Lavellan

Max had the 'they aren't toys, they're action figures' talk many many many times before. And somehow he didn't think think Kyle would understand. If he saw him as just a kid brother, odds were it would just seem like immature arguing. He reached down, pulling at the double knotted laces of his shoes. "Fine by me. As long as you make sure the floor is swept so I don't step on any rocks or things." The red and blue shoes were constantly coming untied. And rather than trip and fall and humiliate himself, double knotting would keep them on. Even if it were a pain to untie.

"Sounds fair." Max shrugged and couldn't help but feel he was getting the better end of the deal. Kyle handling everything and only giving him a chore or two? That was easy. "But I have figures you can't touch, okay?" Max piped up and pointed to his shelf on his side of the room. "I'll put them up there and you can't touch them. My trash, my laundry, sure. But not those." He had worked hard on his collection and his younger siblings had broken quite a few 'dolls' as they liked to call them. He couldn't physically stop them, but hopefully it wouldn't be a problem with Kyle.

"I'm not-" Max cut himself off with a sigh and as soon as Kyle's hand was gone, started to try to 'fix' his mop of hair once more. He didn't let his feelings get too hurt at Kyle's comparison. With his size, it came with the territory. People either picked on him, avoided him, or stood up for him because he reminded them of their kid siblings. "Okay, rules." Max nodded.

"Wait wha-" Max spluttered at the diss to his own size. But in a way, Kyle was right. Max did tell him to protect him. And he didn't want to fight or argue with Kyle if they were going to stay in the same room together. He didn't like the term 'man of the house', but let it slide. Kyle was a family man, after all. Max assumed maybe he didn't mean it in the traditional sense. Max assumed he meant it in the 'shot-caller' kind of way. And when it came to sharing a dorm room, there wasn't many ways Kyle could screw it up. Parties were forbidden in rooms, Kyle already agreed to protect him, what more could he do? "Fine. You can be the decider if it makes you feel better." Max finally agreed.

Max couldn't help the feeling of jealousy radiating inside him as Kyle spoke. He wished he could be as big as Kyle. Or even just an average size. His mom still made him use the kids discount as restaurants for god's sake! "Yeah...crazy. I'm 19, so technically I'm your elder." He made sure to be only slightly smug.

"...Suuuure." Max agreed slowly, eyes squinting suspiciously. "Although, I don't like how you keep calling me little. We're both freshmen. We can't be that far apart in age. Like, what? A few months?" 'Family' with someone he had just met was a little odd, but Max could assume it had something to do with Kyle being homesick already from his aforementioned 'big family'. (Heading to bed for the night ?)

In Max's mind, it seemed as though Kyler were offering to be a bodyguard. Which, Max was not gonna complain about at all. That's exactly what he had been wanting. "That's fine with me." He agreed with a nod. His first day in the dorms an he already had protection. This semester will be great, he thought smugly.

Max hesitated slightly, stepping back to sit down on his bed again. "Ground rules...yeah....How about, I stay on my side and you stay on yours. I keep my side clean, you do the same to yours." He offered. He wasn't sure how to feel at Kyle claiming they would have some sort of "relationship". A partnership, maybe. Perhaps a friendship. But relationship?

"Of course I have! I'm not a little kid!" Max balked, but didn't mention how those times were at summer camp before most of his peers hit puberty so he hadn't been too out of place. But as he craned his neck back to look up at Kyle, an idea started to form in his head. In his mind, there was no way Kyle could be so fit and smart at the same time. Perhaps he could use that to his advantage. "Tell you what, if you keep the rest of the students from picking on me for my size, I can help you with your homework."

At Kyle's softer approach, Max couldn't help but feel like a bit of an asshole. Sure, he had been misjudged, but Kyle hadn't meant it with any malice. At least, it seemed that way. Max had been so used to judgement that it was reflex at this to defend himself. "I get it. I'm smaller. Trust me I've noticed." Max sighed as he reached a hand out to shake Kyle's. "But I'm a student. I've done the work and made the grades to be here. I'm no child. Got it?" He said even as his entire hand could fit in Kyle's palm.

Max sat up quickly as the door opened. He had to keep his jaw from dropping as man who practically had to duck in the doorway stepped into the room. Of course, there was part of him that was intimidated. The new arrival could easily bench press him. His mood did not improve as the newcomer immediately assumed he was a child. Face reddening in anger and shame, Max glared. "Actually, I am your roommate." The small boy slid off the mattress to stand at his full and unimpressive height. His hair was a light brown shade that fell over his forehead in a disheveled mop. Max crossed his arms over his chest. "My name's Max. Who are you?" His tone was disrespectful, but in his mind, this jock started it first.

Max huffed and puffed as he set the last of his things on the side of the room he claimed. He hadn't had much to bring, but he had also never been very strong, to his own chagrin. It seemed like he drew the short stick when it came to genes. While his peers had reached their own growth spurts and developed into more "adult-like" figures, he had barely grown. Max stood at a modest 4' 7" tall, not even close to 100lbs soaking wet with no ability to grow facial hair of his own. He was 19 and the oldest of his siblings, but looked like the youngest. His appearance caused him to be quite the subject of ridicule as a child. So much so that he steered clear of sports and other physical activities and instead focused on his studies. Max was smart. But he was also "wimpy" and a "weakling". He was looking forward to college being different. More mature. He was older for a freshman, but his birthday fell in the most awkward spot that most people assumed he failed a year. Max's first obstacle had been moving in. And that now completed, he took a moment to sit on the bed he had claimed and catch his breath. He had made it to the room first and was happy to have first pick of the beds. Now, all that was left was unpacking and waiting to meet his roommate.

I'm honestly so happy about how well I relate to my new roomie. Today we both woke up before noon which is a plus for us. We ate cereal on the couch before going to the mall and getting house decor. He even bought a chinese cook book because I wanted to try making dumplings soon. Went to get groceries, grabbed lunch, and came home to set up our things and eat. I fell asleep on the couch and he turned the television down for me. Even put my glasses away so they wouldn't break. We have a party to go to tonight but we're also talking about cleaning a little for his parents to come see the new place tomorrow too. Having a great day!

Me and my siblings were in the local Blockbuster every weekend! We'd each get one movie and then our parents would let us have one horror movie. Our Blockbuster was right next to a Walmart and we'd go next door to get ice cream and sodas as well. I miss those days!

I just got out of a bad roommate situation where she smoked almost constantly in her room. I had thought that would at least contain the smell, but I was completely mortified when I would bring friends over and they would point out how bad it was. Not to mention the smell sticking to my CLOTHES! I ended getting lectured by my grampa because I tried to hug him while smelling like cigarettes. He kicked the habit 50 or so years ago and was absolutely LIVID to think I would fall for it. Especially with my asthma. Thankfully, he calmed down when I explained the situation. ? I believe I would pass out if I ever saw something like that photo IRL. ?

