Jump to content
LL Medico Diapers and More Bambino Diapers - ABDL Diaper Store

Sheltered [12/03/2023] CH46+47 [Important Subscribestar Update]


Recommended Posts

I know it's like, only my third thing on here, but bear with me. This one's a bit more lengthy, and isn't done. But this one's a bit more revised than where I'm posting it elsewhere. Shouldn't take too long to catch this up to where it is right now, though. Please enjoy and let me know what you think!

DISCLAIMER: If it is not officially declared to be, the story is NOT DISCONTINUED. I don't expect it to ever happen, but until you hear from me directly whether a project has been ended or not, just assume it's either taking longer than usual or is on hold. Please enjoy!


 

Sheltered

1 - Joyce

“Listen, Emms, I just think we should...start seeing other people.”  Jack awkwardly spoke, his half-hearted breakup airing through the speaker of her phone. “We just don’t have that connection anymore, ya know? So I figured it’d be best if we just broke up this way and have it be easier on the both of us.”

“Jack you fucking asshole!” the livid girl shouted, kicking the door to a home she no longer had ownership of. What a sick joke, finding to have been kicked out of your own home before even trying to step a foot inside. It was one thing for wanting to break up, but for doing it in such a shallow and sleazy way? Breaking up by voicemail and changing the locks was what really took the shitlord cake! Unbelievable!

“Listen er,” The voicemail continued, and his digitized voice made Emily seethe. “I had the locks changed to the...apartment. I know you have stuff in here, but I’d rather someone else came for them. So you know, uh, we wouldn’t have to see each other…”

“Ugh, you piece of shit! Can’t you at least face me if we’re gonna do this?” Emily raised her voice again, pounding on the door, unable to reciprocate her feelings. The outlet for anger that should have been her now-Ex was a block of wood, and she could only express that anger through her fists. It was so unfair! Being dumped so one-sidedly, and stepping out of the picture before she could even catch a breath--so suddenly. There was certainly sadness from losing her significant other, but it didn’t do a single thing to dampen the frustration and rage she was feeling towards him right now.

“And um,”

Of course there was more.

“I’ll be gone for the week doing some stuff, so one of your friends won’t be able to reach me until next Sunday. Sorry about that.” As if there was actually any remorse. “And I’m really sorry about this Emily, I just think this is the best for the both of us…Bye.” The voicemail clicked, and his spiel was over.

Emily’s heart was being tossed and turned by a tornado of emotions. She was hurt, yet bitter, since the poor sap couldn’t even face her to give a proper breakup. To the very end he was an inconsiderate, self-absorbed douche that only ever gave a damn about how he felt! In the short term for what sucked the most, all of her clothes were in their--his, apartment! Emily was already kicking herself for having lingering attachment. But how could you sever almost a year’s worth of love in the blink of an eye? Even she knew their relationship wasn’t in the best of spots...but not bad enough to think that this would happen.

Unfortunately, the place was signed under his name, and she had no legal authority to be in there; no authority to get all of her clothes...That’s what sucked the most! Unable to even change, as she moved closer to the exit, the anger burning inside Emily turned into frustration, then finally sorrow. So much of her life had been turned on its head in one fell swoop.


 

Emily moped along the sidewalk as she was still in the blouse, dress pants and hard-sole shoes she’d been hoping to change out of since she sat in her desk this morning. The bustling of cars, people, and city construction blended into white noise as she was deep in sorrowful thought. The little things like not being able to change clothes, get something to drink or even take an after-work shower in her former home seemed to be all that she could think about. The passing faces and noise by this point had all meshed together into white noise. An even darker reminder in the back of her head was how just because her life stopped, that didn’t mean the same for the rest of the world. She had work tomorrow, and there was no chance in hell she could wear the same clothes twice! She took out her phone, hoping someone could help her out; observing her very small list of contacts…

“Candace, please, it’s just for one night. I just need a place to stay so I can freshen up for work the next morning…” A repeated string of failed attempts were already plummeting her expectations. “Oh...you said there’s no space at your place? Alright, sorry to bother…”

“...You moved? Where? Denver? Alright, sorry for calling…”

“The place is being renovated...Mhmm. Okay, thanks anyways.”

“Vacation...Okay.”

A new piece of her heart would chip, as each and every one of her friends let her down; the many lifelines she thought she could count on in times like this. Her mom and dad were not an option either, as it was thanks to her own life decisions--so long ago now, that would put the width of almost an entire country between she and her guardians. She was sitting on a park bench, becoming more glum as the minutes passed and the oranges and yellows from above started to mix with emerging blues and purples, until it all became a muddled black.

Taking a deep breath, Emily tried to minimize the overbearing panic over work in her mind; diverting all the energy she had focused towards being mad at Jack. She tried her best to use it in a much more productive sense. What she needed to worry about the most was finding a place to stay for the night. She reasoned that a hotel or motel room would have to do; whatever she could find at the cheapest price. Standing up from the bench, she then noted her phone had only 13% of its battery left.

Fucking Jack! If he hadn’t royally screwed her day up, she could have tended not only to herself, but her phone too! But that wasn’t an option right now, like all other avenues of hope. All Emily could do was work with the time she had. The clock read 7:06, and the sun was setting. And speaking of the sun setting...the clouds suspended above looked to resemble her mood an awful bit. Almost like…

Rain.

The raindrops were crashing onto the brick sidewalks with such force, that they would explode into little mini water bombs; snaking their way into the cracks between Emily’s exposed foot and shoe. Without an umbrella, Emily’s body had become ice cold with her business attire doing little to protect her from the raw elements, as she became drenched in every sense of the word.

“N-Need t-to find a motel…” She shivered and shook with each step. Upon the research done on her phone, any of the nearby hotels were far too expensive to spend a night in. Yes, she needed shelter, but not the kind that would break the bank. Practically swimming in her shoes, Emily felt alienated by the few people that still walked the streets, the difference between them and her being they had umbrellas.

“S-Somewhere, please…” Emily quaked as she was on her last leg. She couldn’t stop anywhere, because another wasted moment would be the potential rest she would lose out on. Everything had gone wrong, and there didn’t seem to be any sign of that changing in sight. What was supposed to be another day off of work had transformed into something much more unforgiving, and became a night filled with unforeseen obstacles that challenged her in every which way. Emily could only let out a pout as she saw the time on her phone read 8:28. But as long as she could get through this, everything would be okay, until--!

“Wha!- agh!” Emily yelped as she was swept off the ground, and collided with the brick path face-first. Getting up on her knees shakily, she turned around to see the small opening in the sidewalk she managed to trip on; a puddle of water disguising the evil trap. She looked at her foot which now had a throbbing pain, but it was too dark to clearly see just how bad it was. Either way, her ankle hurt. What made things worse was when she noticed something on the ground, closer inspection revealing it to be a phone. Her phone.

“No...no, no, please!” the damaged girl whined as she held the broken remains of her phone. The screen was cracked, and the now lifeless screen reflected her helpless situation. The feelings of despair truly started to sink in at that point, tears edging out of her eyes as bitter defeat embraced her. It was impossible to distinguish what were her tears and the rain, the mix of misery rolling down her cheeks. Bracing herself, Emily picked the phone up and started to stand. Putting weight on the wounded foot however was a mistake, feeling a sharp jolt of pain erupt from her left foot Emily quickly fell again. She looked around for anyone that could help her, but she had truly reached a new low now, as no one was walking in the area. Only the occasional car would drive by, much too busy to stop, much less even notice a person in the pouring rain. Not that she’d expect them to. Just like everyone else, she should be able to handle this.

Streams of indistinguishable liquid ran down her cheeks. Did it matter though? Without any goal in mind now, Emily stood herself on the uninjured foot this time, limping to the doorstep of a building that was covered by a small overhead. Silently, interrupted by sobbing every now and then, she watched the rain crash into the ground as if it were hypnotic, and was devoid of all thought. Too miserable to think, too damaged to move, she ran out of stamina to consider the future, and was too preoccupied with digesting the present. Somehow, despite being covered in water and chilled to the bone, exhaustion must have taken her over, and she dozed off for who knows how long.


 

“Excuse me? Hello?”

Emily, still groggy from sleeping, looked up to see a mysterious figure tower over her.

“You’re awake, thank goodness…” The womanly voice sighed in relief.

“Wh-who are you?” Emily was still shaking the sleep out of her head, trying to collect herself.

“Come on now, can you stand?” They were concerned for her, as they leaned over to pick Emily up by the shoulder.

Leaning on the woman as a crutch, Emily quickly found herself on her bad foot again, letting out a yelp of pain as she quickly readjusted. The woman seemed to take notice as well, taking care to ease their pace towards who knows where. In one arm she had Emily’s torso and the other a hand occupied with an umbrella--something Emily would have appreciated as a silver lining ages ago. It hadn’t been but only a few minutes until Emily found herself being shuffled into a car and laid down on a row of seats with a towel surprisingly ready for her. Emily’s rescuer shut the door behind her and moved to the front seat. Then driver’s door shut, and the car made a quiet hum as the vehicle began to move.

“I know you’re a bit out of it right now hon, but if you can hear me, I’m going to take you ba…”

And that was it. Emily dozed back off into sleep, relishing that she was somewhere much more comfortable than the hard steps on the city streets. Either way, her current bed was thousands of times better than what she was just dealing with, and it felt amazing. Despite all the turmoil she’d experienced this day, Emily finally felt at peace, if only for a short while.


 

“Mmmmmm” Emily softly moaned as she stirred beneath the covers. She rolled her body from one large pillow to the next. The mattress felt like a cloud that supported her entire body and everything around it. And the covers felt warm, yet so loose and free. Light from somewhere aroused her eyes, causing them to open, and force the realization that this wasn’t her bed, or room. Or...clothes? Emily looked over to the light that poured through a glass door balcony, and onto her and the light brown covers that blanketed her. She looked down at herself, dressed in a slightly white oversized nightgown, and lifted the hem to also see she wasn’t wearing the same panties as she was from when she was last awake. Unfamiliar with where she was, Emily racked her brain trying to think of what happened. She looked at the digital clock by the nightstand, seeing it was the early morning of tomorrow, or rather, today.

Someone had picked her up last night, took her to her car and…nothing.

That’s all she could remember? Emily looked down at herself again, reasoning she must have been pretty dazed to go under a transformation like this without being disturbed. It was also clear then she wasn’t wearing a bra, if she didn’t already feel vulnerable enough. Emily whisked the cover to the side as she stepped out of the bed onto the thickly carpeted floor, and walked over to the door leading into a hallway; reminding herself to stay on her good foot. The floor was now wooden (And cold, she almost sheepishly noted), and there were a couple of other doors that were closed. She walked into an open area decorated like a living room. On all of the white walls, she noticed the occasional empty space would be occupied by some abstract art piece or another. She walked past the large couch and coffee table, into a much shorter hallway, through another opening and into a kitchen.

“Finally awake, are we?” The woman from the night before said to Emily, causing her to jump slightly from surprise.

She was sitting at a table next to the island, sipping what permeated the wonderful aroma of coffee and was scrolling through a tablet, reading who knows what.

“Uhm, hi.” Emily could only stifle a response. Being in a stranger’s home and comparing their attire, the woman couldn’t help but feel intimidated, and also well-underdressed for the exchange.

“Well? Don’t be a stranger. Sit!” She commanded in a friendly tone, slipping off what were probably her reading glasses as she excused herself and moved over the counter.

Emily was still taking in the woman’s appearance and her surroundings, trying to get things up to speed for herself while she adjusted. This room’s interior was dressed in tiled backsplash, and the many metal tools and appliances seemed so stainless...and expensive.

“Excuse me?” Her savior suddenly asked, breaking Emily’s train of thought.

“Oh! Yes?” Emily quickly responded, slightly embarrassed for being so out of tune.

“I asked how you liked your coffee.” She looked back at Emily waiting for an answer. “Do...do you drink coffee?”

“Yes! Yes, please,” Emily was quick to answer again. “I’ll just have whatever you’re having.”

“Are you sure? I really don’t mind making something extra.”

“No, please, I’ll be fine with yours.”

“If you insist…”

Emily stared down the back of the person she didn’t even know the name of yet. Her brown hair ran a bit past her shoulders, and was wavy and free, yet was tame and professional. Seeing her stand, even minus the heels, the woman looked like she had quite a few inches on the very small-feeling Emily. She was already dressed in a gray two-piece suit that hugged her curves, ready for the day, much unlike Emily who felt very exposed at the moment.

She pulled a mug from one of the cabinets and poured the rest of the coffee pot into it, setting the drink in front of Emily.

“Bon appétit.” She chuckled, returning to her own seat.

Black. Of all the kinds of ways she could drink her coffee, it was black. The least of Emily’s favorites. But she couldn’t turn it down now, not after already being offered the drink. That would be impolite of course...and childish. Emily took a sip of the still-hot coffee, taking in the bitter taste as she sat the mug down.

“You looked pretty banged up last night,” The woman broke the silence. “It was a good thing I found you when I did.”

“Yeah, that’d have to be an understatement. I can’t thank you enough for what you did last night. Believe me, I felt like I’d reached the end of my rope…”

The woman smiled again at Emily’s return of gratitude, taking a sip from her own drink now.

“And you’ll have to forgive me,” She started again. “I didn’t even catch your name last night?”

“Emily, Emily Sen.”  Again, Emily internally cursed herself for not even giving her name before spending the night. Not that she was even in the condition to have done so. “And I didn’t get yours either…?”

“Joyce, Joyce Summers. Sorry for not telling you any sooner, you seemed a bit out of it to try and make any conversation.” She laughed, as Emily’s unfortunate night was already starting to feel like a thing of the past.

“Thank you again. And your house is so lovely, from what I’ve seen at least. For letting me stay in your room, thank you, really! I can’t appreciate it enough.”

Joyce was still smiling, but with a tinge of curiosity she asked, “It’s really no trouble, but what do you mean? You didn’t sleep in my room last night. You slept in the guest room?”

What? She had to be joking! Joyce looked amused as she could see the surprise morph Emily’s face. “But it was so huge! Everything in that room looks way too nice to not be a master bedroom!”

“Better believe it hon, I just like my guests to feel comfortable.” Joyce sipped her coffee again, taking a moment to check once more on her tablet.

Now that Emily thought about it, this apartment did seem awfully large, and didn’t look cheap in decor. Judging from what she had seen, it didn’t take long for Emily to connect the dots that Joyce did in fact live some kind of lavish life to an unknown degree.

“Wow…” It was all Emily could do for a reply. Being in such a big home really put things into perspective with what she and Jack had at their relatively much smaller apartment. Jack...She then felt a pang of sadness at the sound of his name. Jack truly was an asshole, but she couldn’t deny how long they’d been together, and how much it hurt to now be apart. She felt the tears coming on as she never had a moment to process her emotions.

“Is everything okay?” Joyce was already getting up from her seat, ready to come to her aid.

“Yes,” She sniffled. “Everything’s fine...I was just thinking about last night, that’s all.” Emily half-lied, quickly drying her tears and doing her best to stay strong and keep up appearances, in front of the one person she wanted to look good to.

Joyce sat down again, seeing she was more or less alright now, and said: “Well please, I want to hear all about it. It’s the least you could do. I’d like to know how something as wonderful as yourself could have been dealt such a bad hand.”

Emily warmed to the kind tone of her words. For in what felt like forever, things actually felt like they were stable. And she was right. The least Emily owed Joyce was an explanation.

Emily took a deep breath, then started. “So I was just coming home from work the other da…”


 

“Well…” Joyce briefly spoke, taking in Emily’s entire story. She stopped, and got out of her seat, wrapping her arms around the surprised Emily. “It’s alright now, we’ll get you fixed up.” She continued, comforting Emily in the middle of her kitchen. She couldn’t help but blush, feeling even smaller now for being hugged like a child as if they needed consoling (considering her eyes could see just only above her bosom). But she couldn’t deny it was nice to have someone that actually felt like they were there for her.

“Th..thanks…” Emily responded. While she couldn’t reciprocate the awkward embrace totally, she at least hung her hands from Joyce’s arms. The two were still far from really knowing each other, but it felt like Joyce was making an effort to shorten that gap of strangeness.

“Now,” Joyce released Emily from their hug. “Let me clean our drinks up. I’m sorry I didn’t make anything more...‘extravagant,’ but I’m a bit rushed for time, you see…” Joyce was quick to take both mugs (Emily’s being hardly touched) and empty whatever was left into the sink and wash them out. Snapping back to reality, Emily then asked, “Also, how were you able to find clothes that fit me?”

“As you can see the nightgown doesn’t fit since it’s in my size,” Joyce joked as she turned off the faucet. “But other than that, I just bought you a package of underwear when I got you back here. And how did I know your size? Well…” Joyce gave an exaggerated look as if she were sizing Emily up. “I have a knack for clothes!” She laughed. Then as an afterthought she included, “And sorry about the bra, I was a bit preoccupied on getting back to you with the bare minimum. I didn’t want to put you for a total scare by being alone in a stranger’s apartment.”

“Wait, you bought this for me?” Emily looked down at herself. “Please, just let me know how much I owe you. I promise I’m good for it, and--!”

“Nonsense.” Was all Joyce said. “Your money’s no good here. Only I will provide to my guests.”

Emily then remembered her chest was currently bare under a single article of clothing, and was suddenly thinking about how Joyce had dressed her at some point last night; coloring her face in a new shade of embarrassment. But such thoughts were quickly chased by another one.

Work!

Ohgodohgodohgod, she totally forgot! Emily remembered checking the clock that morning and it was somewhere around 7:00, and she had to be in for 7:30! A look of panic took over Emily’s face and Joyce seemed to notice too, asking what was wrong.

“I’m gonna be late for work! I need to be in by 7:30!” Emily worried as she was quick to slide the chair back over the tiled floor and unknowingly step on her injured foot. With a wince and jolt of pain, she fell back into her seat however, Joyce following over to her.

“Emily,” She politely yet sternly said as she knelt and made eye contact with her. “You can’t go to work today.” Gently, Joyce lifted Emily’s red and slightly swollen ankle. “Did you forget about this?” Emily then looked too, and realized that she was being foolish for thinking she could work. But there wasn’t any way for her to call in! Not with her phone at least...

“But my phone is broken, and I can’t-” Emily was interrupted as Joyce was already taking out hers.

“What’s the number to your workplace?” Joyce asked, patiently waiting for an answer.

Hesitantly, Emily gave the number to her. But why would she need to know? Emily was the one who had to call in. Joyce dialed the number and put the phone to her ear while she waited on the line.

“Joyce really maybe I should be the-” Emily was again halted by Joyce when she mouthed the words “it’s fine” to her.

“Hello?” Joyce greeted to the person over the phone. “Hi, this is Joyce Summers calling in place of a worker named Emily Sen?” There was a short pause on the other line. “ Yes, I’m calling to let you know Emily won’t be in for work today.” Another pause. “She injured her foot last night and can’t stand on it properly.” A sudden flashback struck Emily: whenever she would visit the nurse’s office at school, and have to hear the nurse explain her sickness or injury to her parents over the phone.

Yes, she’s scheduled to be having it looked at today. Perfect, thank you for your help.” There was another long pause over the phone. “Who am I to Emily? A...close friend. Yes. Alright, I will be sure to let her know, thank you.” With that, Joyce hung up the phone and Emily was free for the day.

“You didn’t have to call for me, really.” Emily stammered, feeling as if Joyce crossed a line that felt oddly foreign. She strangely felt the need to assert some sort of maturity she now felt was lacking.

“I know I can seem overbearing,” Joyce admitted, “But please, let me do whatever I can to take any stress away from you. Let me help you.”

Emily felt better once she explained herself and was somewhat put at ease.

“Okay...Thank you, again.” Emily couldn’t express her gratitude enough. In a span of less than 24 hours, Emily had come to meet a person that was willing to bend over back for her on all fronts. Frankly, she feel deserving of such generosity. Not a single bit of it.

