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When Kaleigh Turner’s university lacrosse team breaks down in the picture-perfect town of Sweet Hollow, the girls are split into host homes for a warm helping of good old-fashioned hospitality. There’s no cell service, no mechanic until morning, and the locals’ smiles are just a little too wide. Kaleigh isn’t thrilled about being separated from the others, but it’s late, and the woman at the porch door seems kind enough. Just a weird little town. Just one night. By morning, the pie is gone. The nursery is locked. And Kaleigh is no longer dressed like a college athlete. She’s padded. Pacified. And slowly starting to realize the stranger holding her hand doesn’t plan to let her leave anytime soon. This is Book One of the Sweet Hollow Series... ------------------------------------------ PLAYER PROFILE Kaleigh Turner - Junior 5’1” | 109lbs | Position: Attack | Style: Pure Scorer Analysis: An absolute masterclass as a Pure Scoring Attacker, Kaleigh Turner has the innate ability to be in the right place at the right time and make the shot when the pressure is on. She has the heart of a lion inside of her pint-sized body, but more than makes up for her small stature with her determination to get what she wants, no matter the cost. CHAPTER ONE If Kaleigh had known this bus ride was going to turn into a girl’s locker room on wheels—complete with stale Gatorade and Libby’s stand-up comedy hour—she’d have begged to drive herself home. She was bored, but too wired to sleep as highlights and mistakes from the last game still buzzed under her skin. The bus rumbled down the lonely two-lane, headlights flicking over pine trees that blurred into darkness. Inside, it was a rolling fortress of noise and heat—girls sprawled in half-sleep, laughter bouncing off the metal ceiling, a stale undercurrent of sweat and sugar from the victory snacks they’d been demolishing all trip. Kaleigh sat near the front, her window seat giving her a perfect view of her reflection in the glass. She ran her fingers through her hair, fixing stray waves that had stuck to her temples. She didn’t do messy. Not even in the middle of nowhere. Behind her, Libby was holding court with Hannah and Taylor, her voice bouncing over the hum of the wheels, while she kept them in stitches with some story that didn’t even make sense from this angle. Kaleigh caught a few words—enough to smirk, but not enough to join in. Libby was currently mid-rant about how she’d totally saved the game with that last block—her voice echoing down the aisle, drowning out the low hum of the tires. Her voice boomed down the aisle. “I’m telling you, that last block? MVP shit. Goalie of the century.” “Oh please,” Hannah giggled, her blonde hair pulled up in a messy bun. “Libby, you’re like six feet tall and the size of a barn door,” Hannah shot back from two rows behind. “You didn’t even move! The ball hit you because it had nowhere else to go.” Libby threw a half-empty bag of pretzels at her and the pint-sized freshman squealed with laughter, covering her mouth with the back of her hand. Hannah’s laughter had that innocent, breathless quality, like she was still discovering how loud she could be. Taylor watched with that faint, amused smile, notebook balanced on her knee, always taking in the whole scene without a single word wasted. Kaleigh rolled her eyes, but couldn’t help the grin. These girls never shut up, but it was the best kind of noise—family noise. A pack of wolves in jerseys and ponytails. Madison was up a row, angled inward, deep in some hushed conversation with Coach Kristen—two heads bent together in that serious, steady way of theirs. She wasn’t the oldest, but she had this vibe that kept everyone grounded. Like nothing could rattle her and Madison couldn’t turn it off if she tried. Always thinking three steps ahead, even when the rest of them were halfway to dreamland. Even Kaleigh had to admit it—she felt safer when Madison was in charge. Peyton was slouched in the aisle seat across from Kaleigh, her shoulders relaxed and eyes half-lidded. She had one earbud in, the other dangling as she idly twirled an empty Gatorade bottle between her fingers. Meanwhile, Kaleigh was more interested in the peanut M&Ms Libby was hoarding in her backpack. “You gonna share or are you hoarding like a squirrel?” she teased, flicking Libby’s arm. Libby snorted. “Buy your own, princess.” “Ugh,” Kaleigh groaned dramatically, tossing her head back against the seat. “I’m already broke. I guess I’ll just waste away up here, dying from an utter lack of protein.” Taylor, seated a few rows back with her notebook open, didn’t look up. “We can expense snacks if they’re for team morale,” she said flatly, flipping a page. “Is that true?” Kaleigh asked, genuinely interested. “No,” Taylor deadpanned. The bus roared with laughter. Erin, perched in the front row beside Miss Caroline, turned and grinned back at them. She had one foot up on the seat, arms slung across the backrest like she was made for bus rides. She was effortlessly cool in that way that only came from knowing