Yup! Her own little guy is off visiting family and she's taken the time to have a new crib delivered as a surprise. The next chapter explains a little better and gives more details, but that's the jist I was implying. ?

From Tenant to Baby: CH 5 Derek held him tightly until he had no more tears left to cry. When he ran out of soft spoken words, he let his hold do the talking. As the tears petered off, Jordan felt Derek’s hands petting from the back of his neck to the base of his spine. The other arm held him firmly around the waist. “Feeling beter, bud?” Derek muttered gently, not pulling away. “N-Not really.” Jordan admitted pitifully. While the hug was nice, it did nothing to solve his conundrum. “I’ve worked so hard. I don’t know what to do anymore. I’ve been waiting for a year and a half for a promotion and now Trevor has basically admitted to me that I won’t get one…” Derek sighed, just barely pulling away enough to take a seat at the table before pulling Jordan close again. Jordan leaned forward from his chair, pressing most of his weight against Derek who took it all easily. “It sounds like your boss is a real- Pardon my french, asshole.” The curse coming from Derek was so unexpected it startled a chuckle from Jordan, but Derek continued. “I’ve seen your work ethic first hand, and for them to take something like that for granted shows they don’t know how to run a business.” “You have no idea…” “...I have an idea, actually,” Derek smirked, pulling away just slightly. “You’re off the next few days, aren’t you?” He asked. Confusion coloring his face, Jordan nodded. “Yeah? Why?” “Well,” Derek’s smirk grew into a wide smile. “I happen to have a need for an assistant. I’ve managed fine on my own, but it’d be easier for me to have someone else running behind the scenes. And also, an extra set of hands in the workshop.” “...Are…Are you offering me a job?” Jordan asked, incredulously. “You don’t have to accept now. We could use the next few days as a demo of sorts, and then afterward you can decide if you want to accept the position or continue working at FlixWorld.” Jordan’s jaw dropped. He honestly didn’t know what to say. “Wha- Are you serious?” “As a heart attack.” Derek stood slowly, giving Jordan time to return to his seat. “I’m gonna pop our breakfast in the microwave real fast. Think about my offer and if you accept, I have a job for us to handle this morning.” There was no reason for Jordan not to accept the offer, he realized. Of course, there was the underlying feeling that Derek was offering because he felt obligated to help him, but Jordan’s better sense came out to push the thought away. Derek had made it clear that he wouldn’t offer if he didn’t want to do anything. They were friends. Yes, Derek was his landlord, but Derek had said upon their first meeting that he didn’t need the money that came from Jordan’s rent. They would have to discuss specifics, of course. But Jordan thought anything would be better than FlixWorld. And he trusted Derek not to put him into situations where he felt humiliated or overworked like Trevor often did. Derek soon returned with their omelets reheated. He set the plates down in their usual spots and took a crinkling plastic case and popped it open. From the smell that immediately wafted from the package, Jordan could tell that they were baby wipes. Derek was casual as he lifted Jordan’s head by his chin and started to dab the cold wipe across his cheeks. Jordan’s nose crinkled at the cold feeling, but he stayed still. “There we go,” Derek muttered cheerfully. “All better and ready for the day.” He ruffled Jordan’s sleep-disheveled hair with a soft look in his eye that made Jordan feel like he was still wrapped in the older man’s hug. “Thank you,” Jordan mumbled, clearing his throat as his voice cracked. The omelet was amazing even though it had been reheated. Jordan finished his in-record timing with Derek right on his heels. However, Jordan made sure to stand first and gather their plates and glasses to clean up. “I got it,” He smiled in reassurance as Derek went to protest. “Least I can do.” Derek leaned back in his chair staring at Jordan as if he was the one who cooked the meal and offered him a job. Shaking off the feeling of surreality, Jordan did his part by rinsing their plates, loading the dishwasher, and cleaning up the kitchen from the meal prep. When he was finished, Derek appeared from the hallway behind him dressed in casual clothes rather than sleepwear. “So…Have you thought about my offer?” Jordan nodded, nervously playing with the sleeves of the borrowed pajamas. “I have and…I want to give it a try. You’ve done so much for me, and I want to assist you the best I can. I don’t know much about woodworking or babysitting, but I can learn quickly.” The smile Derek gave him was blinding. “That’s so great to hear. If you had nothing else to do today, I have a delivery and assembly job to do. You can tag along and lend a hand? It’s an old friend of mine, but she lives a couple of hours out of town.” “Yeah, sounds great.” Jordan agreed readily. “Good. I’ll start loading the truck and you can run up to your place and change and grab any books or games for the ride, okay?” Jordan nodded once more. “I’ll make sure to bring back the pajamas tonight.” But Derek waved his hand dismissively, seemingly entirely unbothered. “I’m not too worried about it.” It was a bit strange putting on his work shoes with the childish pajamas, but the only person around to see was Derek. And Derek was gathering his things for the drive. Jordan walked back to his unit and it was only as he was taking the pajamas off that he realized he was still wearing the pull-up from the night before. It wasn’t wet due to his rude awakening from his phone in the middle of the night. And this time, Jordan was actually able to look at himself in the mirror. He expected to look ridiculous, after all, he was an adult wearing a pull-up. But with the childish pajamas and the redness in his cheeks from his crying fit earlier, it looked oddly appropriate. He couldn’t help but think about the long drive ahead. If they arrived at the delivery spot on time, assembled whatever it was quick, and left, they would probably stop for lunch before coming back. This would mean Jordan would most likely fall asleep in the car on the way back with a full stomach…wetting himself in a bed with a mattress protector on it was one thing. But Jordan really didn’t think he could take the humiliation if he wet himself all over Derek’s truck seat… A sigh escaped him as he pulled his underwear on over the pull-up again and proceeded to get dressed in lightly faded jeans and a simple t-shirt. He brushed his teeth and hair quickly. He checked in the mirror one final time, pleased with the fact that the pull-up was pretty much unnoticeable under his pants. He would have to run and grab his phone from Derek’s table, but before he walked out, he grabbed the backpack he used for class. Maybe on the way there, he could take some notes.Walking back down the stairs, he saw Derek looping some straps over a bunch of wooden pieces in the bed of his truck. Upon seeing him, Derek smiled. “Ready to go?” “Yeah, I just need to grab my phone from your place.” “No need, it’s already in the truck. Get buckled in and I’ll close up in here.” Derek thought of everything, and Jordan smiled. Climbing into the cabin of Derek’s truck, Jordan sat his backpack between his knees on the floorboard. His phone was on the center console and as he unlocked it, he was met with the disastrous email that caused his episode that morning once more. This time, however, he didn’t let it bother him. Instead, he clicked out and sent a small ‘Don’t worry about it’ text to Whitney. It wasn’t long before Derek hopped into the front seat and buckled his seat belt, prompting Jordan to do the same. Derek cranked the truck and turned, heading down the driveway. “So, any questions about what you’d be doing as my assistant?” “I assume, managing appointments for your babysitting job. And then…I don’t know, fetching tools for you in the workshop?” Jordan shrugged. Derek laughed as they pulled onto the main road. “You’re not wrong, although I’d consider those secondary duties for when you have extra time. But I have to admit, I’m a bit technologically challenged. So I have the old paper and pen catalogs and files…” “Oh, you want me to convert them digitally?” Jordan perked up. “Yeah, it would make it easier to share visit overviews with mommies and daddies. Plus, sharing info on their little ones.” They talked more about the job