the embrace for quite some time. He seemed to enjoy snuggling with mum or dad whilst they patted his padding and didn’t complain about either the disposable or plastic pants into which he’d inevitably just been fitted. ~ For a month now Robbie had been overwhelmed by his parent’s actions and it had taken to this holiday to really appreciate the freedom (maybe of a weird variety) that had got him to where he was now. Total relief: time with his family, the lack of having to prove himself, the sheer delight in waking up and looking forward to the day, even if he was wet and messy – not all these things had been at the forefront of his mind previous to the day dad had said, “It’s nappies for you from now on”. For the time being, the holiday at a lovely location, in a wonderful hotel and with some nice new friends, had proved to Claire that everything she and Thomas had considered had worked out better than either could have hoped for; the entire enterprise had been (and still was) very satisfying. Every day they could see the improvement; Robbie was having innocent and childish fun. In the mixed environment of the international hotel he was getting along with everyone and seemed keen to be involved. It had taken him almost a week to get fully into the swing but now accepted whatever was on offer. He’d made some friends and was often seen chatting to groups of kids of all ages. Darren was nearly always tailing him and thankfully Robbie included him in whatever he was doing. In all the fun, all the games, all the beach visits or pool activities, Robbie’s nappies were always there and he never complained. He was only avoided by the two boys Owen and his mate Steve who had seen his nappy and tried to embarrass him. It appeared that after what he said had resonated with the lads and they thought by even being in his vicinity, somehow, they would be made to wear a nappy. That, like Robbie, was to be dodged at all costs. What was more interesting was that Robbie offered no kickback to the idea of being homeschooled. They had thought he might protest not seeing his school mates again, or feel the change was just too much but as his last report was not good something needed to be done. Claire wondered if Robbie himself knew that changes needed to be made and had seen this as a way of doing so whilst not having any say in how it would be made effective. She was correct, that was just how Robbie had eventually taken his parent’s plan; like the nappies, he had no choice. Claire had told him, once home, that they would search the local area to see if there were other parents also wanting to homeschool and if so, perhaps, like Amanda and Darren, form a new little group that would be self-supportive. She was optimistic this would be the case. Robbie was in a place he never expected to be. The restrictions were actually liberties, the nappies were not a punishment but a comfort, whilst the clothes he wore were a release from being someone he wasn’t. Meanwhile, his parent’s love was unconditional and that had become the key to his happiness. Maybe he wouldn’t have used those terms but that’s what his life had now become. ~ The rest of the holiday passed off without any hitch at all. A second go on jet skis had been equally as exciting as the first time and at one point, Darren and Robbie had been up parasailing together. This ‘trip into the skies’ had seen Darren crying in distress and desperate to get down but Robbie had enthused so much and talked him through his fear that by the time they returned to the boat he was desperate to go again. However, it was not a cheap trip so his parents said that once was enough for anyone. One morning towards the end of the second week there was a huge sandcastle building competition organised by the Atlantico on the beach in front of the hotel. It was split into age groups - Under 6s, Under 12s and Under 16s - of course anyone could build their own sandcastle but unless they’d registered you couldn’t win a prize. The prize wasn’t that much really, just a gift voucher to spend on anything you liked from the hotel’s gift shop to the value of whatever you won but that was hardly the reason not to take part. There was a huge turn out and the toddlers section seemed well organised by their parents who came equipped with more than just buckets and spades – they had moulds and flags and all manner of accessories to add to their creations. Robbie joined Darren and three of his mates in the Under 12 category and didn’t seem bothered in the least. Once this would have been an absolute no-no, mixing with kids younger than himself but, odd as it might seem, Robbie had decided to just throw himself into the silliness and unrestricted fun of being daft - no pretentions, no worries but definitely more enjoyment. It appeared that his parent’s liberating him from having to make any decisions had also liberated his sense of childish fun so relished the general madness and excitement that surrounded him. This was something else this holiday had thrown up, and perhaps it was what holidays were all about, although there were times he felt and wanted to be seen as an adult (as when talking to Anna or the lovely receptionist) he’d been encouraged to simply let himself go. Whatever boundaries there were didn’t include not having as much fun as possible. The wristband may have said where he could go and what he was entitled to but the rest, well, when he was having that much joy he wasn’t thinking about anything else and that was wonderful and liberating. As they crawled and shuffled around on the beach pushing up mounds of sand his nappy gently hugged him and he felt valued. Even plunging into the sea and scooping up water in a bucket to bring back to help shape their developing structure didn’t deter him as the material under his neoprene shorts expanded, he didn’t care. A couple of times when the material appeared above his waist or down a leg hole and got noticed, he nodded to whoever mentioned it and simply shoved it back under cover - not troubled in the least. His little group didn’t win but they had created quite a huge construction, though what it was no one knew. ~ The day before they were due to return home Thomas took an early morning call from his office. He was out on the balcony whilst Claire was cleaning up her son from his full morning nappy and getting him ready for the day. Thomas came off the balcony beaming as his wife had just got Robbie laid out and ready for his pre-nappy cream and powder. “It’s all done sweetheart,” he said hugging Claire tightly before tousling his son’s hair. “I’m to be a partner and in charge of, well, everything... manage all our production and future projects.” To see a strong, tall man in his early forties literally jumping up and down with excitement was weird but even a naked Robbie joined in the family hug. It was a terrific moment and Thomas knew they would have to celebrate. However, Robbie was scheduled at the Under 12s disco ‘supervising’ Darren again, so any celebration would be left until the evening when they’d all go out for a special meal. Actually, what that meant was that whilst Robbie was down in the club for a couple of hours, Claire and Thomas would be able to find their own way of celebrating, which, with an acknowledging nod, they both seemed to think about at the same time. Robbie didn’t catch the ‘look’ but knew that his parents would have a lot to talk about now the news had been confirmed and didn’t want to be around for all that boring stuff so was glad he had other arrangements. Despite the embarrassment of the earlier trip to the Under 12s disco, for some reason he was really looking forward to having a dance. He’d been embraced as a friend by all of Darren’s young pals who badgered him to join them in the club until he agreed. It was nice to feel wanted. Meanwhile, after the initial excitement about the announcement had died down a little, a still naked Robbie needed to get ready for his outing. Dad went into the bedroom to lose a few of the clothes he was wearing, whilst Robbie was quickly well nappied, plastic panted and dressed in his favourite camouflage shorts and top. He felt really great and couldn’t wait to meet up with the guys down in the club. His mother couldn’t wait to wave him off. ~ In the lift down, he read for the umpteenth time that children under ten were not allowed to ride the lift unaccompanied by an adult (someone over 18). On two occasions, when on his own, he’d been looked at suspiciously by a member of staff joining the lift on a lower floor and telling him he wasn’t supposed to travel by himself. No matter how much he protested, they still took him to reception to get his age confirmed. Apparently his wristband didn’t give his age just where he was allowed to go and what was available to drink or eat. It had bothered and embarrassed him on the first occasion but wasn’t too bothered now because the number of times he’d ridden the lift on his own without any comment far outweighed the times when it had. OK, he had to admit that since mum now had total say in the way he dressed he looked younger than he was. Despite the constant nappy she didn’t baby him (although there were times when she fell into ‘baby-speak’ when he was being changed) but he’d come to terms with his ‘newish’ look and simply took it in his stride. There was nothing to be gained from creating a scene or feeling resentful because, as he’d come to realise, the way his life was now... things had never felt better. As the lift descended, on the fifth floor, Karl, Anna, Leo and their mum and dad all joined him on the decent. Undoubtedly, Karl’s family were all very good-looking and even when dressed casually like now, appeared quite elegant. Karl was wearing very tight fitting denim jeans and a blue polo shirt. Like the rest of the family, his blond hair looked as if he’d just come from a hair stylist. Not only that but he looked much more grown up, like a cool sixteen year old. There was no doubt that Robbie felt very much the junior partner in their friendship and was glad that there was no reference to the way his perpetual boyish shorts slightly billowed out. Anna wore matching pale blue shorts and top, whilst little Leo was wearing shiny nylon pull-up blue shorts with Minions on the side and a Minion’s t-shirt, if he was wearing a nappy then it wasn’t obvious. Of course, mum and dad were equally smart and glowed with parental pride. They were all off for a family day out so Anna wouldn’t be helping out at the disco. The group all seemed happy to see him as there were smiles and ‘Hellos’ all around, but Robbie was a bit sad, even after his last experience, when Anna said she wouldn’t be at the dance. As it was, he needn’t have worried because Felice, Gertrude and Albertina were on duty and each teenage girl was very pretty and very attentive to the young ones. Robbie felt his rising passion on several occasions and it was only the thickness of his disposable and plastic pants that stopped him from embarrassing himself. At one point Albertina came over and joined in the dancing with his group of eight year olds and grabbed his hand to twirl him around. He nearly blacked out from the thrill of it. By the end of the disco his nappy was a complete soggy mess. ~ That evening, as they were getting ready to go out for the celebratory meal, mum had got Robbie’s best clothes out and fitted him with one of the distinct colourful disposables and thick clear plastic pants. She pulled over his light blue cotton onesie and fastened it between his legs. “That should keep everything in place love.” She smiled before pulling up his nicely pressed blue linen shorts. Once his pale blue, button-down collar shirt was buttoned up and hung down over his shorts, no one would notice if his padding expanded slightly. They were all dressed