how to play both sides of the field. Half big sister, half therapist—the kind you went to when shit got real. Best athletic trainer in the land and she always looked comfortable in the chaos, like nothing could shake her. “You’re dancing back there, princess,” Erin called, her voice lazy but warm. “Gotta go?” Kaleigh flipped her hair over her shoulder, trying for nonchalance. “I’m fine. Chill.” Kaleigh smiled despite herself. Erin never pushed too hard, never asked for more than she gave. It made Kaleigh feel safe—like no matter how much shit they gave each other, Erin would have her back when it counted. Kaleigh shifted, a soft pressure building in her lower belly. She wasn’t desperate—she never let it get that far. She just didn’t do discomfort. She liked things clean and easy, princess-level care even if she’d never admit it out loud. She sighed and pulled her phone out again even though she knew it wouldn’t work. No service. She rolled her eyes and slipped it back into her bag. She leaned forward, one hand on the seat in front of her, as she caught Miss Caroline’s eye in the rearview mirror. “Miss Caroline?” The older woman turned, her round face bright with a patient smile. “Yes, sweetheart?” “Could we… maybe stop soon? I need to…” Kaleigh trailed off, cheeks warming. Miss Caroline smiled back, warm as fresh cookies. “Of course, honey. I’ll find us a good spot.” “Thanks, Miss Caroline,” Kaleigh muttered. That was the thing about Miss Caroline—she understood. Kaleigh was half grateful, half mortified. She knew the second they stopped, it’d be another round of baby jokes. That was fine. She could take it. Libby didn’t miss a beat. “Aww, princess can’t hold it?” Her grin was wicked, and Kaleigh shot her a look that would’ve frozen boiling water. Hannah piped up from the back, “It’s okay, Kaleigh. We’ll hold your hand while you go potty.” “Can’t have our little princess ruin her shorts. That would be tragic,” Peyton mumbled lazily, not bothering to open her eyes. “I hate all of you,” Kaleigh said with fake sweetness, flipping them off. Miss Caroline’s voice cut through the chatter, patient and calm. “Be nice, girls. I’ll find a gas station. Everyone can stretch their legs.” Kaleigh nodded, trying to play it off with a roll of her eyes, and slumped back in her seat with a sigh of relief. Kaleigh didn’t mind. She liked being seen, but not necessarily part of the show. As much as she hated feeling like the baby of the team, she was not about to become the girl who peed her shorts in front of everyone. Erin leaned in and gave Kaleigh a small grin from the front row. “Good call, K. Don’t let these hyenas shame you for wanting to be comfortable. I’m sure everyone has to go and just didn’t want to say anything. Way to take the lead.” Kaleigh’s shoulders relaxed a bit. Erin always understood—she never judged. Kaleigh shot her a grateful smile. “Thanks, Erin.” The bus kept rumbling down the road, the windows rattling like teeth. Kaleigh let my eyes wander, picking up snippets of laughter and half-baked stories. The air was warm and sticky, but somehow… cozy. Like if you squinted hard enough, this was exactly how a team was supposed to feel: messy and loud and a little too close. Kaleigh could hear Caroline’s gentle voice rising above the low rumble of the bus, something about the town they were heading through and how it was always a nice place to stop. Erin nodded along, her easy calm a counterpoint to the buzz of the rest of them. Kaleigh felt a flicker of relief and let her head rest against the window again, watching the darkness roll by. A little smile played at the corner of her lips—sweet relief was coming. And after that? Maybe she’d let herself join in the jokes. Maybe. But first… just let this bus stop. Kaleigh shifted again, her legs pressing together tight. The chatter helped distract her from the increasingly urgent need to pee. The bus’s AC had kicked on again, and the cold air only made it worse. Outside, a flicker of neon finally broke the darkness—a glowing promise of relief. Miss Caroline slowed the bus, her gentle voice carrying over the engine hum. “There,” she said softly. “There’s a little gas station up ahead. We’ll pull in, let everyone stretch.” Kaleigh’s shoulders dropped in relief, a small smile ghosting her lips. She didn’t know why the idea of stopping in this quiet, off-the-map town felt like a tiny luxury—like a stolen breath in the middle of a game. She didn’t see the way Miss Caroline’s eyes lingered on the flickering neon sign just up the road, or the way Erin’s lips pressed into a thin line when the bus rolled into the parking lot. She just felt the bus slow to a stop and the weight in her bladder ease at the promise of relief. As they rolled into the gas station, Coach Kristen looked back at them all, her face soft but serious. “Alright, five minutes, girls. No wandering off.” “Who’s gonna kidnap us, the old lady at the slushy machine?” Hannah teased. Libby snorted and then pulled out her best creepy scary story face. “Or maybe that sketchy trucker parked out back. Bet he’s got a basement full of Barbie