duties, and Jordan was pretty much on board already. “Now, as for hours and pay, forgive me if I overstep,” Derek said momentarily taking his eyes off the road at a red light. “But what were you making at FlixWorld?” “Ah, don’t worry, it’s fine.” Jordan shrugged. “I make about 9 dollars an hour after taxes. They usually schedule me for 30-35 hours a week…” Derek’s eyes widened comically. “Really? Did you at least get benefits?” “Uh…no? Part-time workers didn’t get any benefits.” “That’s terrible!” Derek looked like he wanted to say more. But shook his head. “Well,” He heaved a heavy sigh. “Your priority should be as a student. So, working for me, I would only expect about 25 hours a week for 12 dollars an hour. Don’t worry about rent anymore either. It wouldn’t make sense for me to charge you and pay you.” Jordan resisted telling Derek about how they would have to pay 5 dollars a month if they wanted to ‘rent’ a locker at FlixWorld for their stuff. He wasn’t wanting to upset the man. But doing the math in his head, 12 dollars an hour would more than make up for the cut in hours AND free rent? It was amazing. “That’s…great actually. That’s amazing.” Derek’s pinched look melted into a soft grin. “I take care of my workers. I don’t feel that I need to make a schedule for you either. So just come down and you can work in my office for a few hours, take a break and eat some lunch (odds are I’d cook for you anyway), and work a little more before ‘clocking out’.” “Sounds fair.” Jordan practically buzzed in his seat. “Good, occasionally, I’d like for you to come with me on these deliveries to meet the client and to help me with assembly. Only if you had nothing else to do that day.” Derek assured. “Your classes should come first.” “You’re very school-minded,” Jordan noted. “Well…to be honest, I never had the chance to finish college.” Derek shrugged. “I ended up dropping out to take care of my mother in her final years and then I worked in a woodworking shop until I built up my skills. Branched off with my ‘babysitting service’ and here we are. But I don’t want anyone to feel as if they have no other choice than to drop out. If they find that college isn’t for them, that’s one thing. But I don’t think anyone should be forced to.” Jordan blinked at such honestly, but he guessed he should have expected it. Derek was such an open and caring person when it came to others, being open about himself was no exception. “That’s really cool of you. A lot of people would be bitter if they were in your situation, but you’re, like, the opposite.” “It’s a quality,” Derek said even as his cheeks reddened slightly. They sat in comfortable silence for a while, Jordan even managing to take out a notebook and take notes on market trends. Jordan eventually grew lost in the assignment, only really stirring as they pulled into a drive-thru and he had to hold his notebook to keep it from falling off his lap. “Sorry,” Derek winced. “I need another coffee. Do you want anything?” Looking over to peer out of Derek’s window, Jordan browsed the menu. “I’ll take something sweet…Hm…not sure what…” Derek pulled up to the speaker, ordering an Irish Sweet Cream Cold Brew. The cashier noted it down and asked if that were all. “Do you have any recommendations for a sweet drink? Something the young kids like.” Jordan couldn’t help but snicker as Derek called him a young kid. It was true, there was a decent age gap between the two of them, but Jordan didn’t think it mattered too much. “Our peppermint hot cocoa is our best seller around this time of year for the kiddos.” She responded cheerfully. “Ooo, that sounds good,” Jordan instantly agreed. “A large one of those, please,” Derek ordered immediately. Pretty soon, the two of them were on the road once more. Only, Jordan was carefully sipping his cocoa, occasionally licking the sweet whipped cream from his lips. “I should be more careful,” Derek mused, a small smirk pulling at his lips. “Too much sugar and you might run up the walls.” A scoff broke from Jordan. “As if. I’m a working boy. I need all the energy I can get.” “Good thing Mel has a large backyard.” That was all Derek said, continuing to drive. ‘Mel’s home was more secluded than Derek’s. The entrance of which was almost completely obscured by a crop of tall trees that swayed in the gentle breeze. The sound of the truck making its way down the winding driveway must have alerted the resident of the modest cabin-style home. As Derek parked, a tall, blonde woman stepped out on the porch. She wore a comfy looking sundress and Jordan couldn’t help but compare her to a southern Belle housewife stereotype. Her southern drawl of a voice did nothing to assuage his assumption. “Oh! Derek, you are a sight for sore eyes!” She called out, hurrying down the porch steps to engulf Derek in a hug. “You really need to come to see me more often.” “Last time I checked, Missy Mel, your vehicle worked just as well as mine,” Derek smarted off, but was interrupted by his own ‘EEP!’ sound as Mel pinched his side when pulling out of their hug. “Don’t be rude!” She scolded before turning her attention to Jordan. Jordan, for his part, was standing awkwardly at the side of the truck, not quite sure what he was supposed to be doing. Her eyes scanned over him with an interest Jordan couldn’t place. “I see you brought me a little helper!” Jordan half expected a hug as well as she approached, but her hands reached up to cup his cheeks, tilting his head just slightly to look up at her. “And he’s cute as a button.” She fawned. “Thank- Thank you, ma’am?” Jordan hesitantly replied. Derek’s shoes crunched across the gravel as he approached as well. “Actually, Mel, he’s my little helper. Someone has to hold the crib in place for me while I screw in the frame.” “Don’t listen to him,” Mel gave a conspiratory whisper. “We’re gonna let the big man handle all the tools and you’re gonna help me make some fresh lemonade and bake cookies.” “Uh- I should probably help him. He is my boss…” Jordan hated having to burst her bubble, but Derek brought him for a reason. It would be rude to leave him hanging. Mel didn’t seem bothered. “Fine. Fine. Just remember,” She warned, finally letting him go. “Technically, am your boss’ boss at the moment. And I happen to be suffering from empty-nest syndrome while my baby visits family. You can’t be blamed if my fragile heart demands a sweet baby boy to coo over.” Derek shook his head, seemingly well versed in the dramatics of Mel. “Jordan, please grab my tool bag and the box from the backseat.” Eager to follow orders, Jordan went to the backseat to grab the expected items. The tool bag was slung over his shoulder as he used two hands to carry the relatively light, but large box. Derek dropped the tailgate of the truck open to grab the first piece. “Mel, mind showing him to the nursery?” “On it!” Mel smiled, waving Jordan up the porch steps and holding the door open for him. The interior was slightly less rustic than Jordan expected it to be, the air smelling faintly of cinnamon. “Right this way, honey.” Mel led him to said nursery and Jordan’s eyes widened. It was like something out of a catalog. The walls were a nice soft green that was complimented by the view of the lush greenery outside. A flowerbox just outside the window held a tray of succulents planted in pea gravel. There was no crib, but they would be building that, of course. There was a large sturdy charging table along one wall that Jordan was sure would even hold his weight, a cream colored pad on top. There were framed photos of cartoon animals all along the walls and a rounded chest of toys stuffed in one corner. Finally, a large padded rocking chair sat beside what Jordan assumed to be a closet door. He put the box down where Mel directed right as Derek came in with the first piece. The stain on the wood of the crib matched both the chair and the changing table, Jordan noted. “Alrighty, let’s get this show on the road,” Derek said as he put the first piece down. A/N: A little bit of a life-update. My crisis has resolved itself remarkably well. I've 90% moved into my new place, my new place is 100x better than my old one, my new roommate is so sweet to me. I thank everyone for their well wishes. I didn't have to take as long as a break as I had though I would, which is a blessing. I love writing, especially abdl stories. It's my own outlet and not having to stop is doing wonders for my sanity. I hope you all enjoy this chapter and enjoy how the story is shaping. Your reactions are the best and it really brings a smile to my face to read them ❤️