smartly with Robbie comparing them to Karl’s family, which as they headed along the seafront to a restaurant that reception had recommended, a comparison he thought they passed. After ordering their meals, and drinks had been served, they chatted about the new future the promotion would enable them to pursue. Of course mum was keen to get the homeschooling thing off the ground and now with Robbie’s support that didn’t seem in the least bit daunting. Well, at least she hoped not. Up until then she’d had her own part-time job to help with the family finances but now she could concentrate all her efforts on keeping Robbie away from that school. The extra money dad would be bringing home also promised more holidays abroad and a general lessening of the financial restrictions that they’d previously had to adhere to. There was a new sofa Claire was keen to buy and of course the redecorating of the house was a top priority. That would mean that Robbie’s room would soon get a make-over from that of a pre-teen to one of a teenager, or so he hoped. “Will I get to choose the design?” He asked hopefully. “Of course sweetheart,” his mother promised but had a definite idea of what his new room should look like. They even discussed returning to The Atlantico at some later date as they were having such a good time. “The thing is sweetheart, had we been in the villa you thought we were going to, you wouldn’t have had half the fun or opportunities you’ve had. Easy access to the beach, loads of new friends, and you’ve never looked so content.” His mother regarded him proudly; his tan making him look even more healthy now the guilt-ridden dark circles under his eyes had disappeared. The food arrived, and as promised, it was superb. By the end, all three members of the Davison family sat fully satiated, and whilst mum and dad finished the second bottle of wine, Robbie went off down onto the beach to watch more games that never seemed to end as the marked off sandy ‘sports area’ teamed with noise and life. Mum watched as he confidently waddled away. She knew the padding wasn’t exactly dry but like so often now it didn’t worry him. Once again she was pleased with the way her boy was constantly improving. There he met some of the friends he’d made and enjoyed the half-naked youthful volleyball guys and girls jumping up and down, hitting the ball and sweating profusely. There were many exciting sights to see (and comment on) and found himself attracted to the lean and agile captain of one of the teams. He shouted his instructions to the team in Spanish and encouraged each player with high-fives after each point scored. All the team members wore matching red and yellow nylon Speedos and he in particular filled out his very noticeably. Robbie wasn’t the only one transfixed as a group of young (and not so young) girls were hooting with delight whenever he touched or stretched for the ball. Robbie was quite entranced until mum and dad found him and they began to saunter home. For the second time that day, his nappy was just a tangled damp mess. ~ Two days later, and with a series of farewells to Karl, the Carpenters and some other friends Robbie had met, and with promises of keeping in touch having exchanged email addresses, the Davison’s were on their way home. The two weeks holiday had been a huge success in cementing the family bond and the sponge-like nappy and thick colourful plastic pants his mum had put him in for the return trip was more of a comfort than a bother. He didn’t know it at the time but his cute thick disposables would be kept for ‘special’ occasions and it would be back to fleecy terry cotton nappies once they were home. However, for the moment he didn’t need to know that as he was happily ensconced in his thick but juvenile Portuguese undies. At Faro airport there were long lines at passport control. So it was just as well that he wore the compact but highly absorbent nappy because standing in a slow moving and lengthy queue it came in quite useful. It was a glorious, cloudless flight back and Robbie, once again taking the window seat, watched the wonderful Portuguese coastline pass below. He was thinking about what his first email to Karl would be about and was pleased that mum had taken several photographs of them both together so thought he’d send copies. There was one in particular where Karl had his arm around Robbie’s shoulder and he was wearing his skimpy blue Speedos... that was his favourite. If he got his phone or tablet back that would definitely be the screensaver. As he thought of that he closed his eyes and drifted off, his damp nappy receiving more contributions that meant it expanded quite considerably and his childish plastic pants could be seen down the leg of his shorts. It didn’t bother him because he fell asleep and only woke up as they were approaching their home airport and had to fasten seatbelts getting ready to land. He looked down at his visible bloated underwear and smiled, he mentally thanked his mum for putting him in something that saved any embarrassment because he knew how full yet again it had become. ~ As they drove back from the airport Robbie was reflecting on just what had happened over the last two weeks... in fact, the last month or so. Change was happening all the time - things he thought would never happen; happened. Things he thought he’d never get used to; he’d got used to. He’d changed; he wasn’t sure it was for the better but everyone else thought it was, so maybe? There had been an assault on his mind, a not very subtle assault, that made him realise he had to somehow make amends. He’d tried to pretend that he didn’t need to, because, as a growing lad he was allowed to make a few mistakes, a few misjudgements and that was all part of him becoming who he was. Except, he hadn’t included his parents in those calculations, nor had he seen that his mother especially, had her own ideas. She’d cleverly (and some might say forcefully) fed her opinions and beliefs into his head by not allowing him to disagree, thus making sure only her propositions were the ones that mattered and acted upon. His own feelings of guilt, dread and the overwhelming belief that he would eventually be punished had made sure she succeeded... and in record time. However, despite the thick, damp and uncomfortable nappy he now wore as they returned home, he still had a few internal worries and wondered if they’d ever pass. This wasn’t helped as he gazed along the streets he knew so well and the church they’d driven by on the way to the airport previously had on their roadside noticeboard - TEA AND A LISTENING EAR. However, now, as they passed on the return journey it had the word - REPENT in large letters and all your sins will be absolved by God. Unfortunately, the feeling of guilt that had to a certain extent lessened, came crashing back into his head and began to wonder if that would ever change. As they waited for the traffic lights to change the sign on the church gave a handy clue and supplied the relevant quote from the Bible to make understanding a bit easier. Proverbs 28:13: "Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy". He wasn’t sure it applied to his parents but maybe it was worth a go... or not! The truth, and the reason for all this business in the first place was, that secret he’d been holding back was just too awful to ever confess or forget. Perhaps, spiritually he could Repent without involving his parents but would that work? Should he go to church and confess even if he wasn’t a Catholic? How did that work? He wasn’t sure but one thing he was convinced of, and had been since this entire nappy thing started, if either mum or dad got to know about that stupid but indefensible act, then everything would change and nothing would be the same again. Although it was a heavy burden to carry he knew he had to. He’d carried it for months before this punishment started, he’d continue to carry it no matter the consequences. He doubted that any of the ‘gang’ would speak about it, there involvement, although not as significant as his own, meant their silence was all but guaranteed. That was another thing, from now on he wouldn’t be seeing anyone from school again if he was being homeschooled, so seeing the gang wouldn’t be a constant reminder. Not for the first time, and he doubted it would be the last, a strong cold shiver ran down his back as the memory he’d tried so hard to forget launched itself to the forefront of his mind. Whilst passing along familiar streets and with the hoped for reassuring surroundings of his home town he pondered just what action to take. Over the past month, since having to wear a nappy, he’d been made aware of quite a few things. He’d found out more about himself but also the unconditional love his parents gave that he’d so easily and recklessly cast aside. It may be weird because he didn’t think he ever would, but he’d grown to appreciate things as they were now. If he kept his secret, his parents would keep loving him absolutely and if that meant no let-up in his guilt, then perhaps it was the price he had to pay for his culpability. ~ Mum had more-or-less decided that he could keep his secrets but as a result the padding would stay. Over this past few weeks she’d grown to relish changing him so much she positively beamed in delight with each soggy or messy nappy. The care and attention, the pampering and total undiluted affection and of course love she gave would be hard to fault, and, although there had been something demeaning about it to begin with, her little boy now thought it wasn’t that bad. Robbie was in a very bizarre situation because, while he was just weeks away from actually becoming a teenager, his mother was treating more and more like a child. Not that she was babying him, no, she simply was more motherly, more attentive and more certain that her son should maintain an innocence. On several occasions he’d heard being called ‘her sweet, innocent son’ something she seemed quite proud of and, if truth be told, he needed that virtue back. She knew there was something in his past that was bad but tried to maintain this rejuvenation, this aspect of innocence, as a positive. He knew, because of what he’d done, that was never going to happen but whilst mum and dad thought of him in such a way, some guilt-free feelings had returned and that was all down to the way she’d been indulging him - mainly the infantile security and attentiveness wearing a nappy somehow naturally produced. At his age he wasn’t into psychological debate but there was no doubt, that when it came to wearing nappies, mum had made them more than a little acceptable to his past underwear. They often did make him feel like a little kid but on holiday that had been a bonus – there was no guilt in the enjoyment of building sandcastles. At the beginning he thought it a stupid punishment which made him appear like a little kid. The fact that they insisted he use the damn padding was another blow to his teenage development, which he resented. Whilst the accompanying fact he wasn’t given any option made him quickly have to endure his situation. So, despite totally rejecting their ridiculous concept, in fairly quick time he’d slipped into it... and with remarkable with ease. As had been proved – if people knew they knew, so, apart from a bit of ribbing by a few kids, his confidence had grown and as a result, cared less and less about his infantile underwear. That had been a huge hurdle he never thought he’d overcome. When asked he simply told folk he was being punished for his actions, which oddly most people took as a ‘good thing’. His mother made sure he didn’t lie and was actually quite proud of his admission on that at least. For what he’d done, all this, was something he deserved, or so Robbie had assumed. Now he seemed at ease in his part