heads.” Erin’s tone shifted, calm but with an edge. “Yeah, we’re not taking chances. Stick together, understand?” Kaleigh loved that about her—the way she could flip from big-sister jokes to stone-cold seriousness in a heartbeat. It was how she knew Erin had her back. Kaleigh let herself sink back against the seat, her mind already skipping ahead to the snacks she’d grab and the chance to freshen up in a real bathroom—because a princess didn’t rough it if she didn’t have to. She caught Libby’s smirk in the window reflection, but didn’t say anything. The bus was full of girls who had her back—even if they pretended otherwise. And right now, she’d take that over any five-star bathroom in the world. CHAPTER TWO The gas station was exactly what Kaleigh expected: old neon, yellowed tiles, and a flickering sign that read “Welcome Ya’ll.” in faded red. One of those nowhere places that smelled like diesel and burnt coffee. A weird old guy in oil-stained overalls was already there, wiping his hands on a rag as they pulled in. His grin was a little too wide, like he’d been waiting for them to roll in. Kaleigh watched him warily as he ambled closer. “Evenin’, ladies,” he said, his voice a slow, syrupy drawl. “Bus trouble?” Miss Caroline smiled back, all patient Southern charm. “Just a quick pit stop, thank you. We’ll be out of your hair in no time.” “Aw, don’t rush,” he said, his eyes sweeping the girls in a way that made Kaleigh’s skin crawl. “Not much else to see out here tonight.” The girls didn’t answer. They just exchanged looks—an unspoken agreement to file him under creepy but probably harmless. Libby cracked a grin, nudging Hannah. “Go on, Hannah. Before he builds a shrine to you in the back room.” “Gross,” Hannah muttered, flipping her honey-blonde hair over one shoulder. Miss Caroline’s voice cut through the chatter. “Girls, go stretch your legs. Five minutes, and stay together.” As soon as the bus door whooshed open, Kaleigh lead the pack into the tiny store—anything to shake off that guy’s stare. The air inside the gas station was stale and warm, smelling of old gum and even older coffee. Kaleigh had just made her way through the snack aisle when she spotted the flickering neon BATHROOM sign hanging over a warped wooden door. She hesitated for half a second, weighing the rising pressure in her bladder against the absolute horror show she’d glimpsed through that doorway. But before she could even make a decision, Hannah darted past her—eyes wide, lips pressed together like she was holding back a prayer. “God,” Hannah muttered, already fumbling with the knob. “I can’t hold it anymore—don’t judge me.” Poor girl had been holding it in for half the bus ride. She gave Kaleigh a quick, grateful look—like she was the hero of the hour for speaking up. Hannah didn’t even hesitate. She ducked inside and slammed the door. Kaleigh heard her let out a relieved sigh—like she’d been about to burst. Kaleigh took another look at the stained linoleum tiles, the single bare bulb buzzing like a wasp nest overhead. Nope. Absolutely not. She’d hold it. No way she was lowering herself to that. A girl has to have standards. Erin gave her a knowing smirk as she fell back in line with the group. “Like a portal to the ninth circle of hell in there,” Kaleigh offered, nose scrunching. Libby poked her head in next and came back out in less than a second, gagging dramatically. “Nope. I’m good,” she declared, grabbing a bag of chips instead. Taylor didn’t even bother. She was at the fridge, scanning the rows of cheap energy drinks while Peyton hung back, arms crossed, her expression unreadable. Kaleigh found herself drifting around the snack aisle, trying not to touch anything sticky. She picked up a candy bar, flipped it over, and put it back. Nothing looked fresh. Nothing felt right. Erin leaned against the counter, cool as ever, but her eyes were alert. She clocked the guy at the register with a calm stare that said, Don’t even think about it. That was enough for Kaleigh—if Erin was on edge, she knew she’d be okay. Miss Caroline reappeared from outside, smiling like she was trying to sell them all on this dump. “He’s going to top us off with gas. Says it’s the last place for miles.” “Of course it is,” Libby said under her breath. Alright, girls,” she called, already leading the way. “Let’s get back on the bus. We’re almost there.” They filed back onto the bus in twos and threes, the door folding shut behind them with a hiss like a sigh of relief. The air felt damp and sweet after the stale funk of the gas station, and Kaleigh wasted no time sliding back into her seat, crossing her legs tight. She’d hold it. She’d hold it until their next stop or until she died, whichever came first. Hannah dropped in beside her, still pink in the cheeks but grinning with relief. “Don’t even look at me,” she said. “I had no choice.” “Hey, no judgment here,” Kaleigh said, flipping her hair nonchalantly while her legs twitched. She resumed her judging look as soon as Hannah turned around to steal more snacks. “Sometimes a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do.” Libby