“But they did tell me to relay to you that you still need to send an email stating that you won’t be in today. Just so they hear from you. And so, please, please, please!” Joyce raised her voice with each and every please, “Take it easy today?”

After a brief pause, Emily conceded and nodded her head with a sheepish smile.

Their moment was interrupted by the ringing of a doorbell.

“Oh?” Joyce turned her head away. “Just a moment, if you will?” Joyce walked out of the kitchen and a little bit down the hallway to what was likely the main door. Emily didn’t dare budge from her seat, lest she cause even more trouble for the kindest stranger she’d ever met. She could hear a conversation begin.

“Ms Summers, I don’t mean to rush you, but the car has been waiting for half an hour! I understand maybe taking a few minutes, but don’t you think this is a bit much?”

“Calm down George, what are they going to do, fire me?” Emily could hear Joyce laugh a bit at her own remark.

“Either way, we need to go, please!” The man sounded as if he were almost begging.

“Okay, okay. Just a second, I have to say my goodbyes.”

“Goodbyes?” The sound of a door suddenly closing made itself known, and Joyce appeared back in the kitchen.

“Did I make you late?” Emily asked, already beginning to feel seeds of regret.

“No, you kept me company.” Joyce corrected as she grabbed her handbag off the counter. “Time’s obviously a little short right now, though, but here’s the rundown: I want you to rest here today. Feel free to use the couch, tv, kitchen, bathroom and so forth. If I were you, I’d want to change right about now, but unfortunately there isn’t anything for you to wear that’d fit, so you’ll have to make do. There’s a computer in my office for you to send out your email whenever, and feel free to browse if that’s your thing.” Joyce took a brief pause, reaching the end of her laundry list. “And also, I didn’t bathe you last night, so don’t forget to take a shower!” Joyce joked as she was already walking out. “I’ll be back at around 5!” She shouted to Emily, farther away now. Emily could hear the doorbell ring once more. “I’m coming George!” Joyce yelled in an irritated tone, opening the door and quickly shutting it behind her.

Emily sat there blankly, taking everything in once more. She now had this giant home to herself for hours, and was being told to enjoy it to the fullest extent. She was fine being dressed this way since it was just her; all she had to do was rest. But wait, bathe her? Emily remembered what she hoped was a joke made by Joyce. Emily blushed, already trying to forget about the thought.

 


 

2 - Relaxing

Emily walked down the hallway, searching for Joyce’s office. She may have the entire day to relax, but she could get it started sooner by doing the one small task entrusted to her first. Emily looked at her choices, there being four doors (aside from the room she slept in) to choose from. Turning the knob of the nearest one, Emily opened the door to find a large bathroom, but that was for later. Either way,  not an office. Shutting the door and moving on to the next, it was another room, probably Joyce’s. She didn’t take time to ogle out of respect for her rescuer’s privacy.

The next door was locked, meaning it probably wasn’t that either, but the final door out of process of elimination looked to be it. An L-shaped desk was set up in the corner, and was mounted by a few monitors, notebooks, binder, and the rest of the office essentials. Emily pulled out the chair and faced herself in front of the monitors, looking down to see there were in fact two computers. On the rightmost one there was a small sticky note attached, labeled ‘BUSINESS’

“A computer just for business, and another for everything else…” Emily muttered to herself in amazement. Living life lavishly truly had its perks, and was especially intimidating to witness firsthand. The computer tower was already humming softly to indicate it was already on, and Emily shook the mouse to bring the computer out of its slumber. Instantly the screen lit up and she was quick to write and send out a proper email. Putting the computer back to sleep, Emily closed the office back up and was ready to start her day.

It was only then though did the hunger really start to hit her. She’d barely had anything to eat or drink since lunch at work yesterday. It did feel a bit impolite, invading Joyce’s fridge; but she did tell her to, after all...

Keeping it simple, she made some eggs and toast with a glass of orange juice. Biting into her food, she couldn’t help but note its unexpected quality! Be it the ingredients or appliances used to prepare them, it was certainly a better meal than she could ever prepare back at her old place.

After finishing, she looked longingly at the fridge once more, already aware of how she was restraining herself from indulging too much. Yes, she was hungry, but then she’d not only feel like a glutton, but she was also taking advantage of Joyce’s kindness. Despite being told to relax, her actions needed to be careful and calculated, so not to make Joyce regret her own kindness. The dishes and pan were washed, and next on her checklist was the bathroom.

It was a spacious, tiled room with orange lights that gave the atmosphere a warm glow. The centerpiece to the room was the tub itself; surrounded by steps, and a lowered ceiling that was an expansive shower head! On one end of the tub there were two handles for a faucet, and one for what Emily assumed to be for the shower portion. Near the sink was a pair of two large cabinets, opening them to find countless towels and amenities. Grabbing just the essentials, Emily set them beside the tub and started the water; the gushing flow already warm to the touch within seconds. It wasn’t every day Emily had a chance to bathe. She’d always have to be on the go and couldn’t afford a long soak, but today she could--and, it was also convenient for her foot.

After enough time, when the water was filled to a reasonable height, Emily cut the water and had already stripped herself of her two articles of clothing and stepped into the water. It was pure bliss as she eased into the large tub. Easily she could have fit four more of herself in the tub; the sheer size was almost overwhelming. She rested her head along the curved edge where there was already cushioning attached. With her legs splayed out, and almost sitting up, the water coasted just beneath her shoulders; tiny waves bobbing from the shockwave of her entering the glorified hot tub.

This home truly was like a fantasy and a dream to many much like herself. She knew it couldn’t last, but she knew to enjoy it for as long as possible. It was almost funny to imagine what she’d do if Joyce had told her to stay put. With the soap and conditioner she took out, Emily performed her routine (much slower than usual, of course) and allowed herself to simply soak. The euphoria was indescribable, just from lying there. She even let out a yawn, and then her eyes started to feel a little droopy.

“Maybe for just a second…” Emily bargained with herself as she closed her eyes, clearly for more than just a second. Alone with her thoughts, and the noise of a bathroom fan, she quickly dozed off and fell into a slumber.

“Hnnn….ah!” Emily stirred for a moment, then jolted herself awake from the swishing of water. “Ah…?” Emily looked around, confused for a moment, trying to remember what she was doing. “Aww...damn!” Called back to the task at hand, she somehow fell asleep while in the bath.

Feeling all pruny, Emily was quick to press the drain button on the mounted console, as water slowly swirled into the center drain.

“How long have I been in here?” She wondered, stretching away the fatigue. Emily looked at a high set window on the other end of the bathroom, and from what she could tell, not too much time had passed. Reluctantly, she stepped out of the water and draped a towel that seemed to fit quite well around her figure, and walked over to the sink to wash up while she dried off. She grabbed a smaller towel for her hair; it being somewhat shorter than Joyce’s--something she oddly noticed.

After enough time, her blacker-than-usual hair was returning to its original shade as most of the excess water was gone. Unsure of what to do with them, Emily folded her towels and placed them next to the tub and returned the other things she had used. Reminding herself to ask Joyce what she should do with the towels when she gets back, Emily put her sole pair of panties back on and then the nightgown. It did feel kind of strange being in practically pajamas during what felt like daytime, but it was all she had to work with. The light was flicked off and the fan came with it, as a much cooler draft welcomed her back into the rest of the apartment. With really nothing else to do, Emily flopped onto the thick-cushioned couch and looked on at the tv as she gave it life with a nearby remote.

Flipping through channels, it took a bit of searching until she could find something to be satisfied with. From then on it would be a day of lounging and relaxation. She stared at the high ceiling, still trying to accept what has happened to her and what has been done. A total stranger, someone she’d never met before was so willing to stick their neck out for her. The idea felt foreign to her, and the same could especially be said for the irony of a stranger treating her better than Jack did. Without even glancing at something that could give her an inkling of what time it was, Emily listened to the sounds of the tv and fell into sleep again. But before she could do that, the apartment was filled with a doorbell’s ring.

Huh? Who was that supposed to be? Sitting up from the couch, carefully walking over to the door, Emily stepped down into the shoe area and on her toes peeked through the peephole. Of course, she had no idea who this person was, nor what they wanted. Warped by the wide lens, she could see they were wearing some kind of white lab coat. A doctor’s coat maybe?

“Hello? Emily? Are you in there?” The new stranger knocked on the door this time.

How did she know her name? Emily was puzzled as she reluctantly turned the handle and opened the door. She was adjusting her glasses when she saw Emily open the door, putting on a happy face.

“Great, you must be Emily.” She greeted her, giving a small wave.

“Hi,” Was all Emily could say for a moment. “I don’t mean to be rude, but how do you know my name?”

The woman was a bit taken aback by Emily’s confusion, brushing past Emily and already entering the apartment with a bag about the size of a normal purse.

“You’re kidding, right?” The woman asked as she made her way into the kitchen, already knowing the way. Emily shut the door behind her, following her in tow. “Did Ms.Summers not tell you I was coming?”

“No, she didn’t…” Emily trailed off. She didn’t know how to feel. This person seemed familiar with being here, but she had no way of knowing who they were to Joyce, but at the least they were on a professional level.

“I apologize for the confusion,” She was sifting through her bag on the table. “Ms.Summers called me earlier this morning, asking me to make a visit here to look at your foot.” She was pulling out a pair of latex gloves. “You can call me Doctor Hall.” she stretched out her hand, Emily shaking it in reply, still caught off guard by an in-home visit from a doctor in a stranger’s home.

“I’m Emily, it’s nice to meet you.”

While Doctor Hall was washing her hands, she said to Emily, “If you could just sit in a chair for me, please? That way I can take a quick look at the injury.”

Not wanting to waste the woman’s time, Emily pulled out one of the chairs and turned it from the table, sitting down. It felt awkward not having to do anything else, but the sudden reminder of what she was wearing returned a few shades of embarrassment to her face. The doctor either didn’t care, or knew too well how to pay no mind to it though, as she slipped her gloves on and set her bag beside her on the floor while taking a professional, yet gentle hold of Emily’s foot.

Nonetheless, it caused her to wince out of reflex, and tried to take a deep breath in the solace that she was still likely in good hands now. Doctor Hall poked and prodded her foot in certain spots and gave other areas around the ankle light taps. She’d ask Emily to try moving her foot and roll it, sizing up what she was looking at. Satisfied, she set Emily’s foot down again and went back into her bag.

“Well, it’s nothing serious, just a minor sprain, it seems.” Doctor Hall said, pulling out what looked like gauze. “However,” she continued, beginning to wrap Emily’s foot. “Better to nip the problem in the bud before it has time to bloom, as they say…”

“Will I be able to work tomorrow?” Emily asked.

“Tomorrow?” She took a moment to consider. “What kind of work do you do?”

“Office work. But some days I have to move files from different departments in my building, so I guess walking is part of the job.”

“Coming from a doctor that cares for her patients? If you stay off your foot today, and keep it well-iced, I would say you would probably be in decent shape to be working at the desk. But in the long-run and for what possibly may come your way? It’s a definite no. I’d give it a couple of days, at least.”

“A couple of days?” The estimate was a little shocking. “Do I really need to wait that long?”

“In the end you’re your own person.” The doctor shrugged as she finished wrapping Emily’s foot. “If I were you though, I would wait until my foot is back in good shape before I start going back to my daily routine. Worst case if you do choose to work tomorrow, you could potentially prolong the injury and find yourself in a position even worse than now. Best case? Well, consider it a lucky gamble you shouldn’t have been making in the first place.”

Emily still looked unsure as Doctor Hall discarded her gloves into the trash bin and grabbed her bag, standing up. “You can ask Ms.Summers for my contact information if you’d like a direct referral to take some time off of work. Just remember what I said, should you choose to bite the bullet. Don’t forget to keep ice on your foot for today, regardless of what happens tomorrow. She was already making her way to the door when Emily suddenly realized she was leaving unpaid.

“Wait!”

Doctor Hall turned around for a moment to look at her.

“Don’t you need my full name, credit card or something for the bill? The address might be an issue though, so-”

“Already taken care of. Ms.Summers insisted on the bill going under her name. She requested that I didn’t even talk numbers with you. Enjoy the rest of your day!”

With that, Doctor Hall took her leave, and Emily was alone again, dumbstruck. Already paid for? Why was Joyce doing so much on her behalf? That woman was of a breed Emily couldn’t even begin to understand. However, she quickly resigned the thought, for now, and grabbed some ice from the freezer. Resting her foot on a pillow and an ice pack on top, Emily was able to find comfort once again with where she lie, with a slightly less irritated ankle.

 

Emily opened her eyes to find she’d slipped into another nap for, again, who knows how long. Turning a bit to notice the blanket that had been draped over her, she also noticed how her foot was just as numb from the cold as it’d been when she slept. Did someone change the ice out? Her ears then picked up on the humming from the kitchen, accompanied by a wonderful smell dancing past her nose. Looking out the large windows that lined the wall of the apartment, the sky was of a much more orange shade now. Not wanting to leave the blanket, Emily carried it with her like a cloak to the kitchen. Sure enough it was Joyce, her hair pulled back as she worked on some sort of meal. She was in a much more relaxed outfit now, a long sleeve shirt and smooth charcoal pants.

Joyce turned around to see her, and if she was surprised to see her, she did a good job of hiding it.

“Finally awake, are we?” She smiled.

“How long have I been asleep?”

“Since I got home a few hours ago, that long, at least.” Joyce stirred something in a nearby pot.

“I’m sorry for being asleep, if I had known you were back I…”

“Don’t even think about it,” Joyce was quick to respond, but just as focused on the cooking. “You’re doing exactly as I instructed, and you’re making yourself at home. Anything less and I’d have been sure to scold you.” Joyce again let a small laugh at her own teasing. “But I’ve been dying to know, what did Doctor Hall say about your foot?”

“Oh, well she said I would technically be fine to go back tomorrow, but she said I should wait a few days for a full recovery…” Granted, if it were a few days, Emily would have to start thinking about where she could stay for a more long-term situation. It stressed her out even thinking how she should have already gotten started on this earlier today.

“Okay then.” Joyce blankly replied as she unloaded a tray of what looked like garlic bread from the oven. “I’ll have to know what you like in advance for what to eat then.”

“Wait, what?” Emily almost broke into a stammer, Joyce yet again being a box full of surprises.

“Well, if you’re going to be staying here I should at least accommodate you properly.” She nonchalantly spoke, looking to Emily as if it were a given.

“Joyce, I can’t thank you enough for what you’ve already done. I’m already in your debt so much there’s no way I can make you do more for me! I’m practically a stranger to you!”

“First,” Joyce was getting plates out of the cabinet. “There is no debt, only kindness from one friend to another. Second,” The silverware came out next. “You already said yourself that no one was around to take you in, yet here you are with someone more than willing to do that. Third,” Then the glasses. “Having company here for an extended time is rare for me. You might think it’s weird, but I like having company every once and awhile. These opportunities aren’t exactly common for me. And finally,” She opened the fridge. “What would you like to drink?”

“Joyce, please. I can figure something out on my own. I can’t be a burden to you like this anymore. You paid my medical bills!”

“Emily,” Joyce assumed that firm tone from earlier this morning. “I appreciate your thoughtfulness for how I handle my finances, but frankly, they are mine and not yours.” It certainly was a bold, yet factual stance. “What I choose to do with my money is my business, and I choose to use it on you. Instead of worrying about what I do for you, it’d make me much happier that you take the time to enjoy the things I do for you. In the end, I can’t make you stay; but I want you to know how happy it would make me if you did. Think about today. Didn’t it feel good? Being able to take the day off for once? I know it’s only been a day, but I really don’t mind becoming something more than strangers.” Joyce didn’t feel like waiting and was already pouring some kind of drink for her, finishing her little speech.

“Joyce…” How was she supposed to respond? She had trouble finding the words. Joyce wanted this, and Emily knew it would be convenient for her, so why was she fighting this? Was it a matter of values or something? She didn’t even know herself.

“Please. Let me take care of everything?” Joyce finally stopped to look at Emily sincerely, giving what felt like her complete, undivided attention.

With a final sigh, Emily sat down in the chair and hung her blanket over the back of it. Her bare thighs felt cold making contact with the bare wood, the adjustment in temperature feel being a bit hard to make. Joyce seemed to have sensed her compliance, because she took their plates and already started to load them.

“I hope you like pasta,” She said, moving on to the pot of sauce. “It’s one of my all-time favorite dishes.”

Pasta did sound good, and if it was anything like the breakfast from this morning it was sure to be good.

“Sounds great.” Emily said, part of her mind still hanging on their conversation from a moment earlier.

“So I’m curious,” Joyce finished their plates and set them in their respective spots, once across from the other. “What did you have for lunch today?”

“Lunch? Oh,” It then occurred to her she really didn’t have anything. “I actually didn’t have anything.”

“Well you should start. My food is your food, and sticking to a constant meal cycle is good for you.”

Yes, this was true. Yet this wasn’t something she didn’t know. Emily took her first bite into the angel hair pasta, covered in a layer of rich sauce and lightly powdered in parmesan. The first bite was amazing. Everything blended so well together in an indescribable taste. She felt like she was eating at a restaurant right now! What was the secret? Was it the cook? The ingredients? Emily was dying to know.

“How is it?” Joyce took another casual bite of her food.

“It’s...amazing!” Emily exclaimed. “How do you get it to taste this good? It feels like I’m sitting at a restaurant right now!” Better put a luxury hotel. After using much of Joyce’s apartment, it was clear that this wasn’t a far cry from being one--maybe even better.

“Glad to hear my cooking receives such high praise!” Joyce continued eating.

“Do you eat like this every night?”

“Not every night,” Joyce pondered the thought. “Sometimes I have business dinners to attend, or I like to eat out instead. Food’s always better when someone else makes it for you.” It went without saying, but did Joyce honestly not consider this good food? “For times like this I don’t mind cooking for a guest. It’d be poor etiquette otherwise.”

“Speaking of business,” Emily took another bite, and then another. “What do you do for work? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“Oh, I…” Joyce seemed to be calculating her answer. “I have a high position in a company that helps manufacture things for hospitals.”

“Oh, okay. Like, bioengineering or something?” Emily poked further, wondering why the answer was so dumbed down.

“In a way, I suppose.” Joyce kept to her cryptic answers. “But what about you? What do you do for work?

“I have a desk job at this real estate office, not like I could ever afford anything there haha.”

“Oh? Any company I might know?”

“It’s called Luxury Estate?” While the company did handle high-end properties, it did include much more down to earth and affordable ones as well.

“Oh right, now I know. The international one!”

“Mhm,” Emily took a sip of her drink, finding it to be iced tea; equally as delicious as her meal. “Now if you don’t mind me asking, how old are you?” Emily couldn’t help but feel curious to find the answer. She couldn’t put her finger on it. Joyce looked so full of youth, had a great figure, and was tall...Unlike others who could not be as blessed. Yet, she had this aura around her that made her seem so...mature? Maybe that’s what it took to survive at the level she worked at?

“My, you’re being quite forward aren’t you?” Joyce gave Emily a little grin as the pair ate.

Her remark quickly had Emily backtracking, suddenly realizing how rude she was being. “If it was too much to ask, I-”

“32. I just turned 32 last month.”

32?! Emily was shocked for different reasons. She looked so young, but she seemed to be at an age where she wouldn’t look as great as she did now!  And to be so young at the same time, wouldn’t it take years upon years to reach the kind of place she was in now? The kind of time that’d make your age closer to 40 at the minimum?

“Wow…” was all Emily could say.

“Wow?” Joyce raised an eyebrow. “Now I’m worried, is that good or bad?”

“Good! It’s good, really. You just seem so...accomplished.”

“I hope so,” Joyce chewed her food. “ To reach somewhere like this has been some time in the making. I know it usually takes others a bit longer, but both luck and skill play their parts for something like this. But now I need to know, how old are you?”

“26.” Emily said. The age gap was only six years, but it was a whole six years. She felt light-years away from the kind of success Joyce had, and highly doubted that she could ever reach something like Joyce’s stature. Still, Joyce seemed almost as young as Emily was, apparently Joyce has brains and beauty on her side.