as to why he had to wear thick protection and that was what his parents had hoped for. They were a constant reminder to be good, to be aware and to understand he was loved. Other parents wanted to know more about her thinking and if such treatment was in fact a remedy to bad behaviour. She would simply smile, nod in the direction of her well-behaved little boy and say it was going far better than anticipated. She generously hoped when her article on the subject was published it would be of help to other parents trying to cope with similar youthful troubles. However, that idea of a life-affirming article had taken a few knocks. Some of the criticism had been terrible and although, in general, it was positive, she did see that unless she kept it anonymous it could cause Robbie problems. The idea of adding photos was dropped and a total rethink was in order. If Robbie could see things from inside his mother’s head he would be in no doubt that she saw and regarded him as a lovely and loving little boy who had needed a nice thick nappy to remind him of his place, thus, once home, the quick return to fabric. She’d seen this as a way of dragging him away from the negative aspects of a future irresponsible and reckless young life but it had turned into something more... much more. Claire had been more determined and forceful in getting her son back and the results had surprised both of them. The speed at which this turnabout had happened had simply encouraged her desire for him to feel as happy about the situation as she was. Despite at first not being aware of it, she pursued her ideal with a fervour bordering on obsession. Nonstop praise, continuous normalising of wearing a nappy, hugs, cuddles, relieving him of all responsibilities had been key. However, when she looked at her son now, that worried air of not so long ago had been transformed to one of joy, whether the bulky outline of his padding was showing or not. It was yet more evidence as to just how much more positively things had changed and she was determined that the progress that had been made during the holiday would continue. ~ Claire had started writing her ‘proper’ account of what had and was still happening. She checked on the visible proof of her recorded video clips and photographs on just how much her ‘sweet boy’ had developed. Through those images she could see him getting more compliant and at ease with the restrictions she was imposing, an acceptance of the situation. She was remaking her boy and as far as she was concerned - for the better. However, those images would be kept private and the article, if eventually published, would not refer to him by name. Robbie had acquiesced (like he had on all his mother’s decisions) to the plans she’d decided - a new school (of sorts) to attend after the summer break – no Mally (or gang) to think about or impress, a new start. He’d eventually understood what a fantastic opportunity was being suggested and had come to realise just how grateful he should be for it. Being treated as a kid wasn’t that bad so he could at least pretend everything was back as it was when he was younger, after all, he looked the part. The short temper, the rudeness, the disparaging way he’d treated everyone over the past few months Robbie knew that really wasn’t like him. How he’d been turned into such a person so quickly, although a mystery, he didn’t question - except, it was quite an exciting time. Since being put back into nappies, and his parents had made him think about his actions. He now realised the cost was quite high but hadn’t thought just how quickly his return to the way things were had been. His thoughts and worries had taken him to different scenarios he found, as a twelve-year-old, difficult to contend with. What had seemed a great idea and a lark when with Mally and the guys, was truly just a nasty and often pointless attack on someone or something. He’d been led into situations that he could have walked away from but instead had decided to join in. It had taken his mum and dad’s refusal to accept that situation and unbelievably, making him wear a nappy had been that turning point. The dreaded threat - THWACK! - that possibility of a strap being viciously applied to his bare bottom had all but disappeared. He knew his parents wouldn’t be tempted to do such a thing whilst he was wearing a nappy... they weren’t cruel. The other thing he was coming round to realising was that not everyone who’d screwed up like he’d done, were given a second chance. He doubted if Mally, and indeed any of the gang, would be offered such an opportunity. Of course, when he reasoned it out he didn’t want to lose his teenage status, and he hoped, given time, he would regain it but, and indeed it was a huge but, mum in particular had made it clear that there were many hurdles he’d have to clear first. Once again he knew there should be some resentment but, maybe he did deserve this as a punishment, except, now he was used to it, oddly it didn’t feel that much of a punishment. However, there was that secret, that bloody awful, unforgiveable secret. Would he eventually tell and let his parents in on that disastrous mistake? There had been moments when he almost caved and was desperate to confess just what exactly it was that he’d done. He knew that his conscience was a burden for him to carry. However, despite the fear of the dreaded THWACK! all but disappearing, the thought that the police might get involved was too scary to contemplate. There was no denying that what he’d done was that bad but why, after what mum and dad had gone through to get him to where they were at now, why would he spoil it all? It would be too painful for all concerned and one from which there would be no coming back, so why confess to it? This same argument had been going on in his head for some time and he always came back with the same answer. He knew what he’d done. That indefensible act of mindless madness had to be hidden for ever. He also knew and had always known from the very beginning of this nappy business, that he needed to be punished for not only that despicable act of stupidity (there were many others) but also for his unbearable treatment of those he was supposed to love. Would being made to wear a nappy for the rest of his life be worse than being locked away? He doubted it and given the choice he’d chose the former. Robbie was caught in his own mental anguish. He was home so wouldn’t have the distractions he had whilst on holiday but also wasn’t convinced that confessing his sin would relieve him of any guilt. Of course, if he did confess there was a good chance his family would stand by him, but again, that wasn’t certain. If it did come out and there was a court case, he wasn’t sure how he could defend himself and not involve the rest of the gang. He was relying on their silence so would hardly break the pact that - what happened in the gang stayed in the gang. Could he be loyal to both them and his parents? No, no, no, soon he’d be a teenager so it was up to him to grow up and take responsibility. However, not having any responsibilities and leaving every decision down to his parents had curiously been quite a relief. So, if that meant wearing a nappy and acting the little kid for his mother... well... there were much worse options. One thing he was certain of, mummy loved her little boy wearing a nappy and, for the time being, he desperately needed to hold onto that affection more than anything; it was what kept him from being dragged under by the weight of his guilty conscience. Could he balance the two? Not only that but his ‘best buddy’ relationship with dad had returned, and nothing was more important than that. So, on balance - wearing a nappy was the price of that undeniable and enriching love. Therefore, possibly doing as his parents directed wasn’t such a bad idea. Maybe wearing thick padding and plastic pants might keep him focused. Besides, he’d gotten used to the security the whole nappy thing offered. He contentedly ran his hand over the thick, sleek outline that had become part of his daily (and nightly) underwear. He was in a rally good place and, despite all the earlier misgivings, really wanted to keep what he now had. After all, wasn’t the entire concept in his best interest? ~ The day after they got back his parents returned his mobile but continued with restricted hours on his games console. Unfortunately, after clearing out all the old messages one of the most recent text he had was from Mally - DUNT ADMIT TO OWT. An unexpected shiver ran down his spine. That intuitive signal that doesn't bode well but he didn’t know what he shouldn’t admit to. There was a link to a piece of video that was trending (and had been for the last couple of days according to the date the text was sent) of THAT incident, with a young boy, in school uniform, the centre of the action. He had no idea anyone was around to film it but there it was... so why had it taken months to surface? The immediate shock and anxiety turned into something more bowel loosening. Horrifyingly, it was as if, all at once, every tap was turned on and the sluice gate opened as Robbie quickly and unceremoniously filled his lush, reassuringly thick, terry nappy with liquid effluent. It felt like his very lifeforce had drained from his body and deposited itself in his soggy and extremely messy padding. The heavy weight he thought had been eased aside returned with sickening vengeance. Tears of fear, panic and dread sprang into his eyes and a cry of “Muuummmy” died on his lips as if he’d been punched in the gut. He'd thought his new life was sorted... not anymore. ~~~~ The End ~~~~

However, let's not forget that (and although I brought it up) Robbie is not wearing nappies because of COVID. He's dealing with the stresses of growing up, of making bad (very bad) decisions and being basically a 'good boy' is finding the things he did something he can never quite come to terms with. His parents are making progress with their version of what needs to be done but, as yet, they are unaware of the scale of Robbie's 'crime'. Robbie himself thinks he needs to be punished but not sure if confessing it all will make a difference. The final chapter is done and will be online very shortly. Hugs to everyone Les

I'm not sure if that's true or not but home-schooling can be a for a variety of reasons and quite often it is the disgust by parents at the state of schools (crumbling infrastructure), quality of teaching (OFSTED reports that grade schools here in the UK) and behaviour of pupils. Taking all that into consideration... maybe the safety of their child is more important. Hugs

I think, after Covid that home-schooling became more popular... especially here in the UK. Some children have still not recovered from that long gap in their education and some schools have not been given the resources to make catch-up something feasible. Meanwhile, disruptive elements in school make the job of education almost impossible and parents, where they can, have opted for having their kids at home. Of course there are pros and cons to such action and Claire and Thomas have decided, after talking with the Carpenters that it is possible to make it work. They have found a group of like minded people, with kids Darren's age, to stop him being isolated. Robbie's mum and dad hope to do the same. Although Robbie is wearing a nappy because his mum and dad have made him... he is also of the opinion that maybe, because of what he's done, that he actually deserves what's happening to him. The success (so far) of this action is proof to them that they are doing the right thing... and Robbie seems fine with that. So, perhaps it's not typical Stockholm Syndrome... he just thinks that they might have it right. Maybe? Thanks for your concern about his welfare it is appreciated.