dropped into the seat behind her, still crowing about the horror show they’d just escaped. “That bathroom was straight-up haunted,” she said, voice half disgusted, half delighted. “I swear to God, there was something moving in there.” Peyton, wiping her hands on a napkin she’d grabbed from the snack rack, gave her a sideways look. “Or maybe it was just your reflection in the mirror, Libs.” “Fuck you, Peyton,” Libby shot back, but she was laughing, too. “Ugh,” Hannah groaned, hugging her backpack to her chest like a teddy bear. “I don’t even want to think about it. Let’s just get out of this creepy town.” Hannah buried her face into her bag, shoulders shaking. “I’m never going to be the same again. Like, I’m forever marked by that bathroom. It’s in my soul now.” The old guy gave them a slow, toothy grin as he finished pumping gas and Miss Caroline kept chatting politely, her voice calm. But Kaleigh noticed the way the woman’s hand stayed tight on the bus door. The way her shoulders never really relaxed. Something about that smile made her shiver, but she didn’t say anything. “Y’all have a safe trip,” the man said as they climbed back on. “Ain’t much else ‘round here. Town’s up the road if y’all need a place to eat or take a breather.” Miss Caroline nodded, but she didn’t look him in the eye. Kaleigh caught that and tucked it away. She knew enough to read the difference between nice and too nice. They all settled back into their seats as Miss Caroline turned the key, the bus’s old engine grumbling like it was too tired for this nonsense. It wheezed, sputtered, then gave a reluctant roar that rattled the windows. Kaleigh watched her in the mirror, catching the flicker of worry in Miss Caroline’s eyes. The bus lurched forward with a rumble, the tires crunching over gravel as Miss Caroline pulled them back onto the main road. She caught Erin’s eye in the mirror, her own mouth a thin line that said she was just as grossed out as they were but didn’t have the luxury of saying it. Hannah made a face. “That guy kept staring at my legs like he’d never seen a girl wear shorts before.” Kaleigh smirked. “Well, maybe he just doesn’t get a lot of visitors out here in the middle of nowhere. Maybe you’re his once-in-a-lifetime chance to see civilization.” Libby leaned her head back, rolling her eyes dramatically. “Civilization my ass. That place was like stepping into a horror movie. LIke one of those really old ones with no WIFI from the 90s or something.” Taylor’s voice was soft but sure. “We’re just lucky it was a quick stop.” The chatter picked up again. The girls tore open bags of chips and passed around lukewarm sodas. The vibe felt forced, like they were all pretending this wasn’t the weirdest pit stop of their lives. She let her eyes close for a second, letting the soft rumble of the bus and the laughter of her team settle around her. They were back on the road. That was all that mattered. Kaleigh kept her gaze fixed out the window as the bus turned off the main road and rolled on. She noticed the detour signs as they passed and when she turned back towards the front, the town came into view—tiny, almost too perfect. Old-timey storefronts, white picket fences, and streetlamps with hanging flower baskets. It looked like a movie set someone forgot to tear down. “Sweet Hollow”, Kaleigh muttered under her breath, reading the large welcome sign as they drove past slowly. The chatter on the bus had just started to mellow when the bus gave a low, shuddering cough. There was a rattle. Then a hiss. Then it died completely. The chatter cut out like someone yanked the plug. The only sound was the soft tick of cooling metal. “Shit,” Miss Caroline said, her voice calm but edged with frustration as she guided the bus to the side of the road. Kaleigh didn’t know much about cars but she was fairly certain this wasn’t good. Miss Caroline cut the ignition and turned to look back at them all with that tired, motherly smile. Coach Kristen surveyed the scene and the sets of wide eyes staring back at her. “Alright, girls. Out. I see a diner ahead. Let’s get some food and I’ll make some calls to get us back on the road soon.” The girls stepped off the bus and stretched in the chilly night air, the hiss of cooling metal fading behind them. Kaleigh followed at her own pace, catching the scent of the diner’s grill drifting on the breeze—a warm promise against the cold. She didn’t miss the way Miss Caroline’s eyes lingered on the old neon sign or the flicker of something in Coach Kristen’s expression, but she let it slide. They were all starving, the place ahead had food, and that was enough for now. Libby was already dragging Hannah along by the hand, chattering about milkshakes and fries. Peyton fell in behind them, looking casual but alert. Even Taylor’s nose was lifted, sniffing out the scent of a fresh pot of coffee. Kaleigh paused a beat longer at the bottom of the steps, her gaze flicking back at the bus, quiet and still under the streetlamp’s glow. Then she turned and let herself be pulled along with the others, laughter and chatter already rolling ahead