I appreciate your worry. I have a few people I've told the specifics and they've all offered to help in anyway they can. I'm tentatively optimistic about the future right now though. Without going into detail, my living situation was a bit rocky due to some recent betrayal. I thought I would have to couch surf for a few weeks but, good news, I was just given a move in date for a really nice place on Monday. So things are looking up. I thank everyone for hanging around and wishing me well ?

From Tenant to Baby: CH 4 Jordan was NOT going to sneak into Derek’s house to wash his pissed-on sheets, he decided. Not only was that a crime, but it would ruin any kind of trust the two had for each other. So, he instead balled up the dirty sheets and blankets and shoved them at the very bottom of his dirty clothes basket. There was a wet patch on the mattress that he tried to spray and dab up as best as he could before he showered. His own wet clothes went on top of the sheets. Taking a spare blanket from his closet and his pillow from the bed, Jordan went to sleep on his couch for the rest of the night. The theater event would require his full attention. He had to be on top of his game. The next morning he woke and quickly loaded his basket of laundry into his car before Derek could see and offer his washer again. He drove a bit farther than his usual laundromat and chose the washer in the far back corner. He didn’t have much time to waste as he rushed through washing and drying the sheets and went back home. With the basket in his arms, Jordan rushed up the stairs into his unit even as he heard the sounds of a drill in the workshop below. “Jordan?” A voice called after him as the drilling stopped. “Hey, Derek!” Jordan shouted down. The basket was thrown off to the side. He had no time to make his bed if he wanted to grab a coffee before his shift. “Sorry, I can’t talk right now. I have that event today!” “Oh, that’s today?” Derek noted as Jordan threw on his uniform frantically. Thankfully, his hat covered his short brown hair so he did not need to style it. “Yep! And I have to go in early to help set up.” Jordan grabbed his keys and wallet and nearly tripped down the stairs on the way back down. Only Derek’s firm grip on his arm at the bottom of the stairs saved him. “Woah there, slow down, kiddo. The theater will still be there when you get there.” Derek chuckled and Jordan would usually love the chance to chat but he really couldn’t. Reflexively, he leaned over and wrapped his arms around Derek’s waist in a quick hug. “Sorry! I gotta run.” It was only as he was pulling down the driveway that he realized he had hugged Derek so casually. As if they were best friends or even family. It had just been instinct, like saying “Love you, bye” when hanging up the phone. Face stained red from mortification, Jordan peeked into the rearview mirror. He could see Derek leaning against the outside door of the workshop, a small smile on his face with his arms crossed over his chest. And Jordan pushed the embarrassment away to deal with later like every other inconvenience of that morning. The theater was bustling as Jordan made his way inside. Managers ran around with clipboards while concessionists were filling all the displays with freshly popped popcorn. Jordan had barely made it inside before someone was calling his name. “Jordan! The ticket printer is jammed!” “Jordan I can’t find the other box of Sour Worms!” “Jordan, what time is the first showing?” Jordan wasn’t able to stop from the moment he set foot in the building. If it wasn’t one thing, it was another. The delivery team was out of bags, the slushie machines needed more syrup, and nobody could find Dustin. And the first showing hadn’t even started yet. The managers for their part were doing their best. Merchandise was stocked expertly, the token machine in the arcade was refilled, and every station had at least three radios. Guests were already arriving and Jordan gave them all his best smile as he directed them to their theater. “Please let us know if there is anything else we can do to make your entertainment experience out of this world!” He gave the slogan of the theater before ducking back into the hall. Whitney, the lead floor manager, made a beeline for him as soon as she spotted him. “Jordan! Thank god. I need you to help me move a banner in front of theater 12.” Jordan sighed, but did as she asked. The banner wasn’t heavy, just awkward to move. And as it settled back into its stand, Whitney patted him on the back. “Thanks! Everyone’s running around like headless chickens, it’s hard to find any help right now.” “Well, things would be easier if we had an event manager.” Jordan reminded. “Has Trevor told you guys about it at all?” Whitney brought her clipboard up to cover her smile. “Maaaaybe.” She teased. “But I’m not allowed to say much.” Jordan gave her his best pout. “Whitney, c’mon. I’ve been working my fingers to the bone for days on this event because I thought it would give me an advantage.” She threw her hands up in an exaggerated shrug. “All I can say is that they’ve narrowed down the pool to two candidates…and you might be one of them. But you didn’t hear that from me.” She placed her finger over her lips in a ‘shush’ gesture. “My lips are sealed.” Jordan agreed, feeling excitement shoot through his veins. “If it were up to me, I would have given you the position months ago. But you know how Trevor is-” Speaking of Trevor, the man, the myth, the legend himself appeared from around the corner, swaggering down the hall. His eyes tracked over the halls until they landed on the two of them. “Ah! There you kids are. Jordan, come with me. I have a task for you.” Inwardly, Jordan groaned. Trevor’s tasks were always unreasonably difficult. But outwardly, Jordan smiled. “Sure, what do you have for me?” “That’s what I like to hear!” _____________ 6 hours into his shift, Jordan was exhausted, but finally able to have a break. Things weren’t seconds away from collapsing which allowed him to rush off to the bathroom. His bladder had been steadily filling due to the quick sips of a soda he had stashed under the ticket podium. He had been doing a potty dance for the past hour already. After washing and drying his hands, he took a moment to pull out his phone. Besides the usual notifications from social media, and Joseph sending him memes, there was a new text. From Derek. ‘Hey, kiddo. I’m sure you’re busy working right now but I’m in the area and was wondering if you wanted some of this baked mac and cheese I made. I know you have work up to your ears, but surely they’d give you a lunch (dinner?) break?’ Jordan’s stomach growled immediately. He had nothing but caffeine-filled liquids all day and had been planning on snacking on some free employee popcorn, but to have actual food made him almost salivate. ‘Omg u r amazing. I’m actually on my break right now if ur still around?’ He stood in the bathroom for only a minute before he received a reply. ‘I’ll be there in 5. Do you want to sit in my car while you eat or is there a breakroom?’ ‘I wouldn’t want to be a bother…’ There was a breakroom. But it was pretty small and the tables were always vaguely sticky… ‘Nonsense. I’ll park in the back.’ 5 minutes later, Jordan watched as Derek’s car pulled into one of the parking spaces near the back door. Jordan could immediately smell the mac and cheese as soon as he climbed into the car, causing his stomach to growl once more. “Sorry,” He apologized. “Just been too busy to eat today.” Derek handed over a Tupperware container that was perfectly warm to the touch and a small plastic fork. But his face pinched. “Kiddo, that’s no good. It’s important to eat at least twice a day. Especially with a job that keeps you on your feet.” Jordan looked at his lap, properly scolded as he popped the lid off the container and scooped in a bite. “I know…Jus’ been busy. I really hope I get this promotion.” The mac and cheese was heavenly in his mouth, even with the scolding. “It’s okay, buddy,” Derek assured, passing over a chilled bottle of water. “It’s mostly just the mother hen in me. It makes me a worry-wart.” “No harm. Jus’ makes you really good with kids, right?” Jordan suggested in between bites. “I supposed that’s true.” But Derek was smiling as he watched Jordan enjoy the meal. “Do you stay late tonight?” Jordan waved his hand in a so-so gesture. “Til 10. That’s when the last show starts. And then I’m off the next few days.” “Ah,” Derek smiled. “That’s good then…planning on sleeping in?” A fervent nod. “As much as possible.” Derek laughed, a warm, soothing sound as Jordan ate. “Staying caught up in school?” “Yeah, it hasn’t gotten too crazy yet. It’ll really help if I can get the promotion, though.” Jordan reiterated. “Better pay, fewer hours, gives me more time to study for exams.” “Well, I filled out one of those customer surveys on the receipt and I made sure to mention you by name. So, hopefully, that helps.” “Aw, you did?” Jordan was touched that Derek would go out of his way for that. But he shouldn’t be too surprised. Derek was just a great guy in general. “Of course. Good work deserved to be rewarded.” Derek clasped him on the shoulder and Jordan found his face heating up. It was then that his phone started to ring loudly. Checking the caller ID, he saw Trevor’s name and pressed answer with confusion. “Hello?” ‘Jordan where the heck are you?!’ Jordan winced. “I’m out back on my break. Why what’s up?” ‘Break? I didn’t authorize that. Get back in here, we need someone to seat theater 6!’ “Can’t Dustin do it? He got back when I left.” ‘Excuse me?’ Jordan froze, realizing how dangerous it was to question Trevor today of all days. “Sorry. I’ll head back in right now.” ‘See to it that you do.’ The line beeped in his ear and Jordan regretfully put his half-eaten meal on the center console. “Sorry,” He repeated for Derek. “I’ve been called back in. It was really good though. Thank you for bringing me lunch- Or dinner, I guess.” “Come by my place when you get off and I’ll have more ready. You need a good meal.” Derek said, garnering no argument. Jordan scrambled back inside, seeing Trevor standing by theater 6, smiling at customers as he checked their tickets. As soon as Jordan met his eye, Jordan knew he needed to be on his best behavior. Trevor had been known to enact punishments in the smallest, pettiest ways. “Hello,” Jordan greeted the guests approaching with a forced smile. “Can I offer to help you two ladies to your seats?” The two elderly women giggled at each other before nodding. “That would be lovely.” One of them nodded and took Jordan’s arm as he offered it. Trevor took the chance to walk off, dipping into the managers’ office. Jordan only hoped he wouldn’t be in too much trouble. _________ Jordan was dead on his feet as he got out of his car. Part of him thought about going up to his unit and just flopping into bed, but he could see that Derek’s lights were on the inside. Part of Jordan felt guilty at just the idea of leaving Derek waiting for him. So, He tossed off his hat and shuffled up to the door. Three gentle knocks and not a moment later, the door was swinging open. “Come on in,” Derek coaxed, leading Jordan directly to the bar with a hand on his back. Jordan soon found a bowl of mac and cheese placed in front of him along with a cup of juice. “If you’re still hungry, there’s plenty left over. Or you can take a shower and change into some jim-jams.” Jordan groaned at both the thought of a hot shower and the delicious food. “God I need that.” “It’s ready when you are.” ________ Later, as Jordan pulled up the sleeve of yet another set of oversized pajamas, he whispered. “I really should just go home.” “I won’t stop you, but I’m curious as to why,” Derek admitted while he turned down the duvet in the spare room. “What if it happens again?” Derek wasn’t aware of his accident last night, But Jordan didn’t think he could handle it happening again. Derek pulled him into a gentle hug, allowing the student to melt against him. “I’ve dealt with accidents plenty of time. I have solutions. But-” Derek pulled away and tilted Jordan’s chin up to meet his eyes. “If you just want to chance it, that’s okay. If you have an accident we can just wash the sheets.” “...What solutions?” A small smile pulled at Derek’s lips. “I’ll be right back.” Jordan sat on the edge of the bed and relaxed backward to lie down. But it wasn’t long before Derek was returning with several things in his hands. “Now, you don’t have to do anything you’re uncomfortable with.” He reminded as he started to lay things out. The first thing that caught Jordan’s attention was the pull-up. It was folded up, at first he thought it to be a diaper, but there were elastic sides instead of plastic tapes. Beside it, was a large pad with a corded speaker hooked up to it. The last option looked something similar to a dog piddle pad. “These are night padding,” Derek pointed to the pull-up. “You can wear it and throw it in the trash in the morning. You don’t even have to tell me if you're wet. Just tie the trash bag and throw it in the kitchen garbage. I’ll take it all out in the morning, anyway.” He points to the speaker pad. “A moisture censor to wake you up and remind you to go to the bathroom. I wouldn’t recommend it. It disrupts sleep.” Finally, he motioned to the piddle pad. “Something to protect the sheets. There’s still a chance for a leak, but it can work.” Jordan’s lip poked out in a small pout. He was just exhausted. Part of him didn’t even want to make this choice. It was mostly just a choice of how willing he was to chance ruining Derek’s sheets again. Looking up at Derek, Derek seemed to understand. He reached over and grabbed the pull-up from the bed before handing it to Jordan. “I’ll put everything else away while you change. Climb into bed and I’ll come tuck you in.” The pull-up was weird, was the first note Jordan had. It slipped up his legs much like underwear and settled over his hips. But the elastic sides squeezed his hips securely, letting him know there would be no leaks. There was no mirror in the room for Jordan to see if he looked as ridiculous as he felt…Jordan pulled his underwear up and over the pull-up. It crinkled loudly causing his face to heat up. The pajama bottoms were next and by the time he was crawling into bed, Derek gave a couple of knocks on the door. “Ready, kiddo?” He asked through the door. “Yeah…” Derek came in with his same gentle smile. “It fit alright?” He asked, helping Jordan pull the duvet up to his chin. Jordan could only manage a small nod. “Good.” Jordan watched as Derek pulled out his phone from his back pocket. “Left it on the counter,” Derek explained as he connected it to the charger on the nightstand. “Do you want me to read to you again?” “M'kay tonight…Thank you though.” “Anytime.” Derek’s hands were gentle as they tucked the duvet around Jordan, making him feel ensconced in its warm softness. “Alrighty, phone charging, jim-jams on, snug as a bug in a rug, anything I’m missing?” “That’s everything I think-” “Ah! I know what I’m missing.” Derek interrupted as he leaned over Jordan. His lips pressed against Jordan’s forehead, giving him a delicate kiss. As he pulled away, Jordan had to fight to keep from squirming and ruining Derek’s perfect tuck. “Every sleepy boy needs a goodnight kiss.” Jordan was speechless as he watched Derek walk to the door and flick off the light which revealed a small, bee-shaped night light plugged in by the door. “Sleep tight, kiddo.” He said before closing the door