I think you're being a little hard on the lad. He knows from everything that's gone on that once his mum has made up her mind nothing is going to change it. If she wants him in nappies then that's what he'll wear. Glad you're happy with the way things are going. I think Robbie is getting to grips with just what his parents expect from him and he's growing into his part. His big guilty secret, although still hanging there, is not at the forefront of what he does these days. He's had to come to terms with such a lot and he's found that he can cope... and cope quite well. Even he was surprised at just how well that all came about. I think he's showing a maturity even if he does have to wear nappies.😉

Part 13 Over the buffet breakfast they were joined by the Carpenters and it was agreed, because it was such a calm looking sea, that a dolphin sightseeing trip together might be fun. Darren in particular was excited about seeing a ‘live’ dolphin and his infectious enthusiasm rubbed off on Robbie, who had to admit to having never seen one ‘live’. As part of the four hour boat trip lunch was included and a half-hour anchor in a sandy bay for anyone who wanted to go for a swim, the boys especially were dressed for such an event. Once again, Robbie had the disposable underneath his robust neoprene shorts but it hardly showed (whilst dry at least), together with a very loose-fitting dark blue t-shirt. Darren had traded his tiny Speedos for a pair of yellow swim shorts and yellow top. The mum’s didn’t look like they planned on doing any swimming as both wore dress shorts. Meanwhile, the dads appeared coincidentally wearing red shorts and red polo shirts, it looked like they were staff rather than holidaymakers. They boarded the boat with about thirty other passengers and, after a basic rundown of the safety features, the boat cheerfully motored out to sea. There was general hubbub, music was played and when necessary or to point out a feature, the speakers gave way to the ‘captain’ who gave a short commentary in English, Spanish, Portuguese, German and French. There was an overwhelming smell of the sea and suntan lotion mingled with light fumes from the boat’s engine. However, the view looking back towards land was quite spectacular with its cliffs and ragged outcrops. Most of the kids onboard were searching the horizon for any hint of the much desired ‘fish’ but to begin with no such sleek creature appeared. The captain was letting the crowd know that a family of Bottlenosed dolphins were often seen where they were heading and only the day before had caught sight of a Minky whale. The excitement of such a possible discovery had everyone scanning the area to see if they could be the first to identify such a prospect. Unfortunately this lead to several ‘false alarms’ as people mistook waves for dolphins. Robbie ventured that people were doing it on porpoise, which got a laugh from his parents but Darren had no idea what he was talking about. When it was explained by his mum he roared with laughter and looked even more than usually impressed by his ‘best friend’. ~ Although the sea was relatively calm, there was a bit of a swell that not everyone appreciated and one or two were finding the side of the boat a comfort as they threw up. Unfortunately, Darren was one of those and as both sets of parents were ‘up top’ on the second deck having a drink, it was Robbie who looked after him as he bent over the side and ‘fed the fishes’. Alas, as he was bent over holding his little friend Robbie’s t-shirt rode up and the waistband of his disposable was available for anyone who wanted to, to notice. A couple of snickering English teenaged lads found this hysterical and were noisily pointing it out to the rest of the boat. Most adults weren’t bothered but it did garner a couple of laughs from other kids who also thought it strange and weird. At first Robbie didn’t know it was him that was causing the laughter as Darren barfed some more of his breakfast over the side. But when he heard the words “nappy wearing little baby” he guessed it was him and when he saw everyone looking his way he sighed. Ever since he’d been returned to wearing a nappy he’d dreaded this moment, this moment of confrontation. However, mum and dad had more or less convinced him to own the fact he was wearing a nappy and not be phased by anyone who thought it amusing or strange. The jibes continued and Thomas noticed from where he stood that some kids had gathered around Darren and his son and thought it was because of the seasickness but decided to investigate anyway. Darren didn’t appear too good but at least it looked like he’d stopped throwing up and Robbie was left holding his mate in support. Then Thomas heard the word “... you big baby” and knew who they were aimed at. He was getting ready to step in but Robbie beat him too it. Robbie had heard the nasty taunts and knew what was coming but for the moment at least Darren was his main concern. However, the fact that he’d been wearing a nappy for some time now and had got used to it, he’d also got an idea of how he’d react should he get challenged because of his padding. Circumstances and attitude were the key... what would be most effective given the situation? and then Mally sprung to mind. “Lads, lads,” it was like he was back in the gang, where more than once they’d had run-ins with other gangs and never backed down. He remembered how Mally had dealt with an older group of lads who were having a go so decided to try it for himself. “You need to shut your stupid faces. I’m the one wearing a nappy but it’s you lot who are acting like dumb babies.” The amused smile disappeared from their faces and the mood changed. In fact, more adults seemed to be taking an interest and Thomas stood ready to intervene but was interested to see where this led. Robbie’s act of defiance continued. “You have no idea why I wear a nappy - illness, childhood physical problem, fun or maybe I’m being punished for being a stupid unthinking twat like you lot.” Thomas had never really seen this side of his son before and yet he was still hugging and consoling Darren as he verbally chastised these would-be bullies. “So maybe, your mums and dads might like to think about putting you back in nappies because you’re acting like spoiled... little... kids. So, grow up and leave me alone.” At that Darren quickly turned and barfed even more over the side but Robbie just turned to comfort him. Actually, what had happened in the Mally incident was that whilst he walked closer to the leader of the opposing gang just chatting and being amenable and almost acquiescent to him, he suddenly let loose a hefty kick in the lad’s balls. Whilst he was rolling around on the floor he challenged any of his mates if they’d like to join him. The older boys were not that tough after all as they slowly moved away. Mumbling insults and retribution, but moving, nonetheless. Robbie’s words, rather than a swift kick, seemed to have the desired effect. The other boys stood around looking stunned and a few comments from some adults that had understood the confrontation were murmuring their agreement with Robbie’s assessment. They may have blushed because they exited and found somewhere else to be on the boat. Thomas found his way over to Robbie and asked if he needed any help with Darren but he just held his mate and said that he didn’t think there could be much more left. “You handled that very well son, I’m proud of you.” Dad smiled and pulled his son’s t-shirt back down to hide the revealing waistband. Suddenly Amanda appeared by their side. “Oh sweetheart,” she hurried to her ailing son’s side, “are you OK?” He nodded but was actually looking at Robbie. “You’re a good friend Robbie,” she smiled her thanks. “You go and get yourself something to drink and I’ll take over here.” “If you’re sure, are you gonna be OK now?” He checked with Darren who was looking pale but nodded he was as good as he was going to be. A few moments later there was a yell of “Dolphins” and everyone perked up as they saw a pod of three Bottlenosed dolphins break the surface about ten yards away. Even a sad looking Darren seemed to shrug off his sickness to whoop as one leapt out of the water close by. Their appearance had got the entire boat excited - cameras clicked and people cheered as a few more sleek bodies joined in the show. ~ Once back on dry land the Carpenters headed back to the hotel so Darren could rest after his seasickness, whilst the Davisons made their way into town as Claire wanted to do a bit of shopping. Both Robbie and Thomas sighed at the prospect, neither being particularly avid shoppers. So, Claire took the hint and told them she’d meet them back at the hotel later and they could go off and do whatever they wanted to. Robbie wanted to go on the jet-ski again but dad said they’d had enough of the sea for the day and suggested they grab a couple of ice creams and make their way back poolside at the hotel. In truth, Robbie could do with a nappy change, so thought this was the best idea and then perhaps, once changed, he could go and meet up with his mates and spend some time with them. Once back in their hotel room Robbie shucked off of his damp swimmers and bloated padding as Thomas got things ready for his change. “You know son,” Thomas began to clean his son with a warm damp cloth, “I was proud of the way you reacted to those lads on the boat.” Robbie squirmed under such praise. “Hmm, yes, erm, sorry dad. I know I didn’t quite admit to why I was wearing a nappy like you and mum said I should... but I did allude to it as a possibility so I hope you’re not angry with me?” He wondered if his explanation would work. “It was handled with a touch of maturity I haven’t seen from you before,” dad replied with a serious tone to his voice. “Maybe these nappies are having more of a positive effect on you than we expected,” he chuckled whilst fluffing out a new disposable. “Yes, I’m very proud of you... very.” Robbie wasn’t sure if his dad was addressing him or the disposable but he did have an opinion and wanted to share it. “Dad,” he wriggled as his father fed the soft padding under his bum, “I never thought I’d get used to having to wear such... a thing...” his conversation was interrupted by giggles and coughs as his father sprayed too much baby powder over his boy’s bare genitals. Once the small cloud had dispersed he carried on. “Erm, but now, well, I don’t mind because you’ve not allowed me an alternative. My briefs and boxers aren’t available and I’m only given these,” he reached down and patted the crinkly plastic coated disposable, “so it could be a lot worse.” Dad fastened the tapes together and reached for a pair of clear plastic pants which he wiggled up his son’s legs and smoothed them into place. “So, you have no complaints about all this now?” dad questioned his sincerity. He wasn’t sure himself as the childish print on the disposable was obvious under the slinky sheen of his plastic pants. His almost thirteen year old son, did look cute and, although perhaps it should have been an anathema for a father to think that way, it was what had brought his son to his senses... so far. “Well, yerrr, I’m almost thirteen and wear a nappy but,” he saw his dad raise an eyebrow, “I know you’re doing this for a reason that makes sense to you and mum.” Dad kept a neutral face, “and I know I’ve quite a lot to make up for so... I don’t complain. I just get on with what