of her. The diner’s door swung shut behind them with a soft jingle of bells. Inside, every head turned. Conversations stopped. Forks paused midair. The girls stood in the doorway, frozen for a beat as every face in the diner turned their way. CHAPTER THREE The diner looked like it’d been frozen in time: checkerboard floors, neon lights, red vinyl booths so bright they practically glowed. The smell of sizzling bacon and fresh coffee wrapped around them like a warm hug as they stepped inside. “Come on in, girls,” a kind voice shouted said from behind the counter “Make yourselves at home!” The team spread out in small clusters, chattering about the bus breakdown and the weird gas station vibes. Coach Kristen was at the counter, phone in hand, trying to get a signal—frowning when the bars kept flickering in and out. The cook, a round, grandmotherly woman with a pink apron and kind eyes, beamed at them from behind the window pass. “Order up whatever you want, girls,” she said. “It’s on the house tonight.” Libby’s eyes went wide. “You’re kidding.” “Nope. No sense in letting you go hungry,” the cook said, her voice warm as a quilt. “We’re known for our pies, too. Save room for dessert.” Hannah squealed, bouncing on her toes. “I want one of everything!” Libby scooted around her, already craning her neck to see what was on the pie rack. “Free pie? God, I love small towns,” she said. Miss Caroline herded them to a set of booths, the girls sliding in, legs tangling and laughter bubbling up as menus were passed around. Taylor didn’t sit right away—she hung back, eyes flicking around the diner like she was cataloging every face, every smile. The cook—they’d been here only a few minutes but she’d already told everyone to call her her “Miss Sandy,” like she’d known them for years—poured sweet tea that tasted like summer and walked around with a pitcher of fresh lemonade that kept finding its way back to their table, no matter how many times they emptied it. Coach Kristen was still holding her phone in the air, trying to create a bar on her phone out of sheer willpower. “No service way out here,” a man seated next to her at the counter said—tall, broad-shouldered, with a smile too easy to trust. He had a metallic name tag that read Mayor in big bold letters. “But don’t worry. Our mechanic’ll take a look in the morning.” He watched her for a beat as she opened her mouth to speak and then beat her to the punch. “But don’t you worry, we’ll get you girls sorted out,” The Mayor added, his tone friendly but final. For now… let’s get you fed, huh?” “Thank you,” Coach Kristin said, her voice polite but tight, as she looked at her team laughing and salivating as they eyed the food on the grill. Sandy bustled behind the counter, pouring sweet tea into chipped glass tumblers, her bright laugh floating up as she winked at them. “Order anything you want, hon. The kitchen’s yours tonight.” Hannah practically vibrated with excitement, fingers drumming on the table as she chattered about milkshakes and fries. Erin watched her with that easy big-sister grin, calm and protective even in this strange place. Kaleigh sank into the booth across from them, her eyes on Sandy’s careful movements. The food came out fast—plates piled high with burgers and golden fries, bowls of thick stew that smelled like heaven after hours on the road. Sandy was everywhere at once, refilling drinks and sliding extra pie slices onto plates, her smile never slipping. Kaleigh caught snippets of chatter from the counter—a curvy cheerful woman talking about some kind of preschool program she was excited about to a sweet quiet girl, not much older than them, whose eyes kept darting shyly from the bubbly educator towards the gaggle of giggling girls. The diner’s warm glow and the endless flow of sweet tea and lemonade made Kaleigh’s head feel soft and fizzy. She sipped another glass, the icy sweetness cutting through the heavy meal of burgers, fries, and pie that had turned her into a little kid again—stuffed and satisfied in that way that only comes from homemade food. She shifted in her seat, pressing her legs together. Her need to pee was growing, a steady pressure she kept ignoring because, God, that tea was too good to stop. She didn’t even want to know what they put in it—sunshine and magic, probably. She kept refilling her glass like she was chasing a sugar high, even though she knew she’d regret it later. Around her, the girls were mellowing out, voices dropping to soft giggles as the food settled heavy in their bellies. Libby leaned back in her seat, her hair falling in her eyes as she let out a groan. “I’m gonna explode,” she muttered. “If I die tonight, bury me in pie.” Peyton snorted, one arm draped over the back of the booth like she was too full to even care. Hannah was bright-eyed and bouncy, somehow still finding room to sip lemonade and nibble on crusts of pie like a sugar junkie. Kaleigh listened with half an ear and let her eyes wander the diner—a woman wiping down a table with a cheery hum, Miss Sandy’s warm laughter as she checked in on everyone, the clink of dishes and