mostly, only leaving it just a bit a jar. From his position, Jordan could just barely make out the bathroom light peeking from under the door. “G’night…” Jordan whispered after him, finding it hard to stay awake as his eyelids grew heavier. The sleepy haze came and carted him off into a dreamless sleep. Just the feeling of peace and rest… ________ Something was buzzing. Constantly. It was getting on Jordan’s nerves. Sleep-heavy eyes cracking open, Jordan whined in the back of his throat. Who in the world was making that noise? Blinking and focusing his eyes, Jordan saw a wash of light on the ceiling. Looking over, he saw it was coming from his phone. He hated ruining the snugly tucked duvet, but he needed an arm free to reach for said device. The screen was bright in his eyes as he scowled at it. His finger was deftly pressed against the sensor on the back to unlock the phone with his fingerprint. As the screen unlocked, he could see several icons coming from his texting app. However, before he could read the onslaught of messages, something else demanded his attention. Apparently, he had woken up right before his bladder had a chance to release itself. But it demanded he goes to the bathroom now. Whimpering, Jordan threw the duvet off and dropped his phone back onto the nightstand. His feet shuffled against the soft carpet as he made his way into the hall. Most of the house was dark except for a light on in the kitchen and the light in the bathroom. Jordan stood in front of the toilet, pushing both his underwear and pull-up down just in time for his bladder to give, shooting a strong stream into the toilet bowl. He promised himself then that he would lay off all the soda at work. It couldn’t be good for his health, but also could have been a factor in his sudden bedwetting. By the time he had washed his hands and gone back to the guest room, he had lost all interest in seeing what had caused his messages to explode. That was a problem for future Jordan. Instead, he flopped back onto the mattress, burying himself under the duvet. The secure tuck wouldn’t be achieved again, but Jordan was still tired enough to fall asleep in moments. ________ The next morning, Jordan woke up to a dry pull-up and the sounds of cooking in the kitchen. He couldn’t help but smile, feeling more rested than he had since the last time he spent the night at Derek’s. He stretched, languishing in the way the tension leaked out of his muscles leaving him a pile of limp noodles. Finally, as he heard Derek starting to pull plates from the cabinet, he motivated himself to get up. Jordan made sure to grab his phone from the nightstand, absent-mindedly unlocking it as he walked into the living area. “G’morning, Derek,” He said, smiling shyly. Derek looked over his shoulder at the approaching boy, a smile of his own stretching across his face. “Good morning, buddy. I was just about to come to wake you. Go claim a seat at the table and I’ll bring your breakfast in a sec.” Not needing to be told twice, Jordan took his usual seat to the left of the head of the table. He brought his phone up to his face and opened his messages. ‘I’m so sorry, Jordan.’ Whitney texted. Sorry for what? The next few came from the few group chat he was in for the various stations at the theater. Concessioneers ;3 ‘OMG HIM?!’ ‘What is Trevor thinking?’ ‘We’re not gonna make it a week I swear.’ ‘I feel so bad for Jordan. Do you think he’s seen yet?’ Box Baybees ‘Bro you have got to be joking’ ‘It’s not even April why’s Trevor pulling jokes’ ‘He really chose the mfer who can’t remember the code to the janitor closets?’ Ushers Ushers Ushers Aw Man ‘...’ ‘I can’t.’ ‘Guess who just put in their two-week notice!’ ‘I am right behind you’ Feeling dread pooling into his stomach, Jordan arrived at two emails from Trevor. One email was a general announcement addressed to the entire staff, and one was to him personally. ‘I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of you for your hard work during the event last night. You all were awesome. I’m still getting praise from the guests. I realize this email comes at a late hour, but I wanted to make a small announcement in the wake of such a successful event. As you all know, part of the challenges we faced during this event was because of our lack of an Event Manager. The other managers as well as myself have kept our eyes open for likely candidates for this position and I am happy to say, I have made the final choice.’ ‘I would like you all to welcome your newest manager: Dustin Porter. He begins his probationary period starting tomorrow morning and I want you all to be patient as he learns the ropes and respect his authority as it stands. Thank you all again, and have a great night!’ Jordan felt frustration and anger build in his chest. He shared the sentiment of all of his coworkers. He had no idea who was the other candidate this entire time. And to find out it was DUSTIN out of everyone was a stab to the heart. He had trained Dustin. Dustin was the type to disappear for an hour at a time with no note or notice as to where he went. He was irresponsible, he was lazy. Jordan couldn’t think of a WORSE manager. He could vomit, he felt that upset. But even so, he clicked over to the personal email. ‘Jordan, I’m sure you’ve read the other announcement before reading this message and I wanted to touch base with you because I’m sure you feel negative about my decision. It was a tough call, but in the end, I decided to go with the candidate who had the higher customer interaction score. That is the key quality I feel an Event Manager should have. Not only that, but I feel your performance on the sales floor is too valuable to lose. If I were to give you the Event position, it would lower your hours which leaves us short-staffed when it comes to available veteran floor staff. I hope you understand and can respect my choice, as it was my choice as the GM of this location. Let me know if you have any questions, but know the choice has already been made. Your GM, Trevor.’ “Oh, bud, what happened?” The voice shook Jordan from his spot frozen at the table. And only then did he realize tears had started to fall down his cheeks. Derek stood with plates in hand frozen in the entryway to the dining area. Sniffling, Jordan reached up to wipe his tears away with his fist, but the more he wiped them, the more they came. He felt childish for crying about a job position, but he had worked so hard. He felt as if he were a given. Not only him but most of the other staff too. Even the MANAGERS felt like he was going to get the position. Deep down, Jordan knew this was Trevor’s petty revenge for questioning him last night. Lip trembling, Jordan spoke. “I didn’t get the manager position. And-” He took a shuddering breath. “Trevor chose the worst person ever to be the manager. I trained him and he’s still incompetent most of the time.” Jordan’s voice rose in volume but shook heavily. “And he told me I was too valuable on the sales floor to promote.” Derek was quick to put the plates down with a clatter on the table before swooping down and pulling Jordan into a hug. “Oh, buddy. I’m so sorry.” And maybe it was the early hour. Maybe it was the stressful night before. Or maybe it was Derek encouraging the vulnerability, but Jordan found himself sobbing. He felt stupid crying over a promotion. But he had worked hard for months. He had applied for FlixWorld all those years ago because of the opportunity for promotion. But here he was being told he was ‘too good’ to promote. “Baby, it’ll be okay,” Derek tried to encourage, but Jordan just shook his head from where it was buried in his shoulder. “No, it won’t!” A/N: Writing is my outlet and this story is my baby rn. So have a sad chapter while I try to figure my own stuff out.