“Looks like I’m six years your senior.” Joyce spoke in an almost playful voice, with her plate almost cleared.

They continued their small talk as dinner came to a close. Despite Emily insisting that she help, Joyce took on the task of cleaning up all by herself, happy to do something for someone else every once in awhile. Emily then excused herself to the bathroom, walking in and by the tub, quickly realizing that she forgot about the towels, and yet they weren’t where she had left them?

“Joyce, I’m sorry, I forgot to ask you what to do with the towels.” Emily said, finishing her business a second ago.

“That? Don’t worry about it. I saw them on the way in to take a shower. I don’t remember telling you what to do with them, so you’re not at fault,” Joyce had just finished washing the dishes and set them out to dry. “Still though, you must have been in there for a good two hours? What did you do, fall asleep in there?”

“How did you know I was in…?” Puzzled, she stared at Joyce for a response, but suddenly felt her eyes drifting around the room, connecting the dots as she could see a tiny security camera mounted in one of the corners. “You were...spying on me?” Emily suddenly felt a sense of betrayal.

Realizing how she made Emily feel, though, Joyce was quick to try and amend the situation. “No, no, please don’t misunderstand! These things were here long before you arrived. They’re for security purposes, of course. It’s my daily routine to review the footage, with you in the shot or not. And...it’s not that I don’t trust you, but on some level as you said earlier, we’ve just met. And if it makes you feel any better, I don’t have a camera in the bathroom, or any of the bedrooms.”

The air certainly felt awkward now, even though part of Emily knew Joyce was justified in her actions, it wasn’t pleasant to suddenly find out she’d been on recording for the entire day. But it had been only a day. She was still a complete stranger despite their brief yet meaningful interactions. She paced her mind trying to remember if she’d done anything worth worrying over, but if she hadn’t been confronted over something now, there wasn’t anything noteworthy to begin with.

“I’m sorry. It was something I should have told you earlier. Just being here for so long makes it second nature, I suppose. But believe me, your privacy is assured while you’re here.”

“It’s fine.” Emily said, not even sure if she believed what she was saying. “Like you said, it’s no biggie. It was just a surprise hearing there are cameras. But you have your reasons, of course.

“Thank you for being so understanding. Truth be told, they came with the apartment when I got it. But let’s not talk about that anymore. I’m going to finish up cleaning here. In the meantime, you can take a look at some of the clothes I got for you to start wearing.

“Joyce! Please!” With a few simple words, Emily’s stress had already kicked back into high gear. Coming from a lifestyle where she was just a few steps away from pinching pennies, it didn’t sit well with her to have so much money be spent on her.

“I know you loved wearing my nightgown all day,” Emily blushed at the ‘my’ part. “But I figured you would start needing some more appropriate clothes, be it for work or anything else. And stop worrying! It’s only just a few things until that Jack fellow is back from whatever he is up to.”

Anxiously, Emily walked to the door where there were a couple of large shopping bags from store brands she’d only dream of shopping at casually.

“Take them into the living room!” Joyce shouted from the kitchen. “I need to see how they fit so they can be tailored if need be!”

Tailored? She had to be joking. Yet, judging from her track record thus far...it wasn’t likely. Maybe she was back at 5 because she was doing all this shopping for her…

“I said I got you some clothes, yet truthfully some of it was ballparking.” Joyce followed into the living room. “I know I said I can have a knack for sizes, but it’s not usually my forte to take these sorts of gambles.” She sat herself on the couch.

That was hard to believe. Emily sifted through one of the bags, already pulling underwear and socks out.

“The underwear should be fine though, I was able to get your size for that this morning. After getting you that pair last night I wanted to be sure before I made any real commitments.”

“Joyce...thank you so much…” She had no idea how she would ever repay Joyce for all of this--not that Joyce ever intended to let her.

“Like I mentioned earlier, this is nothing hon. Now enough about the price tags and try some stuff on! I need to know if any adjustments need to be made.”

Emily took all the sets of bras and panties with her into the bathroom, individually setting them apart to try each of them on. Shockingly, Joyce had gotten her seven sets, one for each day of the week. Looking all of them over, each was some shade of dark blues, purples, pinks, grays and black. Unlike what she was used to wearing, they all had some form of design be it in stripes or small white dots all across. She slipped the nightgown off and so with the panties too. Grabbing the first pair, she slid the bottoms on and sure enough they were a perfect fit, and the bra as well. She even noticed the stark change in quality feel, as the material felt wonderful to the skin, and hugged her figure. Cycling through all the other pairs, they were sure enough identical in quality and fit.

“Like you guessed it, everything was perfect.” Emily said, back in the simple nightgown and underwear.

And as she returned them to the bags, she wasn’t positive, but almost could have sworn she heard maybe the slightest bit of disappointment in Joyce’s voice, when she said “You tried all of them in there?”

“Mhm, they feel really nice too.” Emily shrugged off the thought. How was it realistic to be sad over something like that?

“Great then, let’s have you try the rest on.”

And so she did. After excusing herself to put one of the new sets of underwear on (feeling stupid for having taken the last pair off, anyways), Emily showcased herself in the rest of the clothing, much to the approval of both.

“Well, there could be a few minor adjustments to be made on some of the clothes, but I’m thankful I could get away with as much as I did.” Joyce looked content, as Emily packed the rest away.

“I’ll say,” Emily meant it too. Truly luck had been on her side when Joyce shopped for her. It felt otherworldly to have such high quality clothes, and for such a pleasant fit too. Her normal clothes fit, of course, but there was something about expensive clothes that separated themselves from what was pristine, and what was...well, generic.

“But I think that button-up should at least stay like that.” Joyce pointed out to the pajama set Emily was wearing. The top and bottom were light purple and made of silk (a wonderful feeling), and had sleeves that stretched just up to her palms, giving it a slightly oversized look. Other than that, the pants were just as form-fitting as the rest (and even accentuated her bum, a bit), and had the slightest bit of extra length on them as well.

“You think?”

“Definitely, not everything has to fit the figure to be cute, you know.” Emily blushed at Joyce’s remark, trying to casually play it off, as Joyce couldn’t help but eat up the flustered girl’s emotions. “But with our last job for the night finished, all that’s left to do is relax.”

The pair laid themselves on the couch for the rest of the night, and it was spent watching tv and lounging. It didn’t take long though for Joyce to stay on top of Emily for not having ice on her foot, which was quickly rectified.

Becoming drowzy, Emily finally nodded herself off on the couch, just awake long enough to feel suspended in the air, and then gently crashing her head into something soft. It was only her first day meeting Joyce, but she already felt like an irreplaceable person in her life. Not for the money, but for the genuine care and concern she had for her. Who knew what tomorrow would bring?

 


 

3 - A Night Out

Time truly did seem to fly, being with Joyce. Agreeing to take the next few days off with the aid of Doctor Hall’s referral, Emily was able to receive three more excused days off work. She would have been fine with one or two, but both Doctor Hall and Joyce pressured her to take more time to heal. Every day Emily would perform her daily routine, then have a scheduled nap and wake up to find Joyce cooking another wonderful meal for dinner that night. In this time the two had grown closer and the transition from strangers to friends had been fast and swift. Emily still continued to fret over staying in Joyce’s company for too long, but Joyce would only shoot down every complaint she made. And sure enough, what was considered Emily’s life now started to feel normal; even if it had been days since she stepped foot outside, there was comfort in the solitude of Joyce’s home.

Doctor Hall came back on Emily’s last official day of recovery to inspect her foot again, satisfied with the results. What was once a red and slightly purple sight, had now receded considerably and was more pink than anything else. Regardless, Emily was much more happy with their second interaction compared to the first, considering she was much more “clothed” now, snug in jeans and a t-shirt--both articles of course sporting their expensive logos.

“Looks good, Emily.” Hall discarded the bandages in the bin with her gloves. “Just keep ice on it for the rest of the weekend and there shouldn’t be a problem going back to work.”

Work.

The idea felt almost foreign to her now. It had only been a few days, but she already felt so out of her usual rhythm. What’s more, the weekend was already here, meaning she would have two more days off until she went back; surely making the adjustment even tougher on her.

The two said their goodbyes and Emily was on her own again for a short while, until Joyce soon came walking through the door in her usual business attire. “Good to see you after working all day,” Joyce let out a sigh as she took a moment to sit on the couch.

“Well, you know where I’ve been.” Emily took a sip from her bottle of water, tapping her feet rhythmically on the wooden floor.

“Well?” Joyce looked at Emily with an expecting look, a cue Emily didn’t pick up on. “Don’t you want to tell me what the doctor said?”

Feeling dumb for not noticing sooner, “Right! She said my foot is more or less fine now. Just take it easy for the rest of the weekend and I should be ready to go back Monday.”

“You’re already going back?” Joyce said with a small tinge of disappointment in her voice.

“Well I mean, yeah. My foot definitely feels better, and I’ve already taken off so much time from work. It wouldn’t feel right prolonging this kind of thing.”

“I suppose…” Joyce seemed a bit lost in deep thought over something, but seemed to snap out of it quickly, exclaiming, “But we need to celebrate,” She said it in a matter-of-factly kind of voice. “Your foot is all better now.”

“Celebrate? My foot is still in recovery, she said it was going to be fine with some more rest.”

“Kids have early birthdays all the time, it’s the same thing with a foot recovering.” Joyce reasoned with the absurd connection. “And don’t worry, I know just the place we can go. That way you won’t have to do much walking. Just leave it all to me.”

“Joyce, we really don’t have to-”

“Think of it as a celebration to our friendship then.” She seemed adamant about this whole, ‘going out’ thing. “Had it not been for your mishap we wouldn’t have met, no? To happy accidents, as they say.”

It was clearly another argument Emily was not going to win. With a little more convincing, she agreed to Joyce’s terms, knowing that she’d not be allowed to spend a single dime on their “little dinner” that night.

Joyce had outfits prepared for them in advance. A black, charcoal cocktail dress for herself, and a skater dress made up of shades of blue for Emily. With a little makeup, the pink blemish on her ankle from before was just about completely undetectable now, and after slipping on their shoes for the night they were ready. Right before exiting the apartment, Emily caught her first glance of Joyce in her outfit; a magnificent form, and only complimented by her masterful makeup work.

“Wow, you look amazing.” Was all Emily could say.

“You look nice yourself. Maybe we should do these things more often?”

Out of concern for Joyce’s bottomless finances, Emily hoped they didn’t.

For the first time in days, Emily set foot outside of Joyce’s apartment, and made her re-entry into reality. Joyce must have been thinking the same thing too, when she said, “Welcome back to the outside world! I know it’s been a while, so let me know if you need to be brought up to speed on things.” She laughed, and so did Emily.

They walked down the hallway, lined with a patterned rug, half-circle tables decorating empty parts of the walls, topped by vases filled with plants. They reached an elevator and Joyce pressed the down button, waiting in brief silence. Seeing the distance they had walked and riding the elevator to the top, it was a tough feat to comprehend how Joyce could have carried her all the way up here…

“Did you really carry me all the way up here by yourself?”

“Believe it or not, I did. I may not look strong, but I like to fit some exercise into my work breaks whenever I can. And you’re pretty light, I should add.”

Was she really? Last time she had checked she weighed maybe about 110lb for being only 5’6”, but apparently Joyce really did work out for that to be doable. Not only that, but how could she be this heavy of a sleeper?

Her thoughts were interrupted by the ding of the elevator opening--no one being inside to greet them. Pressing the ground floor button, Emily watched as the digital number descended from 27 to 1. The entire time, all Emily could hear was Joyce’s soft humming, a tune she’d grown quite accustomed to. She didn’t know what it reminded her of, but it was soothing nonetheless. The doors opened, and they rounded the corner into a very wide lobby with a shorter than expected ceiling. It came off as very minimalist: just enough to make the place look nice, but not feel cluttered. But it was all relative, of course. She may have called it minimalist, but it was leagues upon leagues better than the lobby to her old place. There was a large black rug leading to the entrance, and black leather couches for waiting lined on top of the white marble floor. They walked past a desk worker and straight to the door, where a doorman was already waiting with an open door.

“Thank you, Charles.” Joyce politely thanked him in a reserved tone--nothing like how she spoke to Emily. With her, there was a sense of...care in her voice when she spoke. But to this man and like the one who complained to her for being late, she seemed to be more or less stone cold to them. There was gratitude, but also...distance. Out on the sidewalk a black car was parked and waiting for them. A chauffeur was holding the backseat door open, and Joyce gave Emily the privilege of sliding in first. Joyce followed suit and slipped in next, having the door shut behind her. The chauffeur entered the driver’s seat and politely asked, “Where will it be tonight, Ms.Summers?”

“Carmine’s.” Was all Joyce said.

“Sure thing. We should be there soon.”

A divider suddenly rose between them and the driver, allowing the two some privacy. The windows were also tinted as well, reminding Emily of the movies where the bad guy would always unroll the window to his limo to talk to the protagonist. Other than that, Emily could almost instinctively feel the tension around Joyce dissipate now that they were alone.

“Sorry about that. I didn’t tell the driver in advance where we were going.”

“That’s fine…” Emily was still taking in her new situation. “What kind of place is Carmine’s anyways?”

“Italian. If my cooking already wasn’t a tell, I’m quite fond of the cuisine...and wine.”

Emily harbored no objections to the choice in food. If Joyce figured it was worth showing, it was more than likely out of this world compared to Emily’s standards.

Staring out of the window at the city nightlife, it was a spectacle to be seeing all of this from the other side. Not once had she driven a car in the city for the time she had been there. Her job paid well enough, but not enough to support the upkeep of a car in the city. Buying one was one thing, but paying the price to conveniently store it and gas upkeep was another. To Emily it was far more convenient to rely on walking and public transportation.

After about 15 minutes of driving the car came to a halt, the driver coming around to let Emily and Joyce out of the vehicle. Without even looking back at him, Joyce said: “Come back to pick us up in a couple of hours.”

“Yes ma’am.”

Without question, and like an obedient servant, the chauffeur got back into the car and pulled back onto the road.

Staying close by Joyce’s side, they weaved through the passerby on the sidewalk. Stepping into the restaurant, the walls were decorated with traditional landscape photos and art of iconic locations and sights from Italy. The place was packed with people as equally dressed for the occasion as they were, if not more. Walking up to the receptionist with a book set on his podium, he was busy reading through the list to give Joyce any notice.

“Do you have a reservation?” He asked, his eyes still busy inspecting the paper.

“I’m sorry, I’m afraid we don’t.” His expression didn’t change, but he already seemed ready to turn them away. “But I was hoping you’d be able to squeeze my friend and I here into one of your booths, perhaps?”

“My apologies ma’am, but we cannot seat you without a-” His voice trailed off as he finally took the time to see who he was speaking with.

“Ms.Summers! It’s wonderful to see you again! Please forgive my rudeness a moment ago, you know how the regulations are!” He tried to laugh off what looked like a big mistake.

“No problem at all. So is a booth doable for us tonight?” Joyce didn’t seem fazed by his attitude, not that Emily could understand why their interaction seemed so off. Had Joyce forgot to make reservations?

“Most certainly! Please, come this way.” Personally, the receptionist escorted them to a booth in the corner of the restaurant. Emily couldn’t help but notice Joyce’s face had gotten a few more heads to turn. Just who was she in the public eye?

The man handed each of them a meal and drink menu, plates and silverware already being set up for them.

“Please do take your time. Whenever you are ready, just flag down one of the servers, they’ll be sure to forward your order immediately. And also, you ladies are both looking quite lovely tonight.”

Joyce playfully laughed at his remark as he walked away, and Joyce quickly turned back into the person Emily so familiar with.

Emily leaned in and asked, “What was that all about?”

“Oh, him? Nothing to worry about. I’m a bit of a…’valued guest’ here. Good friends with the owner.”

“Okay...but some of the people eating here looked like they knew you too?” That ‘high position’ was starting to sound a bit higher...

“Some of their new items sound absolutely delicious, don’t they?” Joyce politely dodged her question, looking busy with the menu, and also dropping a hint that she didn’t want to talk about that right now. “Anything look good to you?”

Emily looked down the menu, doing her best to avoid the prices that followed them. There was some stuff on here she had never even heard of before. What was an ‘ossobuco’?

“I’m not really sure…” Emily admitted. “I don’t even know what some of the stuff on here is…”

“Pick whatever sounds good to you hon,” Joyce already put down the food menu. “It’s my treat, so feel free to explore if you so choose. Don’t forget we’re here to celebrate.”

Emily browsed her menu for a little bit longer and finally decided on a plate of what she thought was pasta. Yes Joyce had just made it for her a few nights ago, but she didn’t want to risk wasting food this expensive on Joyce’s dime.

“And what do you want to drink?” Joyce asked her next.

“Oh, um...I’ll let you choose for the both of us.” Already feeling challenged enough by the food menu, she wasn’t going to try and tackle the wine choices next.

Joyce merely smiled at her answer, continuing to browse.

“Did I say something weird?” Emily had no idea what she’d done to amuse Joyce.

“Nothing. It’s just you being yourself, that’s all.”

Was that a good thing? Or a bad thing? It didn’t sound mocking, but that didn’t make it any much more clear to her. Completely unsure, Emily pried a bit more. “What do you mean by that?”

“It’s one of the many things I really appreciate about you, Emily,” She looked from her menu to the girl. “In my line of work it’s hard to meet people as nice as you without them having an ulterior motive. The difference between you and everyone else being that I’m the one who found you, and I know you’re trustworthy.”

“I mean, how can you be so sure?” Emily was starting to become a bit embarrassed from such high praise.

“For one, you didn’t try robbing me on day one. Two, no matter what I do for you, you always try and fight tooth and nail to somehow repay me for what I do. And three, even when I tell you to lean on me, you’re always so self-conscious about being the perfect house guest. It’s simply adorable!”

The ‘adorable’ part felt a bit off, but it was still honest compliments from Joyce and that made Emily feel all the better.

“Thank you Joyce, that means a lot to me. I’m...I’m glad I met you.”

“Likewise.”

It didn’t take long for Joyce to flag down a waitress and submit their orders under her name, leading to their meals arriving at most maybe half an hour later. A different waitress came with their meals, and then back again with a large bottle of red wine, pouring a fair amount in each of their glasses.

The food was unsurprisingly delicious. Even more than Joyce’s cooking, would you believe it. Had she been told that there was something better than Joyce’s cooking a few hours ago, Emily would have likely called bull. Joyce could see the pleasure on Emily’s face, as after each bite there was a small window reserved for only the occasional sip of wine.

“Slow down there kiddo, we’re not in any rush you know.” Joyce laughed as she took a few bites from her own plate, moving onto her second glass.

Soon, Joyce turned her head away to see a larger man approaching them, dressed in a chef’s attire, someone who Joyce instantly recognized.

“Antonio!”

“Ms.Summers!”

Joyce stood up from her seat to give the big man a proper hug.

“It’s so good to see you back in my restaurant again! Why didn’t you tell me personally? I would have had you in the VIP room ages ago!”

“Oh Antonio, sometimes I like to try living life on the ‘normal’ side,” she joked. Emily couldn’t help but laugh at the irony of her statement. Joyce’s ‘normal’ was Emily’s once in a lifetime experience.

“Either way, allow me to at least serve you and your friend some of my special wine? Free of charge!” The chef’s voice boomed throughout the restaurant, catching the attention of a few people sitting nearby.

“Well, I couldn’t possibly turn down a bottle if it was recommended by you Antonio! I’m sure we’ll love it!”

“Magnifico! I’ll send it to your table after you’ve finished your entrées! A great way to end the night! Bah! Listen to me talk, interrupting your time together! Please, please, finish your dinner and enjoy the rest of the night.” Antonio then turned back towards the kitchen, and the two were alone once again.

“Just how popular are you?” Emily took a quick glance at the rest of the restaurant, everyone seeming to have resumed their own dinner conversations.

“I already told you, I know the owner of this place. He just came to see me, that’s all.” Joyce maintained her relaxed tone as she treated the encounter as commonplace. “And he really does have great wine. You’ll be sure to like it, I’m positive.”