the low murmur of town folk in quiet conversations. It was too perfect, too cozy, like a scene from an old movie. When Coach Kristen finally stood and walked over, the table quieted immediately. She rested her hands on the back of Libby’s seat, her face soft but serious. “Alright, girls,” she said, voice gentle. “I talked to the mayor. The mechanic can’t look at the bus until morning, and there’s no service out here. No hotel, either, but the townspeople have offered to put us up in their homes for the night.” A wave of murmurs and frowns rolled through the table. “Wait, so we’re just staying in random houses?” Peyton asked, one brow arched. “Can’t we just crash in here or even back on the bus?” Coach gave a small smile, patient. “I asked. They said the diner’s not set up for sleeping, and it’s too cold out there for the bus. They’re being generous, girls. Let’s be respectful.” Kaleigh swallowed, her discomfort—both bladder and otherwise—simmering just under her skin. She didn’t like this. She didn’t like it at all. “Can we go in pairs?” Hannah’s voice was small. “They said their homes are small,” Coach said. “Too small for more than one. But they’ve promised to take good care of us. It’s just for the night.” A beat of silence. Then Miss Sandy’s voice slid in, sweet and syrupy, as she leaned in close with a smile that was all honey and butter. “It’s just for the night,” she said softly, echoing their coach as she tucked a stray hair behind her ear. “Morning comes fast, and I’ll have fresh muffins waiting. You’ll feel right at home, I promise.” The girls murmured half-hearted agreement, slumping back in their seats, too tired and too full to keep arguing. Kaleigh watched Miss Sandy’s warm, motherly smile and let her words settle in her bones. There was something familiar about her. Something she felt like she could trust. “Alright, girls,” Coach said finally, her voice steady but soft. “Be polite. Be grateful. We’ll meet back here first thing for breakfast.” Miss Sandy’s laughter was bright as she gathered up empty plates, stacking them with practiced ease. “Oh, girls,” she cooed, her voice as bright as the neon sign outside. “We’re going to take real good care of you. Don’t you worry about a thing.” The girls stood slowly, gathering their things with resigned shrugs. Sandy gestured them to the door, and one by one, they filed out into the cold night. Sandy bustled through the diner one last time, her movements quick and practiced, sweeping up crumbs and empty cups. “Alright, ladies,” she said brightly. “Let’s get you tucked in. It’s late, and there’s no better sleep than one that comes after my homemade pie.” Kaleigh lagged behind, fingers fidgeting with the hem of her hoodie as she watched her teammates shuffle out into the cold. She felt the tightness in her belly again, but shrugged it off and figured it was from the gallons of sweet tea she’d just guzzled. “Come on, sweetheart,” Miss Sandy said, giving her shoulder a gentle pat. “Your host is waiting.” Kaleigh hesitated at the threshold, the warm glow of the diner fading behind her as she stepped into the chill night air. She felt the weight of Miss Sandy’s hand at her back, guiding her forward with that same soft, insistent push. “Here she is,” Miss Sandy said softly, her voice honey-sweet as they reached the bottom of the steps. She stopped beside a tall, willowy woman in a powder-blue dress, her hair pinned in soft curls, her smile warm and almost dreamy. “Kaleigh, this is Vicky Parker. She’s going to take you home tonight.” Vicky’s smile widened at the sight of her. “Oh, she’s darling,” she said, soft and almost dreamy. She reached out and took Kaleigh’s hand, her grip surprisingly firm. “Welcome, sweetheart. My husband, Sheriff Parker, had to step out for a bit. He’s seeing to some things tonight, but he’ll be home soon.” Kaleigh swallowed, forcing a small, polite smile. “Oh. Okay,” she said softly, her voice just above a whisper. The chill air slipped under her skin, and she shifted her weight, her bladder aching with a sudden urgency she tried to ignore. Miss Sandy gave her shoulder one last reassuring squeeze, her smile unwavering. “It’s just for the night, dear,” she said softly, like she was coaxing a child. “Vicky will take good care of you. And remember, in the morning, there’ll be hot coffee and fresh muffins waiting here.” Kaleigh forced another smile, even as her bladder gave a sharp pang and the cold night air seemed to slip under her skin. “Thank you,” she murmured, though she wasn’t sure who she was thanking—Miss Sandy, Vicky, or just the universe for getting her out of that cramped bus and greasy diner and into something that she hoped might be a little more cozy. She let herself be led away, her steps echoing in the quiet night as Miss Sandy waved and watched them go, her sweet smile never faltering. The diner door swung shut behind them with a soft jingle of bells, and just like that, Kaleigh was swept out of the warm, familiar chaos of her team and into the eerie stillness of the night. --------------------------------- The Sweet Hollow series is my newest creation and obsession. Join me on Ream or SubStar for exclusive access, bonus chapters, and everything I can’t share here. My subscribers have been reading this story for over a week now. You can read the ENTIRE 55k word story on Ream or SubscribeStar or grab it now on Amazon. Find Abby McGee here: SubStar | Ream | Amazon