not an update this story is going on a hiatus for the forseeable future. Just got major life changing bad news so I will not have time to update. sorry

This theater was modeled after the one I worked at when I started writing this story about a year ago. I no longer work there, but we had a position where people could order concessions from their seats/if they didn't want to carry all their snacks to their seat, someone would bring them to 'em. You'd take a large cart, load it up with orders, and go theater to theater. The pager was a bit of an exaggeration. Usually the person running the cart would just have a timer on their phone for when the next theater was finished seating. And at the theater you would be crosstrained for every position. I marketed Jordan as someone who's been in the same job for quite a while so he has a lot of responsibility. Event manager was also an actual position at the theater I worked at. It was brutal ? We shall see :3

From Tenant to Baby: CH 3 Jordan shuffled out of the bathroom and across the hall through the newly opened door. Derek’s room was well-kept and tidy. The only thing that stood out was the chair by the window that held several large stuffed animals. But before Jordan could look further, Derek was walking into the room as well. He had a pair of black-rimmed glasses perched low on his nose and a book tucked under one arm. “Hey, buddy. Those jim-jams fit alright?” He asked softly and Jordan tried in vain to pull the dropping sleeves up his arm. “S’fine,” Jordan shrugged. “Good. Let’s get you back to bed then. It’s much too early for you to be awake,” Derek placed his book at the end of the bed and once more went to pull the duvet back for Jordan. Jordan’s eyes widened comically. “You want me to sleep in your bed?” Derek paused, giving Jordan a confused look. “Of course.” “I can sleep on the couch, though. Or I could go home.” Jordan stressed. “I just- I just wet the bed in your guestroom. And you’re my landlord!” Jordan was quickly working himself up again. What he didn’t expect, however, was a set of gentle arms wrapping around him in a warm secure hold. Jordan could do nothing but lean into Derek’s arms, pitiful tears springing to his eyes. “I’m not letting you walk outside in the dark and cold when I have a perfectly good bed right here. We’re friends, aren’t we? What kind of friend would I be if I let that happen?” Derek rubbed his hands up and down Jordan’s spine soothingly. “Are you afraid that you’ll have another accident?” And just the idea that it might happen again, and not just that but that it also might happen in Derek’s bed made Jordan sniffle. “No, no! I don’t normally do this- I haven’t wet the bed since elementary school, I promise. I don’t-” “Shhh, buddy, no need to work yourself into a fit,” Derek squeezed him just slightly. “I trust you not to have another accident in my bed, okay? But it’s still very early. I want to get you in bed before the sun comes back up. So let’s agree to talk more about this in the morning, and let’s tuck you in.” Jordan felt most of the fight leave his body leaving him pliant for Derek to nudge him onto the mattress. Like before, the duvet was pulled up to his chin. But this time Derek walked around to the other side and settled in, leaning his back against the headboard. The light of the lamp cast a stark shadow over his face as he cracked the book open. “Do you mind if I read out load, kiddo? It might help you sleep.” He offered. “M’kay.” Jordan squeaked, burying his flaming cheeks into the soft pillow that smelled like Derek’s cologne. Jordan doesn’t think he lasted a full page before the exhaustion of his emotions carted him back to sleep. _______ The next time Jordan awoke, he was greeted by the scent of cooking bacon. Yawning and stretching, Jordan slid out of the (thankfully) dry bed and shuffled into the hall. He couldn’t help but stop and peek into the guestroom to surprisingly see the bed fully made as if it hadn’t ever been ruined. Walking into the living room, Jordan could see Derek standing at the stove doing something, presumably cooking. He was humming under his breath that Jordan couldn’t recognize, but Jordan cleared his throat to catch his attention. Derek turned around quickly and a smile bloomed on his face as soon as he saw Jordan. “Good morning, kiddo. I’m making pancakes for breakfast. Do you want orange juice or milk with your food?” For some reason, Jordan didn’t have the energy to argue about Derek cooking for him again. Instead, he made his way to the dining table and sat down. “Can I have orange juice, please?” He asked feeling lighter than he did last night. “You sure can.” Derek smiled softly as he set the hot pan aside and went to the fridge. He grabbed a cup from the cabinet and Jordan could hear him pour it. Derek walked around the counter towards Jordan and it was only as Jordan went to reach for the cup that he realized it wasn’t a cup at all. Well, it was a sippy cup. Derek seemed to realize his own mistake as he held it out to Jordan and he froze. “Oh my-” He cut himself off, pulling the sippy cup back. “I’m sorry, buddy. It’s a force of habit. My little ones always start the day with an orange juice sippy…” A red flush sprouted up from his neck. “I’m not making fun of you or anything, I promise.” And wasn’t that just the tables turning? Feeling like it was the least he could do, Jordan held his hand out for the sippy cup. “It’s fine. I know you wouldn’t make fun of me like that. You’re already making breakfast… and It’s just us here…” Eyes twinkling, Derek held the sippy cup out again. “You’re a good kid, Jordan. A real sweet kid.” The cold plastic shell fit perfectly in Jordan’s hand as he took it. Proving his point, Jordan brought the plastic spout to his lips. The orange juice was cold and refreshing to chase away the morning breath taste in Jordan’s mouth. The sound of his sipping was loud in the dining area. Jordan gave a small exhale as he took the spout from his mouth. The entire time, Derek looked at him with an indistinguishable soft look. “...I should…get back to cooking.” Derek trailed off, turning abruptly and going to the kitchen once more. ________ Breakfast was a quiet affair, neither one really saying much. It was only as they both stood in the kitchen afterward, rinsing and loading the dishes from cooking into the dishwasher, that Derek asked about Jordan’s work schedule. “We have an event coming up. So, I have to work the night shift for the next few days to get everything spotless and set up. My boss is foaming at the mouth and it was either take the night shifts or open.” Jordan gave a shiver. “I hate opening. It makes me too exhausted to do anything else.” Derek seemed to make a