you’ve decided and, as I feel quite comfy wearing them... weirdly, now, ummm, I, erm, quite, hmmm, like them.” His voice trailed off with this admission. “Good,” his father patted his son’s padding once more, “because they suit you very well and we think that you have become a much nicer, a more thoughtful person as a result of wearing them.” It seemed a relevant thing to say but dad was being his usual genial self and invited him in for a hug. Robbie snuggled up to his dad but as he was held Thomas added, “I’m just so glad we choose this route and not... well...” he paused and exhaled with relief, “let’s be happy with this.” Robbie’s slinky little padded bottom was stoked and rubbed several times in verification. However, though it was such a caring moment, the idea of the THWACK! briefly entered Robbie’s head and his body quivered at the thought. A consideration that hadn’t entered his head for some time and one he hoped would leave very quickly. After all, he was also glad that they hadn’t chosen that as an alternative. “Thanks dad,” and hugged his father tightly. ~ After a short while dad said he was planning on just relaxing on the balcony and if Robbie wanted to go off, as long as he didn’t leave the hotel grounds, he was happy for him do so. Robbie pulled up his new camo style shorts and slipped over the matching top, which had become his favourites to wear. “Can I go in the arcade?” “Sure, how much do you need?” Dad groped in his pocket and pulled out a €20 note. “Will this be enough?” “Thanks dad, you’re the best,” and darted for the door heading for the elevator. His mood a lot livelier now he had something else to think about. Once he got to the reception area it was busy with a new load of holidaymakers lining up to check in. He felt like an elder stateman since he’d been there over a week and his tan was coming on nicely. He looked at a noisy bunch of kids who appeared remarkably pale and realised that it wasn’t that long ago that’s just what he looked like. Still it was good to see so many other lads and lasses around his age and hoped there’d be a whole set of new friends to make over the next few days. Once at the arcade he changed the note into coins and looked to see if Karl or any of the others might be around but, on this occasion, it seemed relatively quiet. What was busy though was the nearby jungle gym and soft play area for those under six, which was a hive of noise and activity. Of course, once he peaked in he saw that Anna was there with Leo and a whole bunch of other screaming toddlers. She seemed in her element as her and a couple of other teenagers supervised what was going on. Robbie stood for a moment admiring Anna but felt his nappy stirring once again and didn’t want to be caught staring at her so moved off and down to the pool. Karl wasn’t there but a few of their other friends had congregated around a lad’s mobile and were watching a Premier League game on the small screen. Later they heard that a TV near the bar had been tuned into the game so they all trooped in there to watch. The place was busy and although some of the older viewers had beer, the group Robbie was with were enjoying going mad with all the free Colas they could access. As the game continued a weird moment came for Robbie because a few of the lads were rushing off to the nearby toilet but he quite happily stayed where he was and gently let loose a warm stream into his disposable. Of course it was something he’d done before but never (as far as he could remember) with such relish because his viewing wasn’t interrupted; when he felt the need, he’d just gone. Even as his nappy expanded and pushed out the front of his shorts he sat there feeling quite smug whilst still enjoying the game. As the game progressed further the area also became a noisy centre of excitement as fans and critics joined in with their opinions, even if the teams playing were not their own. Robbie thought it strange (but fun) seeing and hearing some of the comments shouted at the ref’s (and VARs) decision-making in a foreign language but understood from the group of kid’s exasperation just exactly what was meant. ~ After the game, and as most people had dispersed either back to their room or to refresh themselves in the pool, Robbie took up residency on a sun lounger to watch all that was going on poolside. He was joined by a couple of other boys who had also decided not to launch themselves into the cooling water but were still excited enough by the game to want to chat about it further. One boy sat on the end of the lounger which made Robbie’s pull up his feet so that his knees were bent. The loose material around the leg of his shorts drooped open and the lad, Owen from Swansea, took great delight in saying that he could see Robbie’s bulging plastic pants. The other boy also grabbed the opportunity of taking a peek up Robbie’s short’s leg nodding in agreement. “So, you wear a nappy,” the lads were grinning from ear to ear but were also somewhat perturbed by the fact that the object of their burgeoning ridicule wasn’t all flustered and trying to hide his shame. “Bit of a baby are you, colourful nappy for pissing yourself...” Owen was pleased with what he’d discovered and hoped to make the most of it. “Mmmm maybe,” Robbie smoothed out the front of his bulging shorts and patted the mound. “My parents make me wear a nappy because of something stupid I’ve done and think this will make me remember I’m still only a kid and not a grown-up who can do what he likes.” That wasn’t the response Owen and his mate Steve had expected, nor the further little addition a surprisingly relaxed Robbie offered as a little sting. “Apparently various parents have noticed and taken what’s happening to me as a possible way of dealing with their own unruly kids... so... before long I may not be the only one. In fact, I think there are already a number in the same boat.” He looked them both in the eye, “Not sure who might be next.” Owen and his mate looked stunned. This was not what they expected to happen and, as a couple of dumb fourteen year olds, wondered if word had reached their parents yet. The idea of pouring ridicule on Robbie evaporated as they slunk off looking more than a little agitated; the superiority that a teenager has over anyone younger suddenly disappearing when they themselves felt threatened. There was no doubt that the thicker and more childish disposable was much more comfy to wear than the ones his mum had put him in originally. Not that they weren’t comfy it was just a different level of comfort that Robbie could feel and appreciate. Maybe it was these that had given him the confidence to say what he said? As he sat contemplating exactly just what he’d said, he wondered where it had come from. It sounded, even to him, rehearsed but as far as he knew it had just flowed, like his pee, all very naturally. That ‘smug’ feeling returned and Robbie was left alone to enjoy the rest of the sunny afternoon lounging by the pool and appreciating the sights and sounds of loads of kids taking full advantage of the hotel’s facilities. He smoothed the prominent bulge down and liked the way the sun shining on his polyester camo shorts reflected a sort of sheen, which he thought made them look even ‘cooler’. ~ Twenty minutes later Karl came and joined him looking very relaxed and smart wearing jeans and a Mainz football jersey as he and his dad had just been to a German bar to watch a game there. They sat for a while, once again Robbie with his knees up so his friend could sit on the end of the lounger but obviously didn’t care if he saw his bulging nappy or not. The smugness, this feeling of being in control of the situation was quite new. He’d wondered what his reaction to being found out would be like and it had surprised him just how unconcerned he’d been when it happened. It could have been down to the fact that his parents had normalised him wearing a nappy so much, that was what it was... normal. He hadn’t been scared, in fact he was proud of himself for not feeling embarrassed and dealing with it the way he had but now wondered, should Karl say something, a person he liked and respected, would he react the same way? The thing was, Karl knew that Robbie wore padding, not because his sister had told him but simply from previously seeing the bulge in his swimming trunks. Nevertheless, he knew that it was no concern of his why a person wore windeln (nappies), it could be for medical, or other social reasons and was none of his concern, so he just hadn’t mentioned it. He’d been brought up to respect other people’s differences by parents who had concern for people’s feelings and privacy. However, at that moment Karl could see a smiling face of some cartoon animal, covered in clear plastic, grinning at him down his friend’s shorts. It made him chuckle to himself but thought he wouldn’t embarrass Robbie by making a comment. It was up to Robbie to decide if he wanted to say anything or not. However, it probably explained why he didn’t go in the pool as often as others. Whatever the reason Karl liked his English buddy. There was no Blödsinn like there was with some other kids on holiday. He wasn’t constantly trying to prove himself or be better than he was and although he didn’t know him before, Robbie came across as a very nice guy. There was something ‘naïve’ about him. Karl wasn’t sure if his assessment was correct or that was the exact term, but in some ways he didn’t appear to be a twelve year old (the age he said he was) in his dress sense or attitude. It was like he’d found an age where he was happy and settled into that. Robbie hadn’t told him about his past association with his school gang so all that side was never on show. Karl had quite liked the fact that he’d mixed with Darren and had no trouble with the age difference and he’d seen him dancing with six and seven year old girls in the disco without looking in the least self-conscious. Karl had noticed his padding even then... though maybe his friend was unaware of that fact. In spite of this, his little brother Leo wore similar windeln and he looked really cute in them and, if he was honest, so did Robbie. ~ When Robbie returned to the top floor his mother was back having bought a few extra items and souvenirs to take back for friends. He found his parents on the balcony enjoying a chat and sharing a bottle of chilled Vinho Verde. He grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge and joined them. He noticed that whatever they were talking about was private because he could hear the change in conversation topic, they didn’t hide it particularly well. What they’d been talking about was the homeschooling idea and whether they should let Robbie in on their plans. The initial idea was to see if he’d go with the notion or if he’d create and insist on going back to his school, something his mother at least was dead against. They were stuck as to whether to just jump in and tell him what was going to happen or just gently try and ease him into the situation as they wanted it to happen. Armed with his new found confidence Robbie launched straight into his thoughts. “What’s the big secret?” Thomas and Claire looked at one and other and seemed to come to the same conclusion – it was time to tell him their plan. “Well love,” she patted the seat next to her and Robbie settled down to hear what his future was going to be. “As you know, we’ve been talking with the Carpenters and they