Authors note This just a story that came to me this morning. It takes place in PrincessPottyPants's Diaper Dimension setting. All characters are in their 20's or older. It's probably just going to be a short story, I don't have any plans for it and I can't promise that I'll be inspired to write more. But I hope you enjoy it and I appreciate any critiques and responses. Fair warning, my writing is pretty rusty so there's bound to be some mistakes (especially if I don't go over it before posting). Also I have anxiety so I'll do my best to respond, just know I tend to be awkward ?. Prelude Marietta shut her eyes and wished she could cover her ears. The sharp laughter was deafening and pierced her deeply. How had she gotten here you ask? She had thought she was safe. Not only had she thought she was safe but she believed it and acted accordingly. One of the biggest mistakes a Little could make, and she had done it so confidently. Her mind kept replaying the events of the day in little bursts she couldn't control. Not being in control is something she will have to get used to, because she will never know it's freedom again. Chapter 1: Winter's Lament The morning had started off better then it had for a while. Spring was finally starting to show itself. Winter was still clutching on to the weather, not quite ready to go into hibernation. But, Winter's time was coming to an end regardless of it's desperate attempts to live on. This duel of the seasons left the mornings chilly and the afternoons warm, the perfect amounts of cold and hot. Marietta had come to hate Winter and it's bitter cold that left her miserable and desperate for warmth. So, while she didn't care for the rainy and allergy ridden Spring, she was ready to embrace it like a long lost friend. Marietta yawned and rubbed the sleep from her eyes as the shrill sound of her alarm clock dutifully made sure she was awake. "Hey Hewie, stop alarm." She told her AI Assistant as she got out of bed and stretched. "Okay, stopping the alarm." The little pink cube on her desk responded. Looking out her open window she felt an inner peace, today would be a good day she decided. Or at least far better then yesterday had been. The warmer weather seemed to chase away her negative thoughts and depressed mood. She knew it was only temporary, but it was still refreshing to have them at bay for now. "Hey Hewie, what's the weather today?" She asked while brushing her long curly black hair. "Right now the weather in Poptonia is 56 degrees, but it feels like 53 due to wind chill. The low for the day is 56 while the high is 73. There's a low chance of rain today." The promise of good weather brought a smile to the little woman's face. Today would be a good day to revitalize her garden. While it had snowed very sparsely this Winter, she had neglected to take any steps to protect her garden during the cold months. This meant she would have to put in extra effort to get it up and ready as quick as possible. Gardening was much more than a hobby for the little greenhorn, it was her lifeblood. Grocery stores are notorious for being a dangerous place for littles, especially if they go alone. Her garden helped her get all the fresh vegetables, fruit, and herbs that she would need for the year. Everything else she ordered online, but fresh food was something you couldn't trust to an online delivery service. If an Amazon or Tweener delivery driver found out they were delivering to a Little, they could tamper with the food and the Little would be none the wiser. That is, until they ended up having a massive 'accident' from the laxative that was injected into the food. Of course it would only be a few moments before the delivery driver, or someone sent on their behest, came to 'help' the poor Little. Helping them out of their soiled underwear and right into a nice thick diaper. Marietta shook her head to stop herself from ruminating on the unfairness and dangers of the life she lived. She was determined to use the nice weather as a springboard for positive thinking and a happier mood. Spring was for the right and now, it was for admiring the roses and enjoying life. Winter was for the past, nursing old pricks, and surviving. To cement her determination to a brighter day, she decided to wear some brighter colors then usual. The jeans she slid up over her bright pink panties were a nice deep blue. They would've looked better if they hugged her curves and showed off her long legs, but she couldn't take that risk. With them being baggy no one could tell what she was wearing underneath. She knew it was safer, and smarter, to wear a Pull-Up, but she couldn't bring herself to do it today. That would certainly tank her mood, and it would be a constant reminder of her place in this cruel world. Which, she