Emily wasn’t much of a wine drinker, nor was she a high-class restaurant goer either, but tonight was certainly full of exceptions.

They traded bites of their food, both being equally pleased with the other’s choice--not that anything they served here could even be considered bad. While Emily started her second glass of wine, Joyce was already on her third, showing no signs of change at all in her composure as she took a sip from her glass. On their last round, the glasses were soon empty and so were their plates. Their table was cleared and then came a small plate of what looked like gelato with a light chocolate sauce striped across it. The gelato itself had a strange pink tint to its whiteness, and was decorated with a graham cracker-looking type of square, sticking out of the side, looking oh-so absolutely delicious. On each side a small spoon was already plunged into the sweet-looking treat, and a bottle of wine came grasped in the hands of the chef they met earlier.

“Antonio, you didn’t have to get us dessert too!” Joyce exclaimed as she seemed to be eyeing the gelato as well.

“Nonsense! How do you expect to enjoy my wine without something sweet to go with it? Not only can you share a drink, but a personal favorite dessert of mine as well!” He tore off the paper wrapping to the bottle, and used a corkscrew to open up the bottle’s contents. “Only the finest for my dearest customers.” He said, pouring the dark red substance into two new wine glasses.

“Now please, I’ve disturbed you for long enough! Take the whole bottle for the night! I would not have it any other way!”

“You’re far too generous Antonio! Please, keep some for your other clients.”

“A bottle’s past its prime after the first time it’s been opened and drank, and therefore you must do me the pleasure of finishing it off! Hahaha!” He chuckled as he walked away. “I look forward to seeing you again, Ms. Summers!”

A spectator to their conversation once again, Emily felt a tad bit giddy over the man’s generosity and insistence to make the night so special. What they had alone was enough, but to even push beyond that was amazing! Emily’s focus turned back to their dessert, and already the smallest bit of rich, creamy goodness had begun to roll off the top of the perfect scoop and pool at the bottom of the plate. She couldn’t wait any longer for a taste as she went for her spoon, but was cut short when one was already inserted into her mouth. Following the handle, she saw Joyce had already made the first move, feeding a spoonful to her currently hypnotized friend. Joyce slipped out the spoon with a grin as Emily’s mouth didn’t allow the frozen dessert to leave like the spoon, and swallowed.

Absolutely amazing. It slowly melted at the touch of her tongue, as little gelato warriors in chocolate sauce armor assaulted her innocent and vulnerable taste buds. Her face melted into pure ecstasy as she completely digested the small sample. Joyce looked quite happy to have seen the spectacle, but Emily was too preoccupied to even mind. She wanted another bite, and badly.

“I can take it by the look on your face it’s quite good?” Joyce stifled a laugh as she took a spoonful for herself. Joyce had a similar reaction, albeit much more reserved, quite pleased with the taste as well. Emily took a sip of her wine next, followed suit by Joyce, to receive a just as amazing taste. The residue and aftertaste of the cream was washed away by the flavor of grape mixed with the light taste of alcohol, cleansing her throat with sweetness. The drink was beyond delicious! It was not sweet nor bitter, and had just the right consistency to be the perfect accent to their dessert. Emily had to reconsider her thoughts on wine after trying something as amazing as this, but to achieve this kind of quality would probably be a bit out of her budget.

“To a wonderful night, and our pleasant meeting.” Joyce raised her glass towards Emily, who returned the gesture with the clinking of glass.

“To us.” Emily giggled.

The two were making good on Antonio’s request to finish off the the entire bottle of wine. After a good amount of refills later from the both of them, the bottle became quite light in the ice bucket, and so did their heads. The gelato was finished off and Joyce’s cheeks were a slight bit redder than they were on the way in. Clearly a little bit intoxicated, Joyce was a bit more giggly around Emily, though she still maintained her composure towards others, like when calling for the check. Emily had done her best to limit herself, but she was feeling the buzz a little bit as well, knowing she was past her normal threshold. Their check came quickly, and Joyce slipped a black card into the pocket of the check holder without hesitation. The transaction was quickly processed and had the girls on their way in only a few minutes.

“Joyce, I had such an amazing time,” Emily said, walking by Joyce as she held open the door for her; a torrent of cold, city air washing over her. As if he knew, the chauffeur was already waiting with the car door open, the two slipping in and headed home.

“Emily, you have no idea how much I love having you here…” Joyce sighed as she stared off in clouded thought.

“Er, thanks, Joyce…” Emily wasn’t sure how to take the compliment, whether Joyce meant it 100%, or if that was partially the alcohol talking.

“I mean it,” She turned to face Emily. “It can just feel so...lonely at times being in that apartment alone. I know I helped you, but you have repaid me in full with your kindness and company…”

Did she really feel that way about her? Emily couldn’t help but feel happy over such kind words. Here she thought herself to be a complete freeloader, when in-fact she’d been doing something in return all along…

The rest of the drive was silent as they pulled up to the front door of the apartment building. They stepped out of the car while Emily took a second to find her land legs from all the alcohol she’d had that night. Joyce seemed to be taking it like a champ, however, drinking even more than Emily, and not showing so much of a sign in her motor skills. Just her emotions, mostly.

“Home, sweet home!” Joyce half-shouted as they walked into her apartment. Emily closed the door behind them, kicking off the shoes Joyce specially ordered for the night. Emily eyed Joyce as she shuffled off into the kitchen, noting the subtle, yet obvious differences when she was drunk. If anything she seemed more relaxed, yet still had this...maternal vibe about her. They were certainly friends, but Emily could always feel this motherly aura linger around Joyce. Not that it was a bad thing…

“I need to go undress.” Emily announced, walking to the room she’d been staying in. Everything felt a bit wobbly; still trying to assume her not-drunk self for long enough to just take her dress off. She scanned her hand across her back, trying to search for the tiny zipper that kept her locked in the dress that hugged her torso so well. It had almost been a minute of searching, and Emily’s heightened emotions got the better of her as she was becoming visibly and audibly frustrated.

“Come on...come on...damn it! Stupid zipper!” She sat down on the bed to take a mental breather, so not to throw a complete fit over something so trivial.

“Everything alriiight?” Joyce popped her head in, her shoes being taken off as well.

“No,” Emily pouted. “I can’t find this damn zipper on my back. Could you do it please?”

“Let me see what I can do sweetie…”

Sweetie? That was a new one. Emily stood up, while Joyce ran her finger up and down Emily’s back, searching for the zipper. The feeling was pleasant, having such sensitive areas touched by someone else...But then it stopped, feeling the light tug as Joyce pulled at the zipper.

“Down we go…” Joyce cooed as the zipper slowly followed suit.

“Joyce, I think you’re a bit out of it…” Emily said, uncertain of the new person she could feel behind her right now.

“And next we slip off the dress!” Joyce playfully continued, lowering Emily’s dress and exposing her in just her underwear.

“Um, that’s enough Joyce. I just needed you to get the zipper.” Emily said, starting to feel a little uncomfortable.

“Shhh…” Emily grew wide-eyed as she felt Joyce’s arms loosely wrap around Emily’s neck. “Let Mommy get you all ready for bed…”

“Joyce! Stop!” Emily was suddenly shouting, shoving Joyce away.

Emily stared at Joyce from her bed, dress at her ankles as she was practically naked in her underwear, unsure of who she was staring at right now.  Joyce came to her senses too, her sober thoughts catching up just a bit too late before the damage had already been done. She stared at Emily in disbelief of what she’d just done to the poor girl.

“I-I’m so sorry Emily, I don’t know what…” Her voice couldn’t find the words as Emily still looked confused and scared. Voice choking on tears, Joyce could only mutter an apology as she left Emily’s room, shutting the door behind her.

Idiot! idiot! idiot! Joyce couldn’t hold back the tears after she left Emily’s room, locking herself in her own. She laid down in her bed, sobbing for her mistake. Why did she do it?! Joyce internally berated herself, angry for doing what she did. Tonight was supposed to be special! So why? Why did she have to let her deepest desires get the better of her?

Please forgive me, Emily. Joyce teary-eyed, laid into her pillow, chasing out her fantasies and replacing them with terrible thoughts; flashes of her likely now permanently-damaged friendship. Even if she couldn’t have Emily in the way she really wanted, she didn’t want to lose such a precious friend...Emotionally unstable, Joyce wept silently until she tired herself out, and fell asleep in her dress from the night that had taken a turn for the worse.


 

4 - Confessions

Emily groggily stepped out of her room with a throbbing headache. Like with the fallout of any fun night, it was never pleasant. She hoped Joyce had an aspirin or something to make the pain go away…

Mommy.

She suddenly felt herself become uncomfortable after remembering last night’s events. Yes, she was confused, and yes, she was a little freaked out. But this was Joyce she was talking about. Maybe just she wasn’t the best with alcohol, or something...Emily racked her brain with reasoning for some kind of excuse or explanation that could somehow make her feel better about last night.

It was 10:00 AM and Joyce wasn’t anywhere to be found. Emily grew a little worried over not being able to find her. She wanted to talk about last night, and do something to get rid of these negative feelings about Joyce. She wanted to do anything in her power to know somehow that last night was a misunderstanding, and they could still be friends. Hopefully Joyce felt the same...Longingly she stared at the couch where they would always lounge about together. Why did things have to be this way?


 

Joyce rapidly typed away on her keyboard in her office, quite a distance away from her home--from Emily. She couldn’t bear to face Emily right now...not after what she’d done to her. Joyce didn’t even know how Emily felt about last night...She was such a terrible person, leaving a small and confused girl without any context about last night. She must be- No no no! Stop thinking about it! Joyce started typing faster, trying to occupy her mind from such thoughts. She still felt the lingering hangover, the curse that tempted her into slipping Emily into her own personal fantasy; taking advantage of her like that, how could she? Joyce could feel the tears coming. No matter what she did, she couldn’t stop thinking about last night. She didn’t even come in on Saturdays, but she was willing to do anything to get these awful thoughts out of her head. She wanted everything to go back to normal. Where she would come home to see Emily peacefully lazing about, so she could know that she had someone to come home to--to care for-.

Joyce suddenly stopped typing, covering her face as she couldn’t keep her emotional front up.
It was the best having Emily in her home, but all those times she called her a friend she really knew what she meant on the inside. She was lying to herself. What she had with Emily was only a tease of what she truly wanted. She wanted to be friends, but in reality, she just couldn’t bring herself to admit how much she wanted Emily in that way! God, please make these awful thoughts stop!


 

Emily could only pace around the house as she was filled with more and more uncertainty. She didn’t know where Joyce had gone, how she was feeling, or what she herself should do. Was she supposed to leave? Was this her way of saying to leave quietly? Frustration pushed her over the edge, as she wasn’t able to reach the one person who could answer these questions. Her cellphone was still broken, and Joyce did have a house phone, but Emily had no idea who to call to find her whereabouts. Emily was absolutely powerless and she hated it.

The hours passed from 11 to 12, and then to 1. From 1 to 2, and from there to 3. It had been five hours since Emily woke up, and her mild feelings of unrest only grew into a small panic for her dear friend. She hadn’t left her, had she? No, that was impossible. This was her home after all. Emily was still in her pajamas from this morning; purple-striped shorts with a thin short-sleeve to match. Another outfit Joyce had bought for her…

Emily couldn’t understand why she was experiencing these feelings she felt. The more time she had to stew on her own, it meant the more time she had to convince herself last night that Joyce’s “roleplay,” as Emily reasoned it, was something she probably didn’t want to show her...Was that all? Emily hoped so, because if it were, it would be only a small mishap that did nothing to their friendship! She stopped for a second to consider another thought: what would it take to threaten their relationship? Emily shook the idea out of her head, doing her best to stay positive. All she wanted to do was see and talk to Joyce…


 

Deep breaths. Deep Breaths. Joyce tried to calm herself as she walked down the hall to her apartment. Why was she so scared? It was her home. Emily was a guest there! Or so she told herself, knowing very well she was scared nonetheless to see Emily. Joyce could imagine it now: Emily had probably already packed up her things and left; a sensible thing to do. She was already gone, and their friendship came to an end like that. All on account of Joyce’s foolishness. Reaching her door, heart beating a mile a minute, Joyce braced herself for the worst and most likely outcome in her head as she turned open the lock and opened the door.

It was silent. She’d be able to hear the sound of a pin hitting the floor.

That’s it. She’s gone. You stupid, stupid-!

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of feet rushing across the floor, still registering the sound of running before she could feel herself be embraced in the arms of a black-haired girl that came up to just above her chest.

“Emi…” Joyce was beyond surprised to see her in front of her right now, much more in her arms.

“Where have you been?” Joyce could hear Emily choking back a few tears.

She had hurt her even further. Joyce’s heart broke to pieces. Joyce returned Emily’s embrace and hugged her tightly as well.

“I’m so sorry, Emily,” Joyce maintained her composure and did her best to stay strong. “Last night I crossed a line with you, and…”

“Please!” Emily interrupted her, turning her head to get the words out properly. “Just talk to me. I want to know what happened. I haven’t been able to reach you all day!”

Joyce kept beating herself internally, no evident she kept Emily so isolated. She had the convenience of being able to leave with her thoughts, whereas Emily was forced to sort them here. Emily had proved her wrong once; it was only right to come clean with her.

“Okay.”


 

Emily loosened her grip around Joyce to give her some space, her heart rapidly pounding in her chest. Why was her heart beating so fast? Why did she feel so relieved to see her again? Nothing made sense, but now knowing that Joyce was still here put her somewhat at ease.

“Let’s just, sit down first…” Joyce started to feel a bit uneasy again, having to give one of the biggest confessions in her life, to someone she started to feel increasingly sensitive towards.

The pair walked over to the couch, unsure of what Joyce had to tell her. Emily didn’t know what to expect, but this kind of build-up instinctively made her feel that it was significant. Emily sat on one end of the couch while Joyce did the other. There was a bit of silence between the two, while Joyce looked more focused than she had ever in the time Emily had known her.

“I…” Joyce’s voice fell flat. “I...have feelings for you…” Emily could see Joyce’s cheeks blush, as she pensively stared into her lap. Emily for some reason felt her heart strike a chord, hearing that, unsure of the turmoil in her own chest now. “But, what I want to tell you even more...After I tell you, I’m afraid I don’t know what it’ll be like between us…I’m scared of what might happen between us…”

Emily felt scared too, but the feelings to stay connected were even stronger than that. She couldn’t deny her own uncertainty as well, but she wanted to dive in headfirst, believing nothing could damage their bond.

“Please,” Emily said. “Tell me.”

Joyce took another moment, still avoiding Emily’s eyes. She took a deep breath, and put everything on the line.

“I have a...fetish…” There was no turning back now.

A fetish? All sorts of people had fetishes, what was the big deal? And how did it involve Emily?

“Okay. It’s totally fine if you have a-”

“No, I still haven’t been clear yet…” Joyce seemed to tear up a bit, revealing her true self to the first person in over a decade of knowing. She wished more than anything she could stop there, but Pandora’s Box had already been opened. It was the first time she’d ever exposed herself, face-to-face to boot.

“I have a...caretaker fetish…” Her voice started to grow quiet from embarrassment. “...A mommy fetish…” She hated every moment of it. Her words felt vile and vulgar. She could only imagine how disgusting she looked now. But she knew it had to be done for the sake of moving forward. For better or worse.

A mommy fetish? What...what did she mean by that? Is that why she referred to herself as “mommy” last night?

“Last night was about that…” Joyce suddenly broke the silence, as if reading her thoughts. “I…” Joyce openly choked back some tears as the thoughts of self-disgust spread to her face. “I think about you as more than a friend…” She sobbed.

Emily wasn’t sure why, but she could feel herself starting to cry too. She couldn’t understand what was going on, but she wanted to somehow alleviate Joyce of the pain she was feeling right now. She wished she could have done anything for her sake right now.

“Emily,” Joyce cleared her throat. “In the time we’ve been together...I’ve been fantasizing about us non-stop...wishing I could...could…”

Emily waited in silence, and unsure of how to help her finish. Her thoughts were moving faster than she could process the information being given to her.

“...baby you.” She said it. The hardest part was over. “Non-stop, I’ve been wanting to take care of you, on a much more...intimate level…”

Take care of her? Baby her? The entire concept was foreign to Emily, and she didn’t understand entirely, but was able to see how important this was to Joyce, and that made it matter to her. Is that why Joyce seemed so motherly though? Was it because she had this kind of fetish or was it that Emily was being drawn into it? Or both? Regardless, the idea wasn’t a turnoff, rather, an unknown idea...

“I know you’re an adult, and you have every right to be angry with me--but I just wanted to-”

“Wait, stop.”

Joyce’s voice halted on command, now trying to count the tiny, minuscule, holes she could see in the machined threading of her clothes; doing anything to occupy her mind. She felt ready to burst with anxiety.

“I don’t completely understand what feelings you have for me.”

Joyce felt bitter for what was likely to come next.

“But...I don’t understand my feelings for you either.”

What? She finally lifted her downward gaze, caught off guard yet again.

“You said you have feelings like a mother for me…”

It sounded even more repulsive, hearing it from another person’s mouth. How could anyone ever think of her as normal after confessing something like that?

“I don’t know anything about this side of you…”

Joyce waited. Then, she was suddenly pounced by the 110lb girl, pinning her on the couch.

“But..” Her hesitant tone suddenly didn’t match her aggressive advance. “I want to try it with you.”

Joyce had to have a double-take, so to make sure she heard Emily correctly. Her mind was still catching up, despite her body and heart already knowing the truth; fresh tears running from her eyes out of pure relief and happiness. As Emily’s hair dangled over Joyce’s face, she could see the tears beyond her glasses and she seemed to be in pure bliss.

Emily had no idea what she was getting herself into. But the fact that it wasn’t necessarily a turnoff, and more so the unknown is what tempted Emily to take the plunge. What wasn’t knowingly hurting her, and only putting Joyce at ease was all that mattered. She would be Joyce’s baby any day if it could made her feel like this.

A monstrous weight had been lifted off of Joyce’s shoulders. Minding herself so carefully as to how she acted around Emily, it was all okay now. The feelings of acceptance from who she felt such a deep maternal love for felt better than any sensation she’d ever experienced in her life. The two laid there on the couch as Joyce pulled in the girl who now had such a special place in her heart. To some, a fetish could be only temporary feelings for while they are in the mood, but to Joyce it was an undying desire that was part of her very personality, and something she wanted to be part of her lifestyle. Never would her feelings for Emily wane, and she would never, ever let her girl feel alone ever again. For that brief moment, everything felt perfect, and an unbreakable bond had been formed.

Emily was simply happy to be emotionally reunited with Joyce again, and felt as if their bond had been deepened and renewed after such a stressful trial. And the more she thought about it, the idea of being loved by Joyce in such a way piqued her interest in a way she’d never felt before. The more she thought, she herself never had a “fetish” before. Maybe this could be it?

Either way, the two just laid there in each other’s arms, as they began a new chapter in their lives together. In a single night their relationship felt as if it went under a special transformation they had both come to appreciate. It was the perfect night to make up for such a terrifying one before.

“Now come on,” Joyce had dried away most of her tears. “Let me make us something to eat.”

Happy to go back to their routine, Joyce cooked another pleasant meal while Emily laid there on the couch. Being so much more open with herself, Joyce couldn’t help but smile knowing now she had someone to truly dote on and could be honest with. It was a mild form of satisfaction to the levels she wanted to take things, but after tonight, Joyce felt that those kinds of goals weren’t as impossible as she thought.

The two enjoyed dinner like any other night, and Joyce had promised to go into further detail in the morning; tonight already taking such a toll on the both of them. It just felt so good, knowing it was alright to take charge now…After dinner, Joyce changed into her own pajamas where the two spent the rest of the night on the couch watching tv like any other night. Only this time, Emily’s head was resting in Joyce’s lap, their connection feeling quite pleasant to Emily as well. It went on like that until Emily was the first to fall asleep again, Joyce being more than happy to carry her special girl off to bed.