have taken it upon themselves to homeschool Darren because they weren’t happy with the school in their area.” Robbie nodded and suddenly realised what was coming next. “Erm, does this have anything to do with my return to class next term?” “Yes.” His dad looked serious but his mother was all smiles. She went on, “Because of, well, last terms problems we’ve decided that it might be in your best interests to have a break from the influences that aren’t good for you.” Even in the warmth of the still sunlit balcony for some reason a chill ran through Robbie’s body. He was going to say something but dad jumped in. “Since the summer break and being kept away from those terrible lads, you’ve behaved and there has been a positive change in your personality... something your mum and I want you to keep.” Robbie wriggled a little uncomfortably in his nappy and a slight whoosh from his plastic pants escaped. It was as if it was signifying that it was his nappies that had made his attitude and behaviour change. However, he kept quiet and let his parents explain everything. ~ At the back of his mind he was thinking that he was going to be homeschooled with Darren by his mum and that would have made him equal to an eight year-old. There was a rising panic as he thought his mum and dad wanted to keep him as a little kid and stop him becoming a teenager. He found his voice. “Does that mean I’ll be homeschooled with Darren?” He asked disconcerted. “Oh sweetheart, no,” his mum saw how the idea had depressed him, “I’ll be doing the homeschooling... it will be at our house and your dad and I think it would work a treat if we can get everything organised before the new term begins. However, the bottom line is, we have no intention of sending you back to that school if those kids are going to be there. We will not go through all that again and we think neither should you.” “But, erm, but, ummm...” There were seeds of a protest growing in Robbie’s mind but he was having trouble actually formulating any objection. Both his mum and dad took turns in explaining what they’d planned and when Robbie realised that it probably wasn’t such a bad idea to keep him away from Mally and the gang, he began to think in a more positive light. He was totting things up himself and therefore missed quite a bit of what was being said. However, he came back to listening as his mother smiled but it had a ‘this is how it’s going to be’ vibe about it. “... you’ve made so much progress love that we don’t want to see you slip back into those erroneous ways.” Robbie couldn’t help it but a tear ran down his cheek. “Don’t cry sweetheart,” his mum comforted, “it’ll be alright. Amanda has given me loads of advice and apparently, it couldn’t be easier to arrange... but you will have to cultivate some different friends, which hopefully we can do by seeing if there are others in our area who want to do the same with their kids.” The thing was, the tear wasn’t because of what he would lose, it was because his parents had given him a way out of having to see the gang again. His guilt about what he’d done wasn’t going to go away but he was sure that Mally and the rest of the gang’s influence would, despite any commitments to his family, be tested over and over again. He knew that a complete break is what he needed although being homeschooled wasn’t something he’d thought about. However, now it was on offer, perhaps it was an ideal time to... His thoughts were interrupted by his mum telling him a few more things that were going to happen. “Don’t think this would mean you could lie in bed all day, there would still be a learning regime and a dress code so you were aware that this was not an excuse to do nothing. Mrs Carpenter was very specific about keeping to a schedule and making sure it was adhered to by all concerned.” Robbie was unsure but it looked like his parents had decided and doubted if he could change their minds, even if he wanted to. He wasn’t sure he did, although the fact that he wouldn’t be able to be part of a football team was a minus for homeschooling. Having said that, he thought how little he’d actually played since being in the gang and how the gang had become everything. It had driven him to act stupid and... Oh yes... that guilty secret... would he ever pluck up the courage to tell them or, as he’d more or less decided, take it to his grave? The more they talked and enthused the more he wondered if this was an opportunity, like wearing a nappy, to better himself. Should he embrace the entire concept and buckle down and accept that his parents, as had been proven, know what’s best for him? Also, would nappies be staying because, if he did return to school and still had to wear them, he’d rather be at home. He asked the question, “Erm, would I still have to wear a nappy?” He was inadvertently tenderly rubbing the bulge in his shorts as he said this. “Yes of course sweetheart, the nappy has proved to work and, as we’ve said already, we don’t want to see you slip back into your bad ways. Also, and I’m sorry to repeat what we said at the very beginning... we know what you’ve done and we also know there’s more than you’ve confessed to so, until that area is all cleared up... your nappy,” she smiled cheekily, “which has never looked better on you, will stay. OK?” She was chipper and upbeat and offering him a chance to tell all and perhaps get out of having to wear a nappy but he stayed silent. Robbie wasn’t sure whether to be annoyed or pleased. He’d gotten used to his nappies and plastic pants (even though he thought such a thing would never happen) and he quite liked the way things were with his mum and dad. In fact, if he was honest, things had never been better and they could enjoy each other’s company in ways he thought would no longer happen. Such was the change the last few weeks had delivered. His full nappy was visible down his pants leg to his mum who smiled and said perhaps it was time for a quick change but Robbie said he’d wait until they were going out to dinner. “I think there’s room for a bit more absorption.” Was a sentence he never would have expected to have uttered and yet, he was very comfortable in its expanded and cosy form. There was a hug to his groin which made each one of these thicker, childish disposables very, very dependable. ~ tbc ~

Thanks. Shouldn't be long😉

This was something he did right at the beginning but didn't fool anyone. In fact, his mother noticed there was much more going on in her son's head and it was something he himself was finding hard to cope with - still he didn't want to confess to that because it was, to him at least, too intense. I think you're correct, it is never the answer because he's tried it and failed. You are relying on other people being easily fooled and has been proven time and time again, Robbie's parents aren't that kind of people. Not a baby... but perhaps feeling better in the skin he finds himself in.😊 I think you have grasped what is happening to Robbie - he is changing, he is accepting and he is finding things out about himself that he was totally unaware of. His nappy is, to a certain extent, stopping him from erupting in it but a boy his age... well... it's going to happen even without too much encouragement.😬 His feeling of GUILT is not something he can pretend isn't the major reason he's accepting quite a lot of what is going on. Does he deserve it? Well, he obviously can't pretend he hasn't done something wrong, something so stupendously bad that the very thought of it sends him into shivers of regret. Don't underestimate just how guilty Robbie is feeling (or why he should feel that way) because he knows the truth, his mum and dad can only guess... and they're way off. Hugs and thanks for reading and getting involved. Les😊

Part 12 “Oh, erm, nothing... it’s just, errrrmmmm,” Robbie was stalling for time. “I think...” then he had a brainwave, “I think mum got me the wrong wristband,” he waggled it in front of Karl’s eyes, “see, green and white which I’m sure is wrong as it should be like yours... more multi coloured.” “Hmmm,” Karl looked at his and Robbie’s wristbands he knew the green and white one is for under twelves. He looked up at Robbie and shrugged as if he thought it was probably correct but Robbie just wanted to appear older than he was and although Robbie had said he was nearly thirteen thought that might not be true, after all, an eight year old was his best friend. Karl didn’t judge, he liked the English boy “Well, it won’t stop you getting anything I can get but you can go some places I can’t so... I wouldn’t worry about it.” Robbie was just relieved that he didn’t have to confess anything about his nappy although for some reason it suddenly did feel larger than it had under his shorts. He then realised he’d just released a stream into it without being aware. Was the anxiety of waiting for an answer about any ‘Darren revelation’ just too much? The developing warming glow was distracting him from what his friend was saying. Thankfully he remembered just how well his mum wrapped him up and that the new rubber pants with the robust elasticated leg cuffs would hold whatever was released. “Sorry, what did you say?” He looked at Karl, his eyes eager for fun. “I just said that the console over there is free do you want a game?” He was a little distracted himself as a few of his other friends were beckoning him over to another screen that, judging from the excited noises coming from the little crowd gathered around the player, was reaching some kind of climax. “Sounds like fun,” Robbie was pleased to have something to take his mind off of his snug expanding disposable. Over the weeks since he’d been put back in nappies, and completely unconsciously, wearing wet padding had become less and less of a problem and, although he probably wouldn’t want to admit it, didn’t find the sensation totally unpleasant anymore. So, as he walked around, or unintentionally rubbed himself up against various apparatus as he watched others or played himself, his expanded nappy was producing some very nice sensations. Another burst of pee only adding to the comfort and excitement he was enjoying. There was far more gratification going on under the folds of material than he was letting on. ~ He’d loved the company of all the other kids - playing games, watching totals tot up as some whizz had found the way to beat the tech or simply the raucous satisfaction of a load of noisy kids together. It was just after eleven when he looked at the clock and realised, for the first time in ages, he’d been without mum or dad’s supervision for longer than ever. Now he hadn’t been given a curfew or an expected time to return but, even though there were some younger than him still playing the various amusements, thought it time for him to return to the top floor. With a wave of ‘good night’ he made his way to the hotel elevators. As he waited for one to descend he was joined at the door by Anna which made him feel nervous. He nodded and she gave him that perfect smile back. Even at this time of night she looked stunning. “How are you... Robbie?” She pulled his name from her list of the many kids who were at the hotel. “Erm, fine, erm, Anna thanks, erm, danke.” He tried to smile back but of course the memory of their last encounter came flooding back – that and the fact that he was once again wearing a very soaked nappy made him blush and feel very self-conscious. Despite wanting to appear grown