mental note of that before he started the dishwasher. “Your clothes are in the dryer at the moment, you probably have another hour or so before they’re ready. Think you can stay awake for another episode?” He teased just slightly. “Pfft. Staaahp.” Jordan scoffed, blushing at the reminder of his sleepiness But eventually, they did settle on another episode of the show they were slowly making their way through. And when the dryer buzzed, Jordan changed into his previous clothes and left with a promise to Derek that he wouldn’t overwork himself. Oddly enough, Jordan found himself better able to focus on work and his classes even with all the stress of the event coming. It was as if the night at Derek’s gave his mind a reset that it so desperately needed. The anxiety he had come to constantly cope with was less than a dull buzz in the back of his mind. His grades were steadily improving, his boss was hinting at a possible promotion to the event manager position, and Derek was the careful and considerate landlord he was before. It wouldn’t be too long until their paths crossed once more, though. ________ Jordan was switched to delivery the day before the event. It was a position he knew well but dreaded because it meant going up and down theater stairs all day carrying bags of popcorn and drinks to customers’ seats. He was behind the concessions counter filling tubs of popcorn and restocking his apron with pockets full of straws, salt, butter, and napkins. ‘Welcome to FlixWorld, are you wanting to print a ticket or purchase one?” The standard box office greeting grate against his ears. “I purchased my ticket online. I assume I just need to print it?” A very familiar voice asked. Head jerking back, Jordan could see Derek talking to the girl at the ticket kiosk. For a moment, he was embarrassed to be seen at his place of work, but he remembered extending the offer to get Derek tickets before. He couldn’t be mad about the man going to see a movie. Quickly, before Derek could start making his way over, Jordan slipped his employee card to Kathy at the register. “Kat, that guy at the kiosks is a friend of mine. Give him my discount, please.” He explained, receiving a thumbs up before going back to his cart. The hum of the slushy machine was loud in his ears and it was only later as Kat slipped his tag back around his neck that he realized Derek had come and gone. He didn’t have time to dwell as his pager started to vibrate in his pocket. “Ugh, Kat, I’m due in theater 4. Can you get the door?” The cart was heavy and it was a battle trying to get it through the swinging door without knocking anything over. Having Kat hold it open was the only option. Thus began the next 30 minutes of running up and down stairs, handing out drinks and snacks right before the opening credits started rolling. Three theaters later, Jordan spotted a familiar name printed on the ticket stapled to a bag. ‘Derek K.’ Somewhat excitedly, Jordan pushed the cart down the long hall until he got to theater 7. It was their smaller theater which meant he wouldn’t be doing too much walking. And by his own organization of the cart, There were only two orders in a higher row than Derek. They weren’t big orders at all, so Jordan wasn’t too out of breath as he brought Derek’s singular large tub of popcorn to him. “Hi, Derek,” Jordan smiled. “Can I get you anything else? Extra napkins? Salt?” Derek took a piece of popcorn and popped it into his mouth. “I think I’m good. Are you manning the cart all night?” Jordan nodded with a sigh. “It’s not too busy though. And it gets slower the later it gets.” “You’re working pretty hard.” “It’ll be easier when this event is over and done with.” Jordan gave a small forced smile. “But if that’s all, I’ll be on my way.” “Oh, wait!” Derek called, digging into his pocket. Jordan stays long enough for him to pull out a folded five dollar bill and hold it out for him. “Your tip.” Jordan winced. “We aren’t allowed to accept tips. But thank you though!” Just then, the pager in his pocket started to vibrate. Pulling it out, He saw the number 11 flashing across the screen. “I have to get going, it was nice seeing you, Derek!” Derek said something, but by then Jordan was closer to the speakers and the previews were quite loud. He gave one final wave at the bottom of the stairs to Derek before pushing the cart along once more. This continued on for most of the night until, finally, he was allowed to take a break. When he came back, he spent the rest of the night until 1am cleaning each theater and shutting down the popcorn makers behind the counter. He went home that night and barely made it up the steps. As much as he wanted a shower, his bones ached for sleep. Jordan was only glad he had the autonomy to take off his uniform before flopping onto the bed and passing out while curled up to his pillow. ______ The dream he had was amazing. In this dream, he had drawn himself a nice warm bath in one of those large claw foot tubs. The steam rose in the air and the water was his favorite temperature. Dipping his fingers in, The warmth traveled up his arm. From there, Jordan didn’t waste much time before slipping under the water and suds. A peaceful sigh left his lips. Pretty soon, however, his dream was interrupted by a dreadfully familiar chill. Jerking up from bed, Jordan found the sheets wet. This time, it was in his own bed. Horror clung to him as he surveyed the damage. How could ge manage to lose control again?! And this time it wouldn’t be as simple as putting them in the washing machine himself…

As the title suggests, I'm looking for an rp partner. I prefer literate roleplay first off. For me I lean more DL than AB, but I'm interested in both. I have no solid plot other than I think a gradual forced/reluctant regression would be cool. Also role reversal, the one usually in charge not being in control of what's happening. For my character I would like to be the one being regressed. I don't like playing physically young characters, so my character won't be physically younger that 17. I'd prefer your character not be much younger either. I'm not looking for any sexual aspects either. Doing that with another person just makes me uncomfortable ? Seems like I'm asking a lot but I am also flexible with anything not specified here like plot and content. I can also try fandom content as well. ?✌️ looking forward to getting something going.

Lavellan is the house name of an Elf race in the Dragon Age series. I am but a simple nerd. Also, usernames with my first name tend to be taken quite a lot. ?

I think I've read that one before. But I've also read A LOT of renter turned baby stories in my day lol I hope mine stand out on it's own legs ? Thank you so much! ?