 

“So, what does being your baby entail?” Emily pensively asked. She was loaded with questions, and was urged most by curiosity than fear.

“Well…” Joyce was still adjusting to being so open about what she was used to hiding for years. But Emily’s acceptance wanted her to be more open. “For one thing...I would have you wear diapers…”

Emily felt a bit awkward hearing that. Of course she expected it, but hearing it finally be put out in the open still felt strange.

“Okay…” Emily said. “Will I have to...use them?” Emily knew she it was a stupid thing to ask, but she couldn’t help but want to clarify just how she would be treated.

“Ideally...yes…” Joyce felt a little bit uncomfortable as well. “For all intents and purposes...at some point, at least.”

It was difficult to comprehend what it would be like pissing and messing herself, Emily strangely pondered the thought. Admittedly it didn’t sound very thrilling, at all. The last time she did that was before she was even old enough retain the thought of remembering what it was like to use diapers…Guess she would be finding out soon enough. But diapers were diapers. Taking the first step was for Joyce, she’d see where it went from there.

“What else would I have to do or wear?” Was being a baby hard? She’d have to do her best to make this pleasant for Joyce.

“Apart from diapers, whatever I clothe you in.”

Clothe her? Then again, Joyce did say she wanted to mother her, which didn’t sound all that bad--being cared for.

“But all I want from you is for you to enjoy yourself. I may find pleasure in babying you...but I want you to find pleasure in me babying you as well...”

Emily couldn’t believe the terms Joyce was setting here. It only felt like to Emily that she was supposed to be benefit from Joyce’s kink, and Joyce was simply caring for her even more than she already did. But it being so unconventional was what made it a kink, Emily reminded herself. It was weird thinking that her own happiness made Joyce happy, but if that’s what it took, Emily was prepared to explore this uncharted territory.

“It would come with dressing you, changing you, bathing you...and feeding you.”

Emily could almost imagine the orchestrated scenes, popping through her head, only feeling curiosity for them rather than distaste. She figured that was a good sign.

“And also...I might change a bit how I talk to you…” What did she mean by that?

“What do you mean by that?” Emily asked, unsure.

“In a tone more..age..appropriate.” Again, Joyce felt caught up, laying her intentions bare in front of the person she was going to do these things to.

“Okay.” Hearing it from Joyce was one thing, but experiencing it was on a whole different level. There wasn’t much Emily could get out of a table discussion rather than experiencing the thing firsthand.

“Do you have any requests from me?” Joyce asked. She wasn’t even entirely sure herself how their first time together doing this would be. She would need time to plan.

“How often or long would we be doing this?” Emily wondered. She knew both of them had work which could interrupt long-term “play,” which wasn’t exactly bad to Emily, as she was currently fond of adulthood, and wouldn’t mind returning to it regularly.

“Let’s just try it first, then we’ll see where to go from there…” Joyce decided, again, uncertain herself. If she were to take this seriously, she’d need to be much more decisive and prepared for her sake and Emily’s in the future.
“Okay. Alright then,” Emily couldn’t think of anything that needed to come now; most of her questions either being trivial, or would ruin some kind of surprise Joyce may have already cooked up. “So when do we start?”

“Since it’s already Sunday, I figured we should wait until this Saturday coming up. That way we both have time to prepare...mentally and physically.”

Whatever that meant, Emily trusted Joyce. She was willing to be surrendered to her care if that meant she would be happy, and would even have Emily’s best interest at heart as well. It would be a long week in anticipation, but the both of them would tough it through. Who knew what Joyce had cooked in store.


 

And so the week was quite slow, but with the help of Joyce’s chauffeur, Emily was commuted to and from work with ease, as the pair could meet each other at home each and every night. There was always dinner together and cuddles, but both of them knew with each passing day that their special time together was coming closer and closer. On the days Joyce came home before Emily, she would use the time to openly strategize and move some newly purchased items into her locked room down the hall...

Late Friday night, when Emily had been carried to bed some time ago, Joyce reviewed her plan with satisfaction, and knew everything was ready to go. Joyce set her alarm clock for 9, and drifted off to sleep. For the both of their sake, Joyce would ensure that tomorrow was perfect.

 

  • Like 14
  • Thanks 2
Link to comment
3 hours ago, babytom2 said:

Why only post this part?It is much longer

Haha, sorry about that! I'm slowly going through the older parts and am adding any sort of revisions I think should be made. For the first chunk of the story that you see here, it's gonna be cleaned up grammatically in certain areas compared to my other spot; you may not even notice. Slowly but surely!

Link to comment

5 - New Feelings

Joyce’s clock buzzed quietly next to her, opening her eyes as the sleepiness quickly drained from her; her heart raced with anticipation. Slipping out of bed, she changed into a snug fitting t-shirt and pants with a similar effect for the day. First impressions for this kind of thing were important, and she wanted to look mature--but also stay comfortable when keeping up with her baby for the day. Everything had been calculated, down to the very cup she’d be drinking out of, and Joyce looked forward to every step of the way.

While she and Emily both experienced their roles for the day, there was really one goal to achieve with Emily, and one only. She would, of course, ease her into things, step by step, but there was a point Joyce would be sure to reach to--truly know whether this could continue or not. She stood in front of Emily’s door; knowing that once she woke Emily up it was on her to see her through. With a deep breath, she quietly turned the knob and opened the door, seeing her peaceful little girl sleep without a worry.  Joyce couldn’t help but feel devious, having known that Emily would still be asleep. She purposely kept her up late last night just to have this effect in the morning. Joyce knelt down on the carpet,  knowing how heavy of a sleeper Emily was, and gently nudged her shoulder.

“Emily, sweetie...it’s time to wake up…” She whispered into Emily’s ear.

The girl stirred in response, still in a trance.

“Honey, it’s time to wake up. We’ve got a very special day ahead of us…”

“Mmmmm…” She mindlessly smirked at the noises. “Mm...nn!” Emily gave a little stretch, as her eyes finally opened to see Joyce looking back at her.

“Joyce?” She mumbled. “What’re you doing in here? What…” She paused for a yawn. “ What time is it?”

“Rise and shine, little one! Mommy needs to get her girl dressed for the day.” Even Joyce herself felt a bit awkward saying it at first, but her emotions and desires reaffirmed her resolve, as with each time it would only become easier and more natural.

What was she talking about? Emily rolled over to stare up at the ceiling, trying to piece the situation together.

“Now let’s see what we have here…” Joyce stood up, and with one hand peeled back the covers to reveal Emily’s body. She was in her button-up from the first night Joyce bought her those new clothes--which looked quite good on her, to Joyce’s mental note.

“My, my! My little girl must have slept well, didn’t she? Let’s get you out of your nighttime clothes and into something more appropriate.”

Emily only caught the last bit before she could feel the touch of someone edging their hands into the waistband of her pants and panties.

As Joyce tugged them, Emily suddenly in protest went, “Wait...what are you doing? Hey…!”

The protest was natural, Joyce reasoned in the back of her head. Joyce foresaw this as well, and it wasn’t anything outside her expectations. She knew the only way she could have Emily’s honest feelings was if she kept her out of the loop and tried to encourage her to simply just enjoy the ride. Surrender all control to her, let mommy take care of everything.

Emily seemed to be catching on soon enough as well, suddenly remembering this was the day they were going to do this. But Joyce taking the initiative on her own was something she did not expect. She was surprised, yet she wasn’t denying what was happening either.

“Such a fussy girl…” Joyce tutted, dismissing her adult shock as a little fit. “We’ll feel much better once we're up and wide awake!” Slowly teasing the girl, Joyce took her time sliding off everything below her waist, Emily being reminded every second of the way, as the fabric slid off her skin. And then they came off her feet; Joyce held Emily’s pants and panties in one arm while she looked over to the very exposed girl, who had already taken one hand to cover her most sacred parts for the sake of what dignity she had left.

“Please give me my panties back…” Emily let out a sheepish plea, her voice choking up a bit from what seemed to be happening way too fast. She didn’t think her heart could start beating this fast so early in the morning!

“Don’t worry honey…” Joyce rubbed her hand over her burning cheek. “We’ll get you sorted soon enough.” Joyce stared at the panties which used to be on Emily’s waist not even a second ago. The striped pattern that ran across the pink looked absolutely beautiful with exquisite craftsmanship. She fantasized seeing Emily clad in these, as she would walk around the apartment--but that was for another time--should it ever come. Something else should be around her waist right now; they weren’t panties.

“Now let’s get that top off of you.” Joyce edged Emily closer to the bed, who was still trying to keep a hand in place from exposing her privates. Joyce paid her arm no heed, however, as she kept brushing it away; an unnecessary obstacle to getting Emily undressed. Constantly she’d try to readjust, to Joyce’s silent disapproval, until she settled by pulling a blanket over her legs instead. Meanwhile, Joyce made her way down Emily’s torso, button by button, as Emily became less and less clothed. Fighting very odd feelings of protest right now, Emily did her best to surrender to Joyce. It didn’t feel right, being undressed by someone else, yet she kept herself restrained nonetheless.

Joyce noted Emily’s cooperation for the most part to be a good thing, and as the final button came undone it left her in just a bra. She’d leave that on Emily; lest she pushes her too far for one day. This time was all about taking just the right steps.

“Arms up,” Joyce said as she guided Emily’s arms by pulling on the top and hanging it over her arm. “Such a good girl,” Joyce cooed further, tossing nearly all of her clothes into a hamper next to her dresser. Speaking of which… “Now let’s get you all dressed up.” Joyce pretended to look as if she were trying to decide on an outfit for Emily, when in fact she knew exactly what she was looking for; she simply wanted to add to the immersion.

“Hmmm...Ah! I know!” Joyce proclaimed as she dug into one of Emily’s drawers. 

What did she find? Emily racked her brain, trying to think what could possibly be considered infantile in her wardrobe. Out of it, Joyce pulled a shirt, holding it by the sleeves just to give Emily a good look. The shirt was predominantly grey, and the sleeves and neck collar was pink, with a happy monkey playing on the front. Emily looked at the size, knowing full well that wouldn’t fit like her shirts normally do; unless that was her intention? And also, where had that been hiding in her drawers?

“A cute shirt for my cute girl! And most importantly…” She fished into the drawers again, exploring depths Emily had clearly never known of before.

But to Emily’s horror and knowing inevitability, Joyce held a large white rectangle in her hand, causing Emily’s heart to sink a little, yet skip a beat when she recognized what it was.

“I need to make sure my baby is protected while we have lots of fun today,” Joyce explained in a motherly tone, taking the two articles of clothing over to the practically nude girl.

Emily’s heart pounded heavily as she did her best to process such a quick chain of events. She wasn’t ready for this, but Joyce didn’t look like she intended to stop, and that made everything equally as intriguing as it was terrifying. She had to constantly remind herself that this was Joyce doing this; her only reason for agreeing to something so unimaginable to her. She was still waking up, yet from the way Joyce was acting, her sleep-induced drunkenness was switching out for something much more infantile. Soon, she would be committed to the role as soon as Joyce did what she needed to do…The final nail in the coffin--or rather, the final tape on the plastic.

Joyce could see and feel the fear and uncertainty radiating off from Emily’s troubled situation. She dearly hoped those feelings would change soon enough, but she’d only know if she pressed further. She quietly cleared her throat, then proceeded.

“Now let’s lie down for mommy, sweetie.” Gently, yet firmly, she used both hands and pressed on Emily’s shoulders as she eased her back, the blanket covering her falling out of reach and Joyce denying any attempts to get it back. Emily hated being so exposed, and turned her head away in shame as she felt tears sting her eyes.

“There, there,” Joyce consoled. “It’ll all be over soon…” Out of sight, but not earshot, Emily could hear the crinkling noise as Joyce fanned out her new undergarment for the day. With both hands, Joyce gathered Emily’s feet together and lifted them up to Emily’s surprise, feeling more like an actual child with each step. Thighs and legs in the air, Joyce slid the white cushion underneath Emily’s bottom and slowly lowered her onto it.

Emily could feel the goosebumps as she came into contact with the soft padding. It didn’t feel real, despite the obvious proof sitting between her legs. Joyce produced a bottle of baby powder and gushed a small cloud of mist as she gingerly covered Emily’s waist in sweet lavender-smelling powder. Going as far as to rub it in, Emily jumped a little out of reflex for being touched in such sensitive areas; almost feeling violated as she hated to acknowledge the strange, yet stimulating touch.

Joyce paid no mind to her responses as she finished rubbing, and moved onto the closing stages as she drew the front of the diaper up and between her legs. Emily did too, as her face turned a shade of red while desperately trying to block out her senses. Next came the tapes, as one by one Joyce made sure to securely lock the four-tape diaper into place. She ran her finger through the leg waistbands (Causing Emily to jump again), and then it was done.  Joyce stood back for a moment to admire the sight right now, while Emily still abashedly avoided eye contact. Joyce’s heart was gushing right now, melting at what she saw. Emily had gone so far to make this possible for Joyce, and it was living up to be everything she’d dreamed of. Joyce could have been the happiest woman in the world right now, as she was overjoyed with her new charge and loving friend.

Joyce sat the girl up as she finally slipped the shirt onto Emily, hiding her bra but doing nothing to mask the white crinkly diaper secured around Emily’s waist. Emily picked up on it too, pouting how the shirt stayed just slightly above her belly button, openly hanging as the shirt was clearly not designed for the size of adults nor their curves.

Seeing Emily blush was an obvious tell, but Joyce still couldn’t help but eat it up--simply too precious for words. Emily looked down at herself hesitantly. It was certainly a different look...the diaper felt much thicker than the panties she had been wearing moments ago, and made her feel very out of her element.

The reminder of her helplessness refreshed some tears in her eyes. Whether this was for Joyce or not, Emily still felt troubled trying to adjust.

“Okay...let’s talk.” Joyce calmly reeled back the persona, as she sat on the bed with Emily, putting an arm around her shoulder and over her waist. “Tell me, how are you feeling right now?”

“I...I don’t know…” It was all Emily could say. It was so hard trying to describe the emotions she was feeling. To confine that idea of helplessness, fear, anxiety, uncertainty, safety. and thrill into words...Was there even a word for that?

“Well, are you happy...sad...scared?” She rubbed Emily’s back.

“I just feel so...vulnerable.” Even that didn’t feel like it did it justice. “I feel like a baby.”

The irony was hard not to laugh at, but for Emily’s sake, Joyce stayed silent at that remark.

“That’s the whole point, Emily. I want to take care of you so dearly like this, but I want you to enjoy it too. Yes, it must be a shock going through such a transition, but I want you to know that I will always be with you every step of the way. I want to care for you just as much, and if not, more. It’s okay to feel vulnerable when you’re like this, and in this apartment. It’s just you and me, and I would never take advantage of you.” The level of trust needed to feel like that though wasn’t easy to reach, of course, and it wasn’t something that could happen overnight.

It felt better having Joyce treat her like an adult again; being able to collect herself, Emily nodding her head in response. She wanted to see what this was like and feel Joyce’s love for her as a child, yet nonetheless, it was scaring her to feel so defenseless, and naked. Never before had she ever needed to rely on someone in such a way other than when she were actually a baby. Now consciously being aware of the difference, she didn’t feel right.

“I promise nothing bad will happen to you while you’re in my care. Just like with your ankle, remember? When you were hurt we made it all better? When you needed clothes, I provided, and when you needed food, I cooked. It’s nothing different now, other than both of us getting to enjoy it in a different way. It may feel scary now, but you need to give yourself a chance to enjoy today and see what it’s like.”

“But the...diapers…” Emily’s voice drifted off on the last word.

“Again, it’s just another thing that reminds you of how you’re in my care. I love the idea of taking care of you, and hope you can like me taking care of you too. You don’t have to think of it as making you a baby; it’s just a way you can put your trust in me to keep you comfy and safe. Besides, does it feel completely unbearable to wear one?”

As much as she hated to admit it, Joyce was on some level getting through to her. Despite being thick and crinkly, the white diaper with a long strip running down the front was a bit of a cushion on the inside. It did feel soft to some degree, but not far from her high-end panties. Still, though, it was an awkward trade for comfort in exchange for being such a far cry from adulthood. And another thing she fought herself on was the wonderful smell of lavender emanating from the diaper; she couldn’t deny that it was a nice smell. And considering it as a sign of Joyce’s care was strange to process, but did offer a new perspective that slightly dampened the blow to her dignity.

“Now that we’re feeling better do you want to go have some breakfast?” 

Breakfast did sound good right about now, and whatever they did have would likely help take her mind off of things. Emily nodded her head as she sniffled one last time, her stomach suddenly starting to feel empty.

“Good, I know I could use a bite to eat right about now, too. Annnd up we go!” Joyce hoisted Emily up in the air with a sudden burst of strength she did not expect, quick to wrap her arms around Joyce’s neck and legs around her waist. She’d never actually been awake when carried by Joyce, and was surprised being able to witness the woman’s strength firsthand. Joyce supported her bottom with one hand and back with the other, and was in heaven as she carried her big baby out of the room.

Wait, what about pants? “Hey, Joyce, wait!” Joyce suddenly stopped walking.

“What is it, hon?”

“What about...you know…my pants?”

“Pants?” Joyce continued walking down the hall and into the kitchen.

“Yes! Can’t I have something to wear over this?” Emily’s voice became quiet in embarrassment. She suddenly wasn’t feeling so brave when it came to referencing her underwear.

“Maybe later,” Joyce reasoned. “I want you to be comfortable with being dressed as you are, and this is just about as intense as it gets.” Joyce half-lied. She could think of one more way to take things further, but she had no intention of doing such a thing to her already skeptical charge.

“Please? Can’t I just have some pants, shorts, or even a skirt?” Emily begged for some kind dignity, as this wasn’t an adjustment she appreciated having to adapt to.

“No means no, Emily. I’ve seen you in even fewer clothes than this; you shouldn’t feel embarrassed. I’m the only one who will see you like this, and frankly, I find you adorable!” She patted Emily’s back after that remark, unable to see Emily’s blushing face.

“Now let’s stop thinking about adult things and look forward to breakfast!” Joyce pulled out a chair at the table with a cushion on it, setting Emily down onto it. Emily noticed the difference too; her bare thighs coming into contact with the warm softness that was replaced by the usually cold surfaces of the wooden chairs.

Had she planned this? Emily wondered, pressing her hand against the warmed cushion. She must have, considering all the other chairs were like they’d always been: cushionless. Either way, Emily wasn’t denying the welcomed addition. Joyce hummed her usual melody as she took out various ingredients and appliances. Emily couldn’t see much as she watched in silence, only able to make out butter and eggs as Joyce stirred.

“What’re you making?” Emily asked as she leaned from side to side in her chair.

“That,” She hung the suspense in between her words. “is a surprise.” Joyce was becoming happier by the minute as it was beginning to feel less and less like a dream. There were a few issues with today, but assuming it all went well, they would be fixed later down the road. For example, she wanted to use a changing pad for Emily and much more appropriate diapers, but on such short notice and holding back her temptations to give Emily the complete baby treatment, she had to take things slow; even if the wait was painful. For all she knew, Emily may never want to do this again, and the thought honestly scared her. However, Joyce was too focused on simply making this one of the best experiences both she and Emily ever had.

Speaking of Emily, sitting in her chair with little to do, she started to become much more attentive towards all the windows in the house now. Being dressed as she was, the glass that gave her a good look of the outside world felt so much more dangerous now; now giving the world a view of her, and her outfit. She had half a mind to crawl under a rock and die. But if Joyce had even thought to keep her seat warm, then that must mean the windows were fine to pass, right? There were certainly buildings that towered in front of every angle of the apartment, and they were in one of many homes to be seen. Putting things into perspective and realizing just how insignificant they were, her mind was put somewhat at ease; reminding herself that Joyce promised her safety and security. 