was certain, was the whole point of the Amazons wanting her to wear them. To an Amazon a 'mature' Little didn't need diapers, and while their undergarments weren't policed like those of 'immature' Littles, a Pull-Up was a true sign of a Little's 'maturity'. Without one she was making herself vulnerable to Pull-Up Preachers and accusations surrendering her maturity. If the price of being happy for the day is a few minutes of being uncomfortable, that's a price she's willing to pay. In theory the baggy jeans are supposed to protect her from such experiences, but in practice Amazons were free to 'check' her if they wanted to. Even though there weren't any laws, or rules at her college, that demanded she wear protection, her Amazon teachers were still allowed to feel her up and openly embarrass her. After all, it would be their classroom she would 'ruin' or interrupt if she had an 'accident' due to not being properly 'protected'. And of course, 'Amazons Know Best', meaning they're always right and can get away with practically anything. After spending a few minutes perusing her closet, Marietta finally finds a suitable top. She slides the deep red blouse over her lacey pink bra. The short sleeved blouse was loose enough that it doesn't show off her breasts, and 'mature' enough that you can tell she's an adult. If she wore something that hugged her curves or showed off her breasts it would only be used against her by an Amazon hoping to adopt her. They would say she was trying so hard to look like an adult that she didn't care how 'risque' she looked. The cherry on top would be a comment along the lines of how she doesn't have very much to display anyway. She finishes off her look with a dark green cardigan, black sneakers, silver stud earrings, and a simple silver sun necklace. If she wears colors that are too bright it will invite an Amazon to imagine her in colorful baby clothes. If she wears too much jewelry, or if it's too loud in color or design, it would bring comments of how she's trying to hard or how cute she is. The life of a Little is one of meticulous planning and preparing. Grabbing her bookbag and a premade breakfast shake, Marietta steps out of the safety of her home, prepared for the beauty and potential dangers of the day. A hard slap on her bottom drags her back to the present, where she should be. After all, Winter is for the past, and despite all the mourning, Spring is here and it's time for the here and now. An involuntary whimper escapes from the little woman, drawing more of the deafening laughter. Opening her eyes Marietta's attention is greeted by hungry eyes and toothy grins. Awaiting her are dozens of grasping and wandering hands as their owners are desperate to take part in her torment. "Stop squirming!" The booming voice shouted at her. She couldn't think of who the voice belongs to, but she was sure it sounded familiar. In fact, she can't think of anything. Time feels excruciatingly slow and everything has a blur to it, not a single thought bubbles to the surface of her mind. A numbness seeps through her entire body, and her head feels weightless. Staring into the distance, Marietta is once again swept up into her memories, and away from the nightmare that is the here and now. *authors note* Okay so I'll definitely write another chapter because I have more ideas for this. Also while I do love a good cliffhanger, I hate unresolved ones and unanswered questions. But i have no idea when I'll write/post more, so I'll see you when I see you! ❤️ I don't have any experience posting in online forms/rooms like this so any advice relating to format and suggested tags would be appreciated as well!

We are in 2491. because a pandemy in 2150 the world is totally changed: men are became more and more tall up to one meter high, while women are became more and more high up to three meters high. In this context there is been a real social revolution in which the women took the almost total control of society taking the most important crafts while men are reduced to do the less payed but more creative crafts. But in those times between women the fashion of treat the men like babies or toddler was turning. Daniel Thompson was a young stylist who was doing a walk in a park, the next week he would have turned 24 and he was thinking about how celebrate its in the best way, he was thinking about a intimate party with only his best friends. He was 1,02 m high with black hair and green eyes and he was wearing a pair of jeans with a light green sweatshirt, with a expensive sneakers, the gift of his mother. The young man blushed very much when he saw a woman who changed the diaper to a man on a bench in the park, turning the look away and walking more fastly, then she sat down on a bench taking the book that one hof his friend had lent him and starting to read it. After some hours he decided that it was time to return at home but while he was walking in the path he felt observed then he decided to hasten the pace. (please don't write two lines post but be descriptive. about add new tags I would prefer to discuss about before)