up around her he felt like a little kid, even more so because she knew his secret. “Gute, gute,” she responded and quite naturally appraised him whilst noticing his expanded shorts. “Have you had a gute zeit?” There was just that accent, mixed German and English, which just made her sound even more exotic and desirable but at that moment he just hoped she wasn’t going to suggest a fresh nappy change. “Just been in the arcade with your brother.” He tried his best at small talk. “Ah, he’s there is he? OK Robbie I need to go and fetch him. Gute Nacht.” And she disappeared back toward the arcade intent on finding Karl as the elevator doors opened and with relief found he had the lift to himself. ~ Once back in the room his mother had already retired for the night but dad was still up and had all Robbie’s night time requirements set out next to his bed. “Sorry dad, I met up with some mates and didn’t realise how late it was getting.” “Don’t worry lad, you’re not in any trouble but I’m glad you’re back before midnight otherwise we’d have started worrying.” He said placating any anxiety his son was experiencing. Robbie was relieved he wasn’t in trouble and also that his parents had trusted him enough to let him out on his own and there’d been no time restriction on his return. This was a new development, they trusted him to know when it was time. He felt quite proud of himself, despite the heavy nappy under his shorts. Dad automatically patted Robbie’s bottom and knew that it was time to get him ready for bed so asked if he needed any help stripping down. “No but I could do with a pee,” Robbie half joked. “Well, you’ve still got your nappy on so... let loose and I’ll change you when you’ve finished.” Although Robbie had been joking he suddenly knew, with all the drinks he’d had at the arcade, he could actually pee a little more so simply forced what was left out. Meanwhile, dad went out onto the balcony and cleared the table and brought in the empty bottles of water he and Claire had been drinking that night. “You done?” Dad regarded his son who was standing with legs apart and a look of success on his face. Dad smiled to himself, it had been amazing to see how accepting of his nappied status Robbie had become and how it didn’t bother him at all filling his padding in such a way. Thomas watched as Robbie kicked off his trainers, slipped effortlessly from his t-shirt and then shuffled down his camo shorts leaving him standing in just his rather expanded plastic pants and the tell-tale bulge of a rather wet disposable underneath. “Looks full son... hope you haven’t wandered around with it that soaked for too long,” but he wasn’t having a go just being fatherly and concerned for his son’s welfare. “Mum usually supervises this bit,” Robbie reminded his dad, “so as not to get any dampness on the floor or furniture.” “Quite right too,” dad responded and was quickly there to ease his plastic pants down and pull on the tapes, whilst a hand between his son’s crotch held the weight of the sodden nappy. Once that was completed, and the nappy set aside where it could do no harm, Thomas set about wiping his son down with a warm damp cloth before the nightly regime of lotion and powder. Once again Thomas was pleased with the comfortable stance his son held whilst all this was going on. He chatted about the latest games they had down in the arcade but there was no reaction against what dad was doing. No shame, no wriggling, not even an acknowledgement that this was anything but normal, as dad slipped him into a rather thick (with extra padding) disposable and pulled up a clean pair of sweet cartoon plastic pants. Patting him down Thomas said he was ready to go but, if he wasn’t tired, they could sit on the balcony for a little while and chat. Robbie smiled and said, “Yes, I’d like that.” ~ The breeze had died down and it was back to being a warm and sultry night. Dad was sitting in a t-shirt and boxers, his son in t-shirt and bulging protection, both seemed at ease with the situation. Even though they talked, it wasn’t about anything in particular and all the time, basking in his dad’s love and concern, Robbie began to think about how they’d got to this stage. When he changed schools a year ago and went up a level, mum and dad had given as much freedom as they could to an eleven year old. They trusted him to be good and responsible like he had been all his life but then – the gang. He was no longer interested in hugs and praise from parents all he wanted was to be accepted by this group of kids who were way out of his natural comfort zone. He tried to fit in; he did some really bad stuff even though it didn’t sit easily with him. They were doing things any parent would never understand but that pre-teens needed to do to prove themselves. Over the past few weeks it had come as a bit of a shock that being treated the way he now was meant he was cherished. Not that he wasn’t loved before, it was just he’d rejected that innate parental care and had decided, as age demanded, his new independent mates were the way to go. When he thought back over the last year, the madness, the stunts, the stealing, the rudeness and the incident that changed school life, he couldn’t have imagined that giving someone a sandwich would lead to such a colossal transformation of himself. To begin with he was overawed to be part of the school bully’s group. It was so out of character but it nudged a need in him to step away from the Mr Niceguy image he had and find what else was on offer to a growing lad his age. The weird grudging respect being part of a gang generated and then the need to prove himself by going further than anyone else, that was the big one. It had been a mad year. Unfortunately, the sleepless nights, the last minute dashes to the toilet and the occasional (but never admitted to) nocturnal accidents, meant the desire to keep everyone at arm’s length less they discover the truth of what he’d done. It was all a heavy, heavy burden. Conversely, that morning not so long ago, when dad had been firm and told him that he was being returned to wearing a nappy, had jolted him from all that. To be truthful, he hadn’t known what to make of it and at first thought it must be a joke. It was preposterous, stupid, insane and would never happen... but it had. His twelve year old macho posturing didn’t work because his dad, the man he’d known all his life, the loving father who had taught him so much, had decided that enough was enough. He knew physically that dad was no push over, and although he’d let Robbie go his own way, there was still, in his twelve year old mind, the knowledge that dad was the disciplinarian if he so chose. So, in the beginning it looked like dad had led the proceedings, which was probably the idea, a more imposing and difficult person to rebel against. However, it had soon become clear that it was mum who was driving the ‘reclamation’ of their wayward son. What his parents were doing without Robbie realising it was what he needed and, although knew he should react and fight for his independence, somehow, somewhere, deep down, he recognised they were trying their best to save him from himself. Because of those past (and some relatively recent) ‘misdemeanours’ Robbie thought he didn’t deserve his family’s affection. The image in his head of actual physical punishment, the THWACK! took control. It was something he was terrified of but probably thought he deserved so that led to him being scared into compliance. Even though he knew he’d done something far worse, that brutal physical element was just too much to consider. Although, if it came to it a quick smack was probably something he could handle, the thought of regular and unrestricted beatings that he was sure what he’d done would warrant, wasn’t. Even though the gang members had all inferred that domestic beatings and physical punishment was part of their day-to-day lives, for Robbie that thought really unnerved him. Contrariwise, with this change in parental supervision and how quickly he’d found himself well-padded and valued, he’d begun to appreciate and desire the return of that loving emotion. The last few weeks had made him realise that there was perhaps some method in their madness and they were simply relieving him of any and all responsibility. At first he rejected the very idea but despite the mumblings, the tantrums, the harsh words, in the deep recesses of his mind, he knew he deserved what was happening. He knew he’d have to pay for what he’d done, even if his parents didn’t know just what it was that he had done. They’d gone a strange way about doing it, of making a point, but now he didn’t have to prove anything. Even how he dressed (and what he was dressed in) was decided for him so didn’t have to think about something as basic as that. They’d taken away that necessity all growing kids desire most, to be an individual and self-absorbed teenager (but look where that had got him) and given him the chance to start again. The nappy, although quite a peculiar idea, was, as it turned out, making some kind of sense. ~ Although he was rapidly approaching his teens there had been quite a change in how Robbie perceived himself. For instance, he’d never really noticed girls before – the receptionist and Anna had both turned his head and provoked a basic physical reaction. Then there was Karl (and if he was honest, quite a few other semi-clad lads that visited the pool and beach) who also seemed to produce something similar. Perhaps because of his past interest in playing football and then falling in with the gang his mind had never wandered into such areas before. However, being in a gang had made him desperate to be thought of as grown up so these current observations and interests of the people around him seemed to prove he was certainly on the way. But then, and though he was loathed to admit it, the release of responsibilities and building sandcastles with Darren and his friends had been more fun than he thought possible. The liberation of having to be one thing or another had been completely obliterated by this holiday. Even when he played footie or joined in with any of the games, those simple pleasures were really just as much fun. It was like experiencing and appreciating things he’d dismissed as too childish... and it was amazing. It had all lifted him out of a worrying and depressive mind set. But why? He seemed caught between both sides of his development without one winning over the other. Possibly that’s why mum dressed him younger than he was? Maybe this was a good thing? Maybe mum and dad had wanted it this way. Maybe because there’d been a dramatic realisation in what Robbie understood his place to be and what was expected of him, he could be himself. Mum had said or alluded to this simple fact on a number of occasions - there was no rush to grow up. Oh, and what was expected of him was, as it turned out, nothing. All he had to be was a loving and thoughtful son. He could hear his dad still talking, he could hear the muted babble of people down by the pool, but his mind was elsewhere. “...and what do you think?” Thomas leant over to get his son’s opinion. “Hmmmm,” Robbie nodded hoping to delay his reply and make dad assume he was thinking about it, when in fact he had no idea what the question was. “Erm, dad I’m tired so I think I’ll sleep on that,” he got up to leave, “night-night” gave him a kiss on the cheek and left dad wondering. He crinkled