Joyce poured the mixed substance onto a griddle as she made four medium-sized circles just about equal in size. She dotted them with chocolate chips and flipped them over once one side had been cooked enough. Once the other side finished, she unloaded two onto each plate, one for her and Emily. With a knife, she buttered all four and took care to cut up all of the fluffy cakes on one plate, then apply just the right amount of syrup to the both of them. Satisfied with her work, she carried both plates to the table.

“Ta-da!” Joyce cheered, as she placed a plate in front of Emily and then herself. She turned on the coffee maker as she grabbed napkins and silverware for the two, a fork and knife for herself, but just a fork for Emily.

“Pancakes?” Emily looked down at her plate as she could feel herself begin to salivate. Joyce was truly a godsend from the kitchen heavens, as her food never failed to impress the eyes or taste buds. She had tried cooking for Joyce before during the week, as a sign of thanks; but it never turned out nearly as well with the practice and skill Joyce already had. She’d really need to get a few pointers from her...

“We should start off the day with something delicious to get our big day started!” Joyce set out the utensils as the coffee maker finished doing its business. 

Emily noticed she was only given a fork, but decided not to protest, seeing as her meal was already cut up for her. She knew what Joyce was trying to go for, and didn’t not appreciate her kind gesture. Emily didn’t hesitate, as she already taking her first bite. It was as spectacular like all of her cooking was. The syrupy goodness blended so well with the bite of pancake that revealed a warm chocolate chip which melted on her tongue. Taking in every last bit of taste, she hurriedly moved onto the next bite. Joyce stared at her little girl as she poured their drinks, a bit disappointed in how she saw Emily sit in the regular chair. There was so much more she wanted to do for Emily, and she couldn’t chase the feeling away. Had it been Joyce’s way, Emily would at the very least be wearing a bib right now, if not also securely in a highchair. What were once fantasies, now felt like genuine possibilities with Emily. Joyce wanted to experience so much with her, but was afraid to break Emily with the pressures of unloading years of pent-up “mommying,” all at once. Slowly she would appease her own emotions, but Emily’s always came first.

Joyce set her mug of coffee on the table while she gave Emily her’s, which was specially prepared. Emily eyed the cup as well, seeing it wasn’t ordinary. It was one of the cups she’d used in the house before, but now there was a rubber cap covering the opening, as there was a small top to drink out of. Almost like a sippy cup. Was it? Through the translucent plastic she could see a light brown substance, almost like chocolate milk. Curiously, she lifted the cup and took a sip, better put, sucked on the rubber top, to be rewarded with a stream of deliciousness. It was her kind of coffee that taste like it had been mixed with a generous amount of milk; a perfect balance between caffeine and a drink much more expected of someone substantially younger. She had been expecting something much more infantile, though, but was happy Joyce was making an effort to keep her feelings in mind, too.

“Do you like your drink, honey?” Joyce asked as she sipped some of her own coffee, cutting a piece of pancake.

“Mhm!” Emily mumbled through her chewing mouth, already eating more pancake.

“Perfect. Only the best for my special girl.” Joyce happily cooed as they continued their meal.

Emily was reluctant to drink from the cup at first, but she could stomach the embarrassment, knowing that this was what Joyce wanted, and probably the best she was going to get. With how Joyce had been describing it, this almost came off as a compromise. Did she have a bottle lying around somewhere, and decided against using it? Whatever the case may be, she considered it a blessing counted. It didn’t take long to get the hang of drinking from the pseudo-sippy cup, either; getting it down before she’d sucked it dry. Emily scooched her chair out from the table to get some more, walking over to the counter.

“Oh, what are you up to over here?” Joyce was already behind the girl.

“I was just refilling my drink.” Emily nonchalantly spoke, in the back of her head, wondering why Joyce would feel the need to ask.

“Then don’t worry honey,” Joyce easily plucked the cup from her hand. “All you need to do is ask. Let me take care of it. You go finish your pancakes, okay?”

“Okay…” Was all Emily could say, as she took her seat with the sound of a crinkle. She had almost forgot she was wearing a diaper, and wasn’t happy for being reminded. And it was weird, exploring her limits as Joyce’s...baby. The word felt so weird when referring to herself. Had she done something wrong by getting her own drink? Just how much did Joyce want to do for her? Emily was swirling in thoughts; the exact opposite of what Joyce wanted for her.

“Here you go,” Joyce set down the refilled drink in front of Emily while she took the last bites of her food. “Just let me know if you want anything else.”

“Thank you.” Emily said as she took a sip from her cup to finish off the morning’s breakfast. Joyce with the liberty of cutting larger pieces, finished a bit before Emily, and was just checking her tablet for any unforeseen work updates; not that anything would or could come between her and Emily today. She set her tablet down and gathered their plates, walking over to the sink and rinsing them. She set them aside and took out a washcloth next, wetting only part of it as she walked over to Emily.

“You got a little bit of syrup on your mouth, sweetie.” Joyce was more than obliged to assist, taking hold of Emily’s chin while she wiped her mouth clean. Again a strange experience for Emily, she was thankful nonetheless. As the cold washcloth ran over her face, she needed to remind herself that it was okay to surrender like this; she let Joyce do her thing.

Her face clean, Joyce left the washcloth on the counter while she lifted Emily again and moved her into the living room. Not seeing it before when they first walked through, there was a large quilt set up on the floor in front of the couch. It was decorated in ABC block designs on a powder blue background, and made for a better seat than the hardwood floor. As Joyce lowered her, it gave Emily a leveled view of what was on top of it: toys. There were a couple of things Emily recognized off the bat, like a toy ball, a speak-and-say, and a thick children’s book; very simple stuff. Her mind would vegetate if she were to mess around with the latter two as she were right now, and could only consider the possibility of being entertained by the ball for a short while. However, some of the other things she couldn’t recognize were things that maybe could occupy her for a bit longer. All different in shape and size, they all seemed to be logic puzzles varying in challenge and likely difficulty.

Joyce could see her plan had worked to get some more “advanced” toys for Emily. Of course, it would be cute to see her use some of the more babyish things, but she knew she wouldn’t be very captivated with those few toys. Just because Emily was her baby didn’t mean she had the mind of one.

Emily without paying too much mind to Joyce already started tinkering with one of the puzzles, a bit surprised by it’s genuine difficulty. Joyce was happy to see Emily engaging on her own without having to be pointed in the right direction, but also disappointed when looking at the quilt which Emily’s padded bottom sat on.

Joyce wasn’t particularly a fan for superficial things. Whenever she needed something she could simply buy the correct item; she had earned the ability after all, and to resort to so many repurposed items for Emily was a terrible feeling. She wanted all the bells and whistles, and only the best of the best that was meant for exactly what she wanted to do. She wanted the best for her girl--her baby, but Emily seemed content, and that was enough to set aside her little peeves. Joyce flicked on the tv for some background noise while she joined Emily. She was tinkering with a puzzle shaped like a disc; three metal parts connected to look seemingly woven together, but they were supposed to detach, and Emily was trying to figure out exactly how she’d accomplish that.

“Oooh that’s a tough one, isn’t it?” Joyce encouraged while on her knees, more than a head taller than her compared to the way Emily sat.

“Mhm…” Was all Emily could say, busy trying to figure it out. She always loved puzzles, but at moments couldn’t be the best at them. This was one of those times. Emily openly sighed as she gave the puzzle another work-over, feeling as if she’d already tried every angle to pull them apart for the past ten minutes.

“Here, how about we try it together?” Joyce suggested, as she repositioned herself. She stood up to move behind Emily, and sat in such a way where Emily was in between her legs, as if they were going down a slide together. As if Joyce were the back of a chair, Emily leaned slightly back while she used Joyce as a cushion to support her. Absolutely loving it, Joyce accepted the puzzle from Emily’s hands and began to work on it in front of her.

This...didn’t feel so bad, Emily reasoned as she laid into Joyce. It almost felt like any other night when they sat on the couch together, but maybe a bit more intimate in some way? She always enjoyed the feeling of being with Joyce in some form, and that was no different even now. Maybe in a diaper, and sitting on a playmat, but it was still with Joyce. And she didn’t feel belittled by the puzzle either, as it really was challenging. Joyce may have been treating her like a baby, but she did it in a way where Emily didn’t feel mindless like she had expected. Yet she couldn’t understand why Joyce wanted this so badly? Emily did the like idea of being close to Joyce, but she had yet to see the charm in the approach they were taking.

“And if I have it correct, I think it should go...like...this!” In just a minute or two, Joyce successfully unlatched the pieces, which then fell into Emily’s lap--her diapered lap, rather. Emily still wasn’t too thrilled about her new underwear, but there were the perks to it she acknowledged from earlier. Trying not to pay mind to it, she collected the pieces and was already fiddling with them, now trying to do the opposite of what Joyce had done.

“How were you able to do that?” Emily questioned, already trying to fit them into their awkward sockets.

“What you need to do is twist and pull.” Joyce explained while she watched Emily, stroking her hair.

“Yeah, but, how do you put it back together?” Emily aimlessly tried any combination to get them to fit into place, relaxing to the hand running through her hair. Now she wanted it back in one piece to try Joyce’s method. She held the puzzle up, as if a gesture for Joyce to solve it for her.

“I can’t give you all the answers, silly! That would ruin the fun, wouldn’t it?” There was some truth to this statement, but Joyce wanted these toys to last until she could acquire some more if this wouldn’t be the last day they did this. And if Joyce was reading the situation correctly, that may just be the case...

Emily sulked a bit as she started fiddling with it again, wishing for the instant gratification of Joyce showing her how to solve it. But next as if Joyce had read her mind, she produced the cup containing her favorite drink from breakfast. Emily happily took it and set the puzzle aside to take a swig of the caffeinated beverage. It was already half empty, but she tilted her head back further and further to get every drop; Joyce’s bosom serving as a pillow to support her efforts.
“Thank you,” Emily said as she instinctively wiped her mouth with her hand, finding it to be dry. Then she remembered she was drinking from a sippy cup. Normally, she’d get the stuff on her mouth while sipping if she wasn’t careful, but this rubber cap prevented that from happening. In its own way it was kind of a perk, Emily figured. “Could I have some more please?” Emily asked, trying to look up at Joyce’s face by turning her head.

“Why don’t we try some juice instead?” Joyce suggested, taking her cup and standing up.

“Why juice?” Emily questioned, not particularly thrilled to be denied her special drink.

“Because, you shouldn’t be drinking caffeine all day. That’s for the morning to wake you up.” Joyce explained. She appreciated that Emily liked the drink she made for her, but she didn’t want to make that her exclusive beverage.

As Joyce walked away, Emily could already feel herself kind of missing her personal backrest. She messed around with the puzzle some more, but was ultimately getting nowhere. There was no way she would be able to beat that dumb puzzle.

Joyce popped off the rubber cover and washed the cup out before refilling it with apple juice from the fridge. Apple juice was one of Joyce’s particular favorites apart from water, coffee and wine. She hoped the same would go for Emily too. Joyce put the cover back on as she walked back into the living room. She felt bad in a way, as she took her seat with Emily again, as if she were tricking her. Emily probably hadn’t thought about it yet, but Joyce wouldn’t object to keeping her hydrated--rather encourage it. The inevitable would happen soon enough, and then they could put one of the hardest steps behind them.

“Thank you,” Emily said as she accepted the drink from Joyce, giving it a taste. She could tell it was apple juice, and it was pretty good. She very much liked her coffee-milk, but this was an acceptable substitute, she supposed. Emily grabbed a new puzzle while she turned her gaze to the tv, and Joyce shifted them over to the couch as the more comfortable option. Joyce encased her as they laid there, absolutely at peace as everything in the world felt right. Emily watched the show with Joyce while she occasionally tinkered with the puzzle, paused by taking a sip from her juice, while sitting in Joyce’s arms feeling safe and secure.

“So how are you feeling now?” Joyce broke the silence, wanting to check back in with the adult Emily once more.

“Better. compared to this morning.” Emily admitted. “Everything you’ve done for me I can’t appreciate enough. Minus the diaper and clothes, this doesn’t seem too different than normal. I..” Emily started to blush. “I like it when we’re together like this…”

Joyce was overjoyed to hear such words as she gave Emily a little squeeze. “I like it, too.”

“What about you? How are you doing?”

“Emily,” She sighed. “I can’t thank you enough for this. I feel closer than I ever have before, and am loving every second of our time together. Doing this for me makes me the happiest woman in the world. All I’ve ever wanted is a little girl to watch over and care for, and you allowing me to do that makes you the most important person to me right now.”

“You...you mean it?” Emily wasn’t sure why she was asking, nor why her heart’s pace started to pick up, and begin to flutter.

“Absolutely and wholeheartedly.”

While Joyce couldn’t see, a small smile crept over Emily’s face as she found herself soaking in the moment. She wasn’t sure how she would react to becoming a baby like this, but the love Joyce gave her made it worth every second, and started to make it more than bearable; actually enjoyable.

The two laid there after many juice refills for a few hours or so, until the clock had just about crept up on two. Joyce had been paying attention, as she flicked off the tv and gathered Emily in her arms.

“Wait, what? Where are we going?” Emily asked, just in the middle of watching something.

“It’s naptime, sweetie.” Joyce gave her a light bounce as they walked down the hall.

“But I’m not tired.” Emily retorted as they entered her room, trying not to say the most cliché thing any kid in her position would.

“Don’t you always take naps during the day, though? When you wait for me to come home?” Joyce had a point, but those weren’t until later. It was still about an hour before those even entered the realm of possibility.

“Yeah, but, those aren’t until later.”

“Then let’s get you into the habit for this time then. Soon enough you won’t even feel the difference.” Joyce explained as she set Emily down on her bed. “Do you want the shades open or closed?” She asked while pulling a blanket over Emily.

“Could you leave them a little open?” Emily asked. She wanted to leave a sliver of light in, just to remind her that it was still daytime.

“Sure,” Joyce said, doing exactly as she requested. “Now try to get some shuteye. I’ll come back to wake you up in a few hours, okay?”

“Mhm.” Emily nodded as she was authoritatively ordered to sleep. That was about how long she napped for normally, but it felt different being told to.

“Perfect. Sleep well, my princess.” Joyce cooed, as she lightly kissed the top of Emily’s forehead. Emily’s cheeks burned as Joyce quietly shut the door, now alone with her thoughts. Making a deep sigh, she reflected on the day’s events thus far, rolling over on her side. While she couldn’t fully comprehend what Joyce was getting out of this, Emily’s own enjoyment was starting to grow on her. Being treated like an infant was different, but she felt closer to Joyce than she had ever before. Up until now when they were together Joyce still always cared for Emily, just to a much lesser extent. It’s as if by intensifying the level of maternal instinct Joyce had for her, so did their bond, and the feelings she felt from it.  She loved being with her like this; being cared for--the center of Joyce’s attention. It was unusual, thinking so selfishly, but it felt good to feel that way, because she knew Joyce felt the same too. Yet again though, Emily had trouble placing her feelings for Joyce.

Was this love? The idea kind of scared Emily. She liked men...but was it possible she liked women too? No, no, maybe that’s not it. She didn’t like women in that way; she simply liked Joyce. She always felt like a mother figure to her; just on a more intimate level. Whatever they had between them right now was perfect. Nothing less, and nothing more. Satisfied with her emotional conclusion, Emily closed her eyes, and could feel herself working her way into her usual nap routine.

 


 

Emily opened her eyes sometime later, in the partial darkness of her room, minus the light from outside. She quickly got to the bottom of what woke her up; feeling pressure in her bladder. Oh crap, no, please no! Emily hopped out of bed and crinkled her way to the door. Why did this have to happen? Being Joyce’s baby may be fun, but this part certainly wasn’t as well-received. She made a beeline for the bathroom like years of routine would command; twisting the handle to only have it jiggle in resistance.

“No, no, no! Please!” Emily jiggled the handle further, having no idea why the bathroom was locked.

Joyce! She needed to find Joyce. Quickly she opened the door to her room, finding it untouched and empty. She looked in the living room and then the kitchen, finding no one. This was bad! Where had she gone? Did she leave her?

The worst of her fears were bringing on tears, as she paced around, unsure of what to do as her bladder ached more. Why did she have to drink so much juice? Why did Joyce let her drink so much? Ugh! This was so frustrating! Out of instinct, she wanted to take off the diaper, but unless she got into the bathroom, what’d be the point in taking the thing off?

“Joyce…” Emily sobbed as she sat on the couch.

“Emily? What are you doing up?” The missing figure had suddenly appeared. “You should still be…” Joyce trailed off as she took off her glasses. Emily looked at her in tears with a posture overwhelmed by stress.

“I thought you left…” Emily sobbed, afraid of being left in such a dire situation and attire.

“Of course I’d never leave you!” Joyce gave her a hug. “Is that why you’re so upset?”

“No…” Emily whined. “I need to pee…”

So that’s what it was...Joyce sighed as she pulled Emily into her lap on the couch.

“Shhh...shhh...It’s okay, Emily.”

“But I need to use the bathroom!”

“Then let it go,” Joyce cooed into Emily’s ear. “Mommy’s here, there’s no reason to be scared.”

“Please Joyce, I’m not joking, I need to go!”

“I know you do sweetheart,” She locked eyes with her. “Which is why I want you to go right now.”

Go!? Did she mean in her diaper? Emily knew she agreed to this, but saying and doing were different things!

“Please! Don’t make me do this.” Emily started to plea and sob again, as she was fighting Joyce’s grip.

Joyce didn’t feel great; forcing Emily to pee herself. But she’d need to do it at least once to know what it feels like. She wanted to push Emily at least that far before the day was over. This was it; the big moment.

“Just relax. Instead of holding it back, give it a niiice...biiig...push.” She cooed into Emily’s ear, doing her best to calm her down.

Emily’s body was rejecting everything Joyce tried to coax. It felt wrong, and she didn’t want to do something she hadn’t done in decades!

“I can’t,” Emily begged between her sobs. “Please let me use the toilet!”

“I know honey, it’s hard. Let mommy help you, okay?”

“No! Please don’t!”

Emily struggled as she knew what was to come. Her urge to pee was growing ever stronger and she did not want to do this in a diaper. Anything but that! This wasn’t right; she couldn’t do this! Emily’s fears only grew as the pressure built. Joyce couldn’t really want this! She’d be disgusted with her! With one arm still securing Emily, Joyce took her free hand and slowly rubbed her abdomen in a gyrating motion, applying a firm amount of pressure.

“Please stop!” Emily was crying as Joyce pressed further, making the urge even stronger. Slowly she was reaching her literal bursting point.

Joyce started to hum in Emily’s ear, as her struggling rapidly declined as it was already too late. Emily could feel a rush of pee escape her as it quickly broke out into a steady flow as if she were on a toilet. Only she wasn’t. She was in another woman’s lap. She tried to hold it back, but it was a losing battle, as once she started it was impossible to stop. The warm liquid crept up and down her front and all the way to her bottom. She cried freely as she thoroughly wet the diaper, her diaper. Joyce’s restraint turned into comfort as she stroked her hair and gave her a hug. The tenseness in her muscles had completely dissipated; too emotionally drained to bother moving. Not that she had anywhere to go anymore...

“You did very well my good girl.” Joyce consoled the crying Emily.

The stream stifled off into a few drops and then nothing. Emily couldn’t emotionally control herself, as she felt hot from her emotions and warm from the now used diaper. She could see the discoloration in the once white underwear as the strip had turned from yellow to blue. The initial shock had ruined her completely; this was too strange for her…

“Good girl, Emily. I’m so proud of you! You’re my big strong girl...There, there…”

She was...rewarding her? What Emily considered to be shameful and disgusting, was praise-worthy and delightful to Joyce. She was too confused right now, for betraying her body’s hardwired instincts and yet feeling the praise from her carer made everything seem okay.

“You don’t...hate me?” Emily managed to hiccup through her tears.

“Hate you? How could I ever hate my sweet Emily?” Joyce tightened her hug. “I want you to feel happy and safe; know that I will always love and care for you no matter what! I expect you to wet your diaper. I know it feels unnatural at first, but you took the first step, and it becomes easier every time…”

Emily didn’t know how to feel about that, but there was comfort in knowing she had Joyce to lean on. Her diaper felt wet and squishy as she shifted, it was certainly a strange feeling on its own, but knowing that her urine was the culprit certainly didn’t help.

“I feel gross…” Emily whined; she wanted to be out of this immediately.

“That’s okay honey...it’s normal to feel that way at first. You haven’t done this in a long time, haven’t you?”

“No…”

“That’s right. But it’s all about rediscovering those feelings of being okay in a wet diaper. But, I want you to know that I love you all the same; no matter what. I don’t want you to feel embarrassed or ashamed when these sorts of things happen. They’re expected of you, and you should feel the same.”

Emily still cried as she sorted through her feelings. Joyce was her emotional crutch right now as her world had just been turned upside down. But Joyce said it was okay...so she should feel alright…

“I just want these feelings to go away…” Emily sobbed further as she turned in Joyce’s lap and cried into her shoulder.

“I can help you feel better honey...would you like me to try something?”

“Mhmm.” Emily mumbled from her shoulder; anything to make this situation feel good, or at least alleviate it in some way.

“Mommy can teach you how to like wet diapers…” Joyce whispered into Emily’s ear; even feeling a bit apprehensive herself about what she was going to do.

Like them? How could she do that?

With one hand, Joyce cupped the front of Emily’s diaper as she slowly started to rub, up and down. Emily could feel the wet friction against her most sensitive parts as Joyce started to move her hand, up and down.

“Joyce…? What’re you...doing?” She pulled from Joyce’s shoulder slightly, feeling a bit of stimulation in her nether regions.

“Shhh, I’m making all the bad feelings go away. You did so well for me that you deserve a reward.” Joyce eased Emily’s head back towards her, slowly increasing the pressure and pace.

“Joyce…” Emily started to take more breaths; starting to feel something...good.

“Doesn’t it feel nice? Rubbing your diaper?”

“No…” The shameful, yet aroused look on her face said differently, though. “Y...yes…” Emily was starting to pant a bit from the action Joyce was giving her. She wanted to say no after going through something so traumatizing, but she couldn’t help but embrace this rush of wonderfulness Joyce was creating.

“I’m here to take care of you in every way…” Joyce said as she continued to rub. She didn’t know if this was the right thing to be doing, but she wanted to alleviate the pain Emily was feeling, somehow. Emily had put so much trust into her, she had to take her every step of the way. She could feel Emily start to tighten her grip on her body.

Emily didn’t want her to stop...It felt so amazing, yet she felt so...naughty. What should be so embarrassing, Joyce helped her derive pleasure from. Was this right? Joyce said it was, so it had to be. Wasn’t that all that mattered?

“You’re a good girl, Emily. I want to make you feel happy and to let you enjoy yourself when you’re in my care. It’s okay to feel this way, and to feel any other emotions when you’re with me. You’re my baby, and it’s my job to take care of you; I want to care for you. You don’t have to feel scared or embarrassed when you’re with me. I love you for who you are and will always, no matter what you do.”

Emily couldn’t take it anymore. She started to moan and bury her face in Joyce’s shoulder. She simply clutched tightly as she let Joyce do all the work. She started to cry again as she reached an internal conflict. Her mind raced a mile a minute as Joyce rubbed more and faster. Finally, it stimulated her in just the right way, she reached her climax and felt a wave of pleasure wash over her body. Instantly she grew limp, the only thing supporting her being Joyce. Tears ran down her eyes as the sexual pleasure was overwhelming; shaking from the excitement.

“You’ve done so well Emily…Such a good, good, girl.” Joyce now hugged Emily; happy to see Emily had truly felt pleasure.

Emily knew she did something so embarrassing...but she felt so amazing right now. Her wet diaper was a thing of the past as she had now gone in it both ways, and it felt great. Being Joyce’s baby wasn’t so bad...Even at such an all-time low, Joyce made it feel amazing…

“C-Can you...change me?” Emily said in a weak voice as she panted.

“Of course, honey.” Joyce wasted no time taking her back to her room, laying Emily down, who was too tired to stir or really move. Up until now, she had the energy to move if Joyce didn’t guide her, yet feeling so drained now as Joyce did what she’d always done, Emily now knew what it was like to be cared for. She only had complete trust for someone who only made her feel such good things so often. She never knew what it could feel like to give someone else complete control; to be so submissive. It was scary--losing control, yet it felt so great to be guided by someone she trusted so much. Beyond her orgasm, Joyce created a whole new sense of feeling for her. This newfound pleasure Emily felt wasn’t sexual...it was simply being under Joyce’s absolute care...

Emily felt a cool rush of air as the diaper was untaped and discarded, feeling the cool wipe guided by Joyce’s hand wash her clean.

“Do you want to go back into panties, Emily?” Joyce asked, already accomplishing her goal for the day; not wanting to press her any further.

“Yes please…” Emily spoke, still physically tapped; still shaken up.

Emily looked to be in a state of pure bliss, as Joyce snaked a pair of panties up between her legs. Today had been a good day; turning out even better than Joyce expected. She slipped the monkey shirt off of Emily, even unclasping her bra and putting a new one on, met with little resistance from Emily. Joyce grabbed her some shorts and a T-shirt and dressed her in them as well, guiding the girl back to the couch as she came to her senses.

Sitting down, Joyce asked: “So...how do you feel?”

Emily looked as if she were about to cry again.

“Amazing.”


 

  • Like 13
  • Thanks 2
Link to comment
On 1/1/2019 at 2:19 AM, Hopsalot said:

I read your story on another website and was very unfortunately unable to comment because I am not a member of that website. But I am here and can comment now that I love it so far! And I can’t wait for more updates!

 

On 1/1/2019 at 10:47 AM, Guilend said:

I too have read it elsewhere and is one of the few stories out there that I truly enjoy. Thank you for posting it here.

Thanks for reading it elsewhere! And thanks for coming to this new thread to comment! I appreciate the kind words. Progress may be variable, but I'll be trying when I can to keep updating things.

On 1/1/2019 at 7:59 PM, ausdpr said:

This is really quite magical. :)

And given some of your other stories, I keep looking for hints that it's set in the same world, though doubt it. ;)

Hmm, to be honest, easter eggs are kind of new for me. What sparked the idea between the first two shorts I posted on here was someone asking for more. Digital initially started as something totally separate, but the opportunity seemed a bit too obvious to pass up on. And you never know! Maybe this is the same universe? They're pretty big, so plenty of room to suggest either or. Thanks for the comment!

2 hours ago, Nia said:

I agree with ausdpr. It's extremely fun to read and really well done. Thanks for all the writing

I'm constantly nitpicking over my stuff; be it writings, drawings, code; pretty much anything. Cliche, but we're all our worst critics. Whenever I reread some of these chapters that I write, I'm constantly trying to think of ways to improve or refine it. I hope I improve with each post; picking new stuff up along the way. There are a few writers I find pretty inspiring, and to reach a level of general literature would be pretty cool too. Then again, this is only a hobby! Thanks for the feedback!

  • Like 1
Link to comment

6 - Round Two

“So you liked what we did today?...All of it?” The atmosphere was still raw; thick with apprehension, despite hearing such a positive response.

“Yes...I don’t know why completely, but I think I did enjoy it all…” There was the embarrassment, but looking back on it now, being with Joyce made it strangely okay. Now that Joyce has stripped her bare and seen her emotions and still chooses to accept her, she felt she could stomach just about anything as long as her protector was there to see her through. “Apart from what you did for me at the end...” Emily blushed. “I liked doing it with you, like all the things we do together…” Emily seemed to be having trouble getting the next few words out, “...and I guess I liked being taken care of…”

Joyce stared at Emily for a moment, almost wide-eyed, trying to place her thoughts. Could Emily have had some inner desires going into this as well? Maybe she was on some kind of level submissive? It didn’t matter; Joyce was too happy with her response, and was relieved it had gone so well for Emily too.

“That’s great Emily, really,” Joyce couldn’t do anything but smile. “But I want you to know it was never my plan to take advantage of you like that earlier…” Joyce herself started to feel the seeds of regret bloom from within. “What I did was spur of the moment, and I tried to make you feel better in an aggressive way...I took advantage of you, and you weren’t in the right state of mind to give me your consent; I can’t apologize enough for that.”

Joyce could feel the soft touch of another hand on her own, looking up to see Emily’s gaze transfixed on her.

“It’s okay; I trust you.”

Joyce turned couldn’t help but feel the need to turn away for a moment; bombarded by a wave of emotion from Emily’s direction. When had she been able to make her feel like this? She wasn’t sure why, but, Joyce could only feel an overwhelming amount of presence from Emily, who seemed to be projecting herself so easily now. What kind of revelation had this experience given her? It was as if a key unlocked something deep inside her most hidden recesses; dusting off the shelves, and pulling back the curtains. Joyce expected this to be an end goal; not a start…! Granted, these were feelings for Joyce; not the baby treatment. There would still be changes and additions, there would be embarrassment, and there would likely be tears. It was an adventure Emily was willing to embark upon, and Joyce had every intention to whisk her off her feet, and stroll through the fields of apprehension, confusion, intimacy, and joy with her bundle of joy nestled in her arms. Just to impart sweet serenity upon the one she cherished most would be enough for her sun to rise. Not only had there been an awakening within Emily, but Joyce could feel herself being swept along as well. The stimulation was undeniably contagious.

“Thank you, Emily.” Joyce could feel her resonate within her heart. Her maternal instinct was rising higher and higher; sifting closer to the surface. It was finally within reach, and Joyce wanted more than anything to reach out; clutch it and never let go. In front of her was an amazing person, who was an irreplaceable friend; a partner. But in addition to that, she was also her little girl that needed to be taken care of, and to be loved and looked after. The rapid shift in perspective was surreal, but not unwelcome. Was this what other people felt in these kinds of situations?

Regardless of what the two felt, though, the only affirmation they needed was to be locked in each other’s arms.

“So…” Emily’s embarrassment had started to show, and the bravado began to fade. “When is next time?”

“Well,” Joyce nuzzled her cheek on the top of her head. “I’d like to get a few more things before we get into this again to make things...better for the both of us.” Now that she was on board, there wasn’t the need to feel so restrained when buying the things for her baby girl, now. Emily’s thrill and excitement were obvious, but since this was just the first time, things may still be up in the air. She’d have to expand her arsenal slowly, but effectively.

“Like what?” Emily wasn’t sure how she felt about the lack of a specific date; not one for being left in the dark, especially about something so emotionally rewarding.

“Maybe some upgrades here and there, and some new stuff, too. You’ll find out later.” She intentionally kept the most tantalizing bits in the dark; knowing that she was probably teasing Emily right about now. Still, though, why bother wrapping a present for someone if they already know what’s inside? It was her job to worry about the technical aspect of things; Emily just needed to see the pretty colors, whirring bells and whistles, popping fireworks; all the fruits born by Joyce’s labor.

It was annoying to get an answer like that, and Joyce probably knew what she was doing too. “Come on, can’t you tell me a little bit?” Emily prodded, gently shaking her arm, trying to get a glimpse inside the loop she was being kept out of. “Give me something to look forward to!”

“Look at the time!” Joyce deflected, looking at a nearby clock. “I better get dinner started, otherwise we’ll both starve!”She excused herself, already hatching a meal idea before she could turn on the stove. She also remembered that she hadn’t given Emily lunch today...Although the late breakfast was in some part to blame. For the days Joyce was at work and Emily was home by herself, she may or may not have stolen a look at the security cameras once or twice to see if she had made anything, which she didn’t. But she had no intention of telling Emily that she knew. Regardless, when they had their…”special” time together, Joyce would have to step up her “mommy” game and make sure Emily was well-fed. Maybe that could rub off on her and shape into a daily routine; with or without Joyce’s guidance. To be so doting had her over the moon.

The rhythmic clack of metal to a cutting board began, and she hummed her friendly melody.


“Emily? Dinner’s ready,” Joyce walked into the living room, with the girl nowhere to be found. “Emily? Where did you go…?” Joyce spoke to herself in a low voice as she approached the couch from behind. As she peeked over, sure enough, there she was. Clearly, she was still tired from waking up, and Joyce pleasuring her likely took a lot of energy out of her as well.

Joyce leaned over her while she nudged Emily’s shoulder. “Emily? It’s dinnertime; you awake?” After enough coaxing, she began to stir; her eyes opening soon enough.

“Hmmm..nnn…” She trembled all over, as her limbs tried to spread as far as possible in every direction. “Joyce? When...when did I fall asleep?”

“Beats me; I’ve been making dinner. And speaking of which, it’s finished now and ready to eat. Does somebody think they’ve hibernated enough?” She grinned.

Groggily, Emily followed into the kitchen, taking her seat on the cushioned chair that remained unchanged from this morning. She felt a calming heat radiate from her plate, as she looked down at the splash of fried vegetables diced into cubes, small strips of beef scattered throughout, and a swirl of noodles woven in abundance through the many toppings and seasonings.

“Stir fry?” Emily asked as she sniffed the wonderful scent; already itching for her fork.

“Yep! I figured it’d be something relatively easy to make.” Joyce nonchalantly boasted. Sometimes, Emily couldn’t tell if she were being sarcastic, or truly didn’t understand the might of her cooking...It was nice she didn’t always toot her own horn--intentionally, at least--but food at this kind of level deserved at least some personal recognition. To produce something like this so casually and think nothing of it was almost intimidating. A god treading among its subjects; never stopping to notice the ants that may be caught underneath their feet; she was totally oblivious to her skill.

“How did you learn to cook so well?” Emily couldn’t sate her curiosity for any longer; it was beyond delicious, and she felt compelled to discover its origins.

“Well, I don’t know if “learn” is the right word to use,” Joyce pondered. “My dad always liked to cook, so I just picked up a few things here and there from him.”

“Was he a chef?” It was a likely assumption, considering just “a few things” amounted to something like this.

“Yeah,” She paused to swallow. “He was the head chef at some restaurant in California at some point. It’s been so long though, I can’t even remember which one. Does that make me look bad?” 

The smallest amount of concern on her face was hard not to giggle at. “No, I don’t think so. And you’re from California?” It was always a treat to discover those small tidbits; nuggets of truth that illuminated the darkness surrounding Joyce.

“I never told you?”

“No; what does your mom do?” 

“Oh, they don’t work anymore. Between their own success, and a little of my own, they were able to retire a couple of years ago. We still do stuff every now and then. But what about you? Where did you grow up, and where are your parents right now?”

“Well, technically I’m from Japan, but I was only there for about a year until my parents moved us to Washington back here.”

“Oh, so you weren’t very far from me. Why did your parents move?”

“I guess my dad was homesick,” Emily remembered it somewhat; it wasn’t something she really over considered... “That’s what they tell me, I guess. My dad is American and my mom is Japanese, so I’m sorta mixed, I suppose.” 

“Is that so? I think you pull the look of quite well.”

Her cheeks became as warm as her plate; always taken aback by Joyce’s overbearing forwardness. 

“Any siblings?” Joyce continued.

“Nope, just me. An only child; you?”

“One. He’s my younger brother. He turned…29 last time I checked? Birthdays are hard,” She joked, taking a sip from her glass. “Speaking of which, when’s yours?”

“May 29.” Emily did her best to speak in between her bites, but she was caught between the desire to speak and to shovel another mouthful of seasoned, noodly goodness into her mouth. And her birthday wasn’t far off from now, last time she checked. When was the last time she checked? Usually she’d have her phone...crap. That’s right.

“Something wrong?” The furrowed brow on the girl was hard not to notice.

“Um, no. Kinda, actually…” She let out a sigh. “I just remembered I haven’t had a phone in over a week…” Suddenly she started to wonder how many calls she could have potentially missed in that window of time; it stirred a feeling of unease in the pit of her stomach. She never really forgot that she was out of a phone, but only until now was she acutely aware of why she should be concerned. It was nice to disconnect every once in a while, but this was pushing what was considered comfortable. “Have I really been disconnected for that long? What if my parents tried to call me? A friend--or some important email? I haven’t been checking everyday…Do you think I-”

“Emily,” Joyce called her to her senses from across the table. “Relax, it’s okay. There’s nothing wrong with taking a little break. We can get you a new phone in the morning. Just take it easy for now?”

Her voice was convincing, and they cut through the haze and confusion of Emily’s mind like a hot knife through butter. Once rationalizing things, it was somewhat making a mole out of an anthill. Tomorrow, she would go and buy a cheap phone; just to keep her afloat until she could upgrade to something more usable. At least she’d have something to keep her in the technological loop for the time being.

“Here,” Joyce gathered their plates and glasses, moving over to the sink. “I want you to go and take a bath; relax, and clean up for a bit. Do that for me, won’t you?”

Emily agreed, now beginning to learn that Joyce’s requests were better interpreted as commands; albeit a much more peaceful kind. They had been together long enough for there to be the mutual understanding that Joyce kept her best interests at heart no matter the circumstances. Yes, Emily was a grown woman, yet it became so easy to be strung along by Joyce. Day after day, the sense of having someone to fall back on--a safety net--had been so reassuring as of late.

Emily flicked the light on, as she became reacquainted with one of her most favorite rooms in the entire apartment. The bathroom was always a place she could find herself become absent-minded and lose herself in thought (and maybe even sleep). Already falling into her routine, Emily set the bath to fill as she gathered a towel, soap, and conditioner. With the noise of a flush, Emily closed the porcelain throne; satisfying a different bodily need than like before. Had it been that over peeing a diaper, how she’d feel then wasn’t a fun thought to entertain...It definitely wasn’t something she’d like to consider. Vacating such thoughts from her head, Emily stripped and edged herself into the warm water; always ecstatic to indulge in one of her favorite pastimes; with no other engagements to look forward to.

She looked around the room; absorbing the atmosphere. The warm air, humming fan from above, and the water that cleansed her body. With work during the weekdays, showers were her go-to for when she needed to be quick and out the door, but on weekends she could afford to take a bath much later in the day; absent of the pressures to be squeaky clean for work. She’d never let herself get dirty; her self-consciousness always got the best of her.

Living with Joyce felt absolutely serene. Each and every day was an amazing experience with her, and being allowed to share a life of luxury with her was something Emily could only dream of. She still had to go and see that asshat Jack who was withholding all of her stuff, but Joyce made that a thing of the past, and simply trivial by helping her settle here. After each and every day she felt more at home with Joyce, and always looked forward to stepping through that solid door. Their “special” connection was also becoming much more clear after tonight; assuming a much more intimate familiarity. The thoughts made Emily’s cheeks burn as she sunk lower into the water, as if she were trying to hide her embarrassment from the white tiles. Whatever they had together, a big part of her hoped for it to last for as long as she wanted; being cared for by Joyce like this. Even if she felt like less of an adult because Joyce did so much for her...she was strangely okay with the feeling, or at least she valued it more than her own pride.

Emily shuffled some more in the water over her thoughts; finally moving onto the cleaning process to take her mind off of things.


Joyce sat in her office like she had before Emily’s little “incident,” with her glasses on as she stared at the computer screen. She almost called it an accident, but everything did go where it needed to. She couldn’t help but grin. The BUSINESS sticky note was laid to the side of her desk; a nuisance to stare at for long periods of time. Apart from checking the company stocks, Joyce was tending to a different kind of business, as she scrolled through the catalog. Yet sighed as she looked through the half-baked selection of items; initially so driven to already fill a cart.

This was the best online markets could do? On a commercial level? She could only have the best for Emily, and this clearly wasn’t it...She knew high-quality furniture and items existed out there, but clearly they’d have to be specially ordered to achieve a more authentic experience. Apart from the furniture, Joyce had a sudden thought that she could use something to her advantage. Picking up the office phone she dialed the number of her secretary and sat in silence. If there was anyone other than Emily she could talk about this to, it was her secretary. As strange of a topic as it was, Sheila had sworn to secrecy in a non-disclosure agreement when she first signed on years ago. There would be no questions asked and that’s just how Joyce liked it.

“Hello? Sheila?”

A short pause over the phone.