his way to bed, his thick padding a reminder of his place in the family, and slipped under the thin sheet, his mind alive on so many subjects he thought he’d never get to sleep again. Nonetheless, within two minutes he was dead to the world. ~ Robbie’s arms were held by his side but away from his body. He tried to free himself but was held tightly down. He was wearing a t-shirt and his baggy red shorts but his legs were spread apart and also restrained so they couldn’t move. There was something in his mouth, a gag of some kind that only allowed a muffled scream that, although panicky, really wasn’t attracting anyone’s sympathy. A figure approached with scissors; it was Anna. As she got closer so it became obvious that Robbie was in what looked like a public operating theatre because he could see other people - kids from the beach, the pool and any number of others old and young from the hotel - begin to crowd around. Panic and a dry throat made him believe that this was not a good position to be in but no matter how much he struggled there was no help and no escape. “Now you will see,” Anna looked around at the assembled crowd, “as I remove Little Robbie’s clothing,” She was speaking in English, although it might have been German but he could understand what was being said. “All will be revealed.” She began to cut away his clothes. Once his t-shirt and shorts had been removed she looked up at her audience, “As you all can see, Little Robbie is already prepared for this operation. He wears the nappy and plastic pants that are needed to contain what is within.” A smattering of coughs, whoops and giggles echoed around the operating theatre. She ran her hand over the shiny plastic cover, pressing down the padding underneath, which was like the thick cotton nappies mum dressed him in right at the beginning. Anna gently caressed the material, rubbing the two different fabrics, cotton and plastic, together in a soothing and relaxing way. The dread seemed to ease from Robbie and he began to settle down. However, the audience began to crowd around and could see his parents off to the side holding each other’s hand smiling and looking encouraging. “It won’t be long sweetheart.” He could read his mother’s lips as Anna’s palms slipped up from his groin and began to gently, and at first almost imperceptibly, rotate on his soft boyish tummy. She started at his belly button and rotated out, her palms covered in oil or some lotion. He felt her begin to increase pressure as the rotations got longer but heavier, soon his stomach began to cramp. Anna noticed the change in Robbie’s breathing; the strain as he tried to release himself from his bindings coupled with a new terror that was growing in his belly. “No,” he screamed into the gag, he wasn’t going to allow this to happen in front of such an audience. “Let it go Robbie,” Anna whispered, “Let all your guilt and worry go.” The pressure was building and he knew, that soon, and with or without this crowd of people watching his bowel was about to release its load. “Don’t hold back Little Robbie,” her voice was soothing but heartfelt. Her superb young boobs jutted through her tight pink jumper, “get rid of it once and for all... you no longer need it... your nappy will be your security...” She kept up this nonstop flow of reassurance. The crowd in some areas offering their own praise and encouragement. The cacophony of sound reached a peak as Anna pressed down firmly and Robbie could only let out a muffled scream through the gag as he filled his nappy with a bulky (and endless) supply of crap. “You have been released from guilt... you are reborn... you are a new child to the world.” Anna seemed to be some kind of witch or enchantress, no longer a surgeon or masseur. “Well done Little Robbie, you’ve done what needed to be done.” Her smile so reassuring, her words pleasant on the ear, her figure as she stepped back was awesome. A cheer went up but Robbie was still struggling, his tear filled eyes were streaming because of what had just taken place, the strangled scream, the mess he’d made, the pain and embarrassment... the...” “Robbie sweetheart, Robbie, wake up love...” a voice was whispering from above. He opened his eyes to see in the half-light both parents looking down on him. Somehow he was caught up in the bedding and struggling to detach himself. However, the smell told him that the dream had been more than that. “You’ve been calling out love,” mum tried to soothe her son by gently wiping sweat from his forehead, “and you urgently need a change.” His heart was still beating fast as he slowly came around and just a reassuring hug from mum and an encouraging smile from dad seemed more than enough for him to know where he was. However, a stunned, Robbie was still coming to terms with what had happened and although relieved it was all a dream, knew that his nappy would be in a terrible state. He hoped that all had been contained because he could feel the warm mushy mass and shuddered at what had just taken place. The smell was bad and as dad helped him up he could feel the contents slip down and sag heavily in his bloated disposable. Mum had thrown open the balcony doors and a small breeze rippled in to help defuse the pong. What an awful bizarre dream; so vivid, so precise, so effective... and so, so messy. “Looks like your nappy has had quite a bit to do,” dad observed as he ran his hand over the bloated plastic and gently patted the heavy droop, “but it seems that these tough new pants have done their job”. As mum slowly guided him to the bathroom she nodded to her husband, “Can you get stuff ready for when we’ve finished,” but he’d already started to rearrange the messed up bed and gather things together. Once in the bathroom the real outcome of his dream was released, much of which could be flushed down the toilet but it wasn’t easy. Meanwhile, a shitty bum was being hosed down with the shower and mum could tell it had hit him very hard because of his timidity and the way he kept his eyes downcast throughout the clean-up. Whatever he’d been dreaming about appeared to have had some kind of mental as well as physical impact, she hoped her sweet boy could recover quickly from whatever it was. The nightmare had worried him. Not only because since that afternoon at the disco when Anna changed him, he hadn’t said anything, or had anything to do with her, apart from the occasional nod as they passed one and other, so why was she involved? He’d never felt so childish, and, because of his messed up nappy, thought he’d never needed one more. He was just a... “Don’t worry about it sweetheart,” mum interrupted his thoughts, “we have this covered... we always have this covered.” She was once again soothing his troubled mind, letting him know that all was well, anticipated and manageable. He was carefully cleaned up and wrapped in an even thicker disposable, one of the more childish but more absorbent ones like Anna had changed him into at the disco. With extra padding and a return to his thick clear rubber pants he was soon ready to see the night through in total security. What did mum mean, “we have this covered... we always have this covered”? And why, after that previous dream that seemed so positive, where everybody was so supportive had this one led to such a messy disaster? But her words were hardly registering because, although he was shocked, he recognised the fact that his dream might have contained a message – was he now released from his over-riding guilt or was it a pointer to something else... was he being told to confess all and he’d be relieved of his liability... and why had Anna called him Little Robbie? ~ Of course it wasn’t Anna calling him Little Robbie it was whatever cerebral components go into making a dream. He wondered if in fact he was calling himself ‘Little’ and it had nothing to do with Anna. Over the past few days, especially as he settled into the wonderful and relaxed routine of being on holiday, he’d begun to wonder if being allowed to let himself go and have no distractions, if he really wanted this much easier and less complicated way of being himself. Had being made to wear a nappy simply released him from being too self-conscious. There was no doubt that to begin with being seen wearing one had made him worry about what others might think but now...well...? Once his parents had returned to their room Robbie got up and ventured out onto the balcony. At that time of night the pool was lit but only in certain areas and looked placid and inviting now there was hardly a murmur from anywhere. Apart that is from the low level hum of machinery and generators somewhere within the body of the hotel providing power. He rubbed his hands over the soft pliable surface of his bulging nappy and wondered if he was the only twelve year old in the hotel still required to wear such an outfit. As he sat, trying to see the stars or the lights on distant fishing boats out at sea, he desperately wanted to find a meaning for his dream. He’d never had one that was so detailed or one that he remembered so precisely. Was there a message or was that just him looking for a way to accept his current circumstances? His hands wandered more intently feeling the shape and every curve of his protection, and, after the recent shitty disaster, was grateful to wear it. Maybe that’s what it was about... maybe it wasn’t so much a message as a thing to be thankful for. Just imagine what his bed would have been like had he not been wearing a nappy. He'd reluctantly accepted his parents decision to put him in padding but now wondered if he thought he should wear it. Would guilt build over time and mean that remorse was so overwhelming that future stresses would undoubtedly mean he’d need a nappy more and more? He closed his eyes and drifted off. His mum found him fast asleep on the balcony as the sun was coming up, hand firmly down the front of his wet nappy. She smiled knowingly, grabbed a blanket and wrapped it around their shoulders, so together they drowsily watched the start of a new day in silence. A few distant high clouds reflected the morning’s fresh vibrant colours - it was awesome. ~ tbc ~

Hi Pierry Thomas pretty much leaves the decision making to Claire and that includes the disposable design. She thought they looked cute and like many men, he didn't really have an opinion on them, to him all Robbie's nappies were the same - apart from the fabric ones. Anyway, he didn't react one way or the other to their appearance and like everything else thought that if his wife had decided on them they must be OK. They might have been Pampers but I suspect they were a top quality European brand but perhaps not as well known as Pampers... still, they did the same thing. Thanks for taking an interest... because Robbie seems to like the feel of the 'better' brand. Nappy hugs and such😊 Les

Thanks for all these lovely responses to the story I'm thoroughly enjoying the discussion and I have to say that some of you are spot on with the way it's all going. Although Robbie could do without this 'punishment' he is getting more and more at ease with the situation and learning to cope when things happen. So, despite his parent's desire (well Claire's mainly) to keep him as her 'innocent little boy' he is developing skills based on his nappy wearing. However, does her insistence that he doesn't tell lies mean he will stick to that instruction? Hugs and even more thanks to you all 😉 Les