“Yes. I’m sorry for calling you on a Saturday, but I have something I need you to do first thing Monday morning; sooner if possible.”

Another pause.

“I want you to forward a special order I’m sending you soon to the Incontinence Department and have them prototype it immediately. Make sure to have it sent to my office discretely and tell them there may or may not be a bonus in it for them if their work is done well; maybe even a budget increase. No need to tell them where it’s going, or who ordered it; just make sure it gets done. I’ll include my signature as well so there’s no question about the order.”

Sheila almost instantly responded. Sheila was always a great listener; like she should be.

“Perfect. I’ll be sending you the details shortly.” Joyce hung up the phone while she opened up an order form on her computer. She felt giddy at the moment, having the privilege to design what would be taped on Emily’s bottom. She would be sure to make them look adorable, durable and absorbent. She may not know all the material details, but would be sure to include a comment about not skipping out on the more expensive stuff. In times like these, it felt good to be the CEO, and it was all for the sake of Emily. She spent a good half hour coming up with design ideas, describing them in explicit detail, and was sure not to simply gloss over the functionality either. Joyce included the ideal weight and waist range; sure for it to be a perfect fit. Satisfied, she registered the order under one of her retired board member’s name, then printed it to sign off the approval section. She slipped it into her fax machine and sent it over to Sheila, who would without a doubt get the job done. It was annoying having to be this thorough through paperwork, but this is what it took to maintain anonymity, which she could appreciate considering her reputation.

Joyce looked back to the page she had been browsing; again, disappointed with the finished products. The much smaller versions looked so much more comfortable and adorable; if only she could simply take those in a bigger size...So why didn’t she? At times like these, it felt better than ever to have money to spend.

“Sheila?” Joyce had dialed her trusty assistant again. “And also for Monday, schedule a meeting with the company BabyCare. I want to make a special order with them. Thanks again,” Joyce hung up. The last thing was clothes, but she’d be able to find a tailor for that. All she needed was to find a seamstress skilled in this sort of thing...And if she couldn’t, she could always resort to the one she always went to; the same one she used to fix some of Emily’s clothes. In fact, she already knew Emily’s sizes and always kept her clients secret. And the more she thought about it, the more she knew that she’d be the best bet to go with. Decided, Joyce would have to get in touch with her tomorrow to start production immediately. It would be embarrassing at first to talk about, but Joyce knew she could trust her. With all of her plans set into motion, Joyce finished up the rest of her work then put the computer to sleep.

As she walked down the hall, glancing at the bathroom door, she wondered how long Emily had been in there. Knocking on the door, Joyce shouted: “Try not to be too long in there! You don’t want to prune, I’d imagine!”

There was a pause, but Joyce started a giggle once she could hear the noise of splashing water afterward; her warning had gotten through.

Thankful for the reminder, Emily quickly had a towel draped over herself as she set the tub to drain.

“Have a nice bath?” Joyce asked while she read a book on the couch.

“Yeah. It’s not often I get to take a bath; it’s nice when I can.” Emily took a seat on the other end of the couch, watching the near silent tv.

It was nice knowing at least one person used the bath. Being so infused with the working world, Joyce always took a shower out of habit. She always felt like she had places to be; things to do, even when she didn’t. Almost all of her free time was now dedicated to Emily (not that she minded), so she almost never had a moment to spare. Yet truth be told, naptime would have been an opportunity for her to address certain matters that had to wait up until now. Hopefully down the line Emily would sleep for a bit longer, Joyce hoped. Still though, even being in the position to think such thoughts made her too happy for words.

“So what are you up to tomorrow?” Emily asked, trying to make small talk.

“Well first,” Joyce set her book down on the coffee table. “I’m taking you to get a new phone. I still have your broken one so we can try and salvage the sim card…Then I need to meet with my seamstress to fix the length for a few new outfits I have,” She lied. She would do her absolute best to keep these kinds of things a surprise to Emily. “But apart from that, I can’t think of anything else that needs to be done. What about you?”

“Nothing, really…” Emily said blankly. She wasn’t getting out of the house aside from work lately, as she never really felt the need to. Joyce provided her with comfort here, but she was at times feeling a bit cooped up. She didn’t want to leave without her phone, having very limited options to getting in touch with Joyce. Even now she still didn’t have her number, not that she entirely needed it right now. Her pickup for work was already scheduled and they talked when she got home; everything was planned ahead of time.

“Once you get a phone I’m sure you’ll like to be getting out more often,” Joyce said. But to be honest, she would be a little disappointed if it were the case. Emily being here was part of the new routine Joyce had gotten used to and came to appreciate.

“Maybe…” Was all Emily spoke pensively; her mind occupied with something else.

“Why? What is it?” Joyce took the bait; always able to read Emily’s mood.

“I don’t know...I was just thinking.”

“About?”

Emily looked a bit flustered, trying to muster the courage to speak her words. “Maybe...if we were both free tomorrow...then it would be a good time to do...that again?” She was afraid at what Joyce’s response would be; honestly a bit in disbelief she had requested it herself.

“Well…” Joyce was now thinking too. She knew she had told Emily that it would be at least another week before they did it again, but one more day couldn’t hurt. Yes, she wouldn’t have any of the items she ordered for Emily yet, but if another repeat of today was enough to make her happy, Joyce found no issue in indulging her little girl. And another thought crossed her mind, which may appear cruel to Emily, but beneficial in the long run...Tomorrow would be ideal in that case. “Okay then. Sounds good to me, my wittle girl.” Joyce happily cooed over to Emily on the other end, trying to not to look so flustered.

The evening went on like that, apart from Joyce excusing herself to go take a shower. Meanwhile, Emily was anxious over what tomorrow would be like. She wanted to be Joyce’s little girl, but her much more independent side manifested the gnawing uncertainty within her. They’ve only done this once, and yet Emily was already craving for more...She said she wanted to stop earlier tonight, but that was her independence fighting for its freedom. She was even a bit surprised at her own desire to be babied by Joyce. It was as if something dormant was awakened by Joyce’s affection for her, and the panic caused from it only made her want to confine in her caretaker even more. Whenever she was left alone with her thoughts, now it was all she could think about; the gushy ideas and feelings seeping into her most rational spaces. Regardless, she’d be happy getting out of the house tomorrow for something other than work; with Joyce no less.


 Surprisingly enough, Emily was able to get to bed on her own this time, Joyce not needing to carry her to bed; admittedly strange not needing to do it for the nth night in a row. It was close to eleven and Emily wanted to be well-rested for tomorrow, already being so fatigued from this morning since Joyce decided to wake her up. The apartment was silent, minus the occasional toss or turn from Emily’s room, doing her best to get to sleep. It was a raging battle until somewhere along the way Emily fell asleep before she even realized; everything suddenly black.


“Hmm hmm hmm” Emily could feel herself waking to the sound of humming; already aware of the familiar voice. “Oh, it looks like somebody decided to join me this morning!” Emily could hear the sound of plastic and the smell of lavender as her waist became encased in something snug and comfortable.

“Joyce?” Emily tried to wipe the sleep out of her eyes, opening them to see she was laid on her back. “What’re you-,” She was paused by a yawn erupting from within her. “-doing?”

“I’m getting my little girl ready for the day, silly.” Emily looked forward now to see a sight she hadn’t experienced since yesterday morning. The panties and shorts she had gone to bed with yesterday were now substituted for a white plastic diaper; one that Joyce apparently just finished putting her into.

“When did you…?” Had she really slept through all that? To be fair, Joyce did change her clothes that one time from what seemed like forever ago...Still, she truly was a heavy sleeper…

“Wittle Emmy likes to sleep all day, doesn’t she?” Joyce touched the tip of her nose to Emily’s. “You didn’t even wake up until I finished putting you in your diaper.”

Being talked down to was already putting her in that small space, yet the intimacy made her heart flutter with excitement knowing she was already back in Joyce’s arms.

“And what’ll it be for my special girl today? Do we want big girl clothes or little girl clothes?”

Why did she have a choice? Emily tried shaking her messy hair back into place, propping her upper half up with her elbows. “What do you mean? You didn’t ask me last time?”

Joyce gave a little laugh. “That’s because we were staying inside. But today we have to run some errands and go outside. Do you want to dress like a grownup today? Or maybe I should decide…”

“Grownup!” The words came out as fast as her sleepy self could muster. She said it before she even had the time to realize Joyce planned on taking her outside like this. “And wait...you mean I have to go outside wearing this?” She motioned to the babyhood strapped between her thighs.

“Well, we can’t leave you unprotected while we’re on the go. That would be a bad job on mommy’s part.” 

It felt so genuine, the way Joyce was treating her. And who’s to say it wasn’t? But it was more concerning that she was going outside diapered; in public.

“I don’t want to go out like this though…” The idea was nothing short of terrifying. “It’s embarrassing…”

Joyce pulled out a shirt and black yoga pants for Emily. “Don’t pout now. There’s nothing wrong with wearing what mommy picks for you. You’ll be safe and well-protected. I’ll keep you by my side all day.”

The words of comfort were nice to hear, but they didn’t change how much Emily didn’t want to go through with this. Yes, she wanted to be babied, but she was expecting this to come much later in the day; after they finished their errand, not before it!

“Now come on, we still need to get some breakfast in you. Off the bed, please.”

Reluctantly, Emily stood up, as Joyce got on one knee so Emily could grab her shoulders for balance while she stepped into the yoga pants one leg at a time.

“Such a good girl,” Joyce commented as the shirt came next.

It was the best being with Joyce like this, but going out in public was hurting her mood right now. She wanted to trust Joyce on this, but the thought seemed far too scary.

“See?” Joyce was leading the two out of the room before stopping at the wardrobe mirror. Joyce turned Emily to a side-view and gave her padded bum a pat. “Not even I can tell if you’re diapered. Well, not unless I already know…”

Emily stole a quick glance at the mirror for confirmation, and rushed ahead to escape the teasing. Joyce had already prepared breakfast; the sweet smell of butter, sugar, and cinnamon all mixed together and presented on a plate.

“French toast?” Emily happily did her best to switch gears; a meal she hadn’t had in the longest time.

“Yes it is!” Joyce said as she beamed with positivity, already having Emily’s cut up into bite-sized pieces, and her special coffee drink prepared in her sippy cup. “And I want to see you drink all of your milk for me, okay?” Joyce remembered to offer her the encouragement, just in case if she still had nerves about yesterday. She was already scared of being out in public, she wouldn’t let hydration get the best of her too.

“Uh-huh,” Emily said as she already took a sip. She wasn’t keen on drinking as much like she did yesterday, but she already was thirsty like every other morning. In a long, uninterrupted sip, she set the cup down with a long sigh indicating her satisfied thirst. Joyce seemed to be pleased with that, and started to eat her own breakfast in order to get the day started all the sooner. Breakfast was as delicious as usual, but each bite seemed to make Emily’s heart pound faster, as each one would lead her closer and closer to the inevitable.

Slowly, but surely, both of their plates (including Emily’s sippy cup) had been wiped clean. 

Joyce cleared the table and washed the dishes, piecing together how the day would go.

“Joyce?” Emily broke her train of thought while she absently scrubbed.

“What is it, honey?”

“Can we, um, go out some other time?”

“And why would we do that when today is perfectly fine?”

“Because I don’t want to go out...wearing you know...diapers…” Emily still hadn’t adjusted to using the word very well now that it specifically referred to her. “People will see...it’s embarrassing…”

“Emily,” Joyce turned off the faucet and started to dry her hands. “I already told you: no one will be able to tell what you’re wearing underneath your clothes. All we need to do is get your phone replaced, and you already said yourself that you haven’t had one for so long.”

“So we can’t stay?” Emily knew she was reaching the end of her rope, and the thought wasn’t as exciting as all the other times it had been; she didn’t derive any pleasure from potentially taking a sledgehammer to her social image.

“No, Emily. We’re going out.”

It was just so frustrating. Being together with Joyce and how she felt so much like a mother; she had this pressure and these vibes that made her feel so commanding, especially to the currently submissive Emily. There was this excitement she couldn’t describe from being controlled in such a way...but she hated how she couldn’t resist, and that only fed into her more childish parts even more.

“Once we’re out and about you’ll see that you’re perfectly fine.” Joyce said, setting a dish towel on the counter. “Emily, I would never put you in danger. The fact that I’m doing this proves that mommy thinks it’s safe for her little girl. I would never let you do something that put you at harm. I’ll be right by your side the whole way. Leave the grownup decisions to the grownups, and you just worry about enjoying yourself. So no more pouting, okay?”

Emily only briefly nodded as Joyce walked over to pull her in for a reassuring hug.
“Now,” Joyce got on her knee to be at about eye-level with Emily. “Are you gonna put some shoes on for mommy or do I need to do it for you?” She teased.

“I can do it…” Emily blushed as she got out of her chair, walking over to the shoe area where Joyce had a pair of casual shoes ready for her; socks included. The little details of making preparations like this behind the scenes were what Emily loved the most. It reinforced the mindset that everything was in Joyce’s control, and Emily was like royalty that had the liberty of being served. She sat down on her padded bum while she slipped the perfect-fitting shoes on and tied their laces.

Joyce came a second after with a large handbag slung over her shoulder, putting her shoes on as well. She grabbed two jackets for just in case if it got too cold outside; she needed to be prepared for anything.

“Oh, wait, I almost forgot my wallet.” Emily said as she started to walk back to her room.

“And why would my little girl be needing a wallet?” Joyce said with a firm but gentle grasp had taken Emily’s wrist.

“I need to buy a new phone...right?” What did Emily do wrong? She needed money to buy a phone, after all.

“That’s adorable sweetie,” Joyce cooed as she guided Emily back to the door. “But Mommy would never give her baby an allowance.” Emily’s cheeks burned at this remark, feeling smaller with every moment. “Whatever my little Emmy wants she need only ask me for it.” Clearly she was trying to forcibly spoil the girl, but it made Emily feel foolish for not having the foresight to guess something like this would happen.

It was annoying how Joyce was using their “roles” to her obvious advantage; forcing her typical agenda but with a babyish twist. But deep down, even though it was against her will, right beside that seed of self-hate for being spoiled was the thrill of being forced into such a circumstance.

Joyce was the first to open the door while Emily stood a bit back with hesitation. She started to feel uneasy, as the gravity of going outside was starting to hit her in full effect. She looked down a bit to see the outstretched hand; connected to the arm that led her to her most favorite person in the world right now.

“I know it can be scary at first, but once we get moving you’ll see there’s nothing to be afraid of.”

Emily clasped Joyce’s hand as she hesitantly took her steps outside of the apartment; dressed underneath as Joyce’s little girl. All she had to do was remember Joyce was there. She was her rock, and she would get her through this. The sound of the door shutting behind her solidified her fears once it was set in stone that they wouldn’t be turning back; the thought only bringing her closer to Joyce. She paid Emily’s affection no mind as the pair stepped onto the elevator and moved to the ground floor. In an effort to relax Emily, with a finger from the hand being held by Emily, she caressed the girl’s palm with her nail; sending a jolt of ticklishness from Emily’s hand, but feeling so nice all the same. The pair walked out of the building to see a black car waiting for them; bigger than the night the two went out to eat. But the chauffeur had not changed, as he held the door open for them while they stepped in.

Worries hit the back of Emily’s mind as she stepped in, hoping to God that somehow her diaper never saw the light of day when she was moving. Emily was quickly sent into high gear however when she felt a hand press up against her bottom, feeling a gentle push as she quickly planted herself into a seat. She looked back at the perpetrator with almost daggers, seeing that it was of course Joyce giving her a tease. Annoyed for likely giving the reaction Joyce had hoped for, she looked off out of a window so not to please her any further.

“Sorry Emily, I never thought to ask, what kind of provider do you have?”

For her cellphone? “Um, T-Mobile?” Emily wasn’t sure if that was the answer she was looking for.

“Perfect, same as mine.”

Emily looked over to see Joyce press a small button on a speaker that likely contacted the driver through the divider.

“Take us to the T-Mobile store first, please.”

The car kicked into gear and they were on the move not a second later.

Wait, did she say first?


7 - Errands

“F-First? What do you mean, Joyce?” Emily couldn’t do much to snuff out the nervousness in her voice. It was already taking every fiber of her being just to make this one trek; to even consider something beyond that was impossible. And as a cruel coincidence, she happened to shuffle her legs as well, emitting the faintest crinkle noise just loud enough for her to pick up on.

Joyce had finished raising the divider between them and the driver, valuing the time and privacy she could have with Emily. Nevertheless, she could almost feel the unease radiating from the poor girl. Part of Joyce hated herself for doing this, but unfortunately, this would have to happen at some point or later. Yes, she probably would have adjusted easier if they had a bit more practice at home, but doing this even sooner would help dispel those fears.

“Here,” Joyce unbuckled herself from her seat and slid across the leather seats to the trembling Emily. Wrapping an arm around her shoulders and waist, she gave Emily a comforting hug. “Let’s regroup for a moment. I know it’s scary, and you have every right to feel this way because it’s the first time.”

“Please Joyce...I think I want to go back…” Emily did need a new phone, but not if the circumstances were this dire. Even she knew her fears were probably getting the best of her, but there was no way she’d willingly put her pride on the line to test that. Emily returned her embrace as her head fell into the space between Joyce’s neck and shoulder.

“And that is why we’re doing this. Because after we do it once, you’ll see it’s not so scary after all. After the first time comes the second...then the third...and fourth...and by then, you’ll be as oblivious to what you’re wearing underneath like everyone else around you.” Her words seemed to be having some effect on Emily, but her intuition could still sense her unease.

“There was this one time when my parents took me and my brother to a waterpark back in California when we were just kids,” Joyce ran her hand up and down Emily’s shoulder. “And I hated heights with an everloving passion; especially if it was a waterslide. I can’t even remember why we went there in the first place anyways…” Joyce honestly pondered the thought for a small moment. “Regardless,” getting back on track, “there was this one slide I refused to go on. It was the tallest ride in the entire park, and believe me, it was taller than you could ever imagine.

There was no convincing me to go down that thing, and it already felt like my heart was going to stop just from looking at that monster.” She tried to rock Emily a little bit. “But little did I know, my feelings would come to change that day; for the slide, at least. My dad somehow convinced me that if I went on that slide right then and there he’d get me some new outfit I wanted. Motivated by greed,” She couldn’t help but laugh at how selfish she sounded. “I got in line for the slide, and the string of people that wrapped around and up the stairs was getting shorter and shorter. I honestly thought I was going to die before I even got to the stairs!” Joyce let out a snicker. “But sure enough, I didn’t die; which I probably thought would have been a better end than dying from the waterslide...But with no turning back, I had to sit down on the slide and get moving. It was like when the rollercoaster slowly climbs to the top of a big drop, with the suspense as the water was carrying me into the dark tube...It all happened so fast, and as I picked up speed, and I twisted and turned,” She started making wavy gestures with her hands. “I was screaming for maybe like a solid five seconds! But after that, after I had reached top speed and could see everything moving a mile a minute, I was excited.

What scared me so much at first became probably the funnest thing I had ever done, funnily enough. But what my point is,” Joyce pulled Emily back a bit to meet her eye to eye. “Is that once you overcome your fears, you see the same exact things in a whole new light. To this day, I love going on waterslides now, even though I haven’t been to one in nearly two decades…” She started to dwell on the smaller bits again. “But what I’m trying to tell you though, is that once you get over your fears from this, you might discover something about yourself you never even thought was possible. We had fun together at home, didn’t we?”

Breaking from her motherly gaze, Emily nodded with an odd blush as she shuffled her legs. She did have fun, but that was different from being in the public eye; being in an overwhelmingly vulnerable position. She was convinced by the pleasure of being in someone else’s absolute care, but taking it to a public place put it on an entirely new level she was uncertain of.

“And what’s to stop us from having fun today? Don’t even think about yourself wearing a diaper in public. Believe it or not, people do it all the time, and no one notices. I know this is supposed to be mommy and her little girl, but if it helps, just think of it as us running errands; Emily and Joyce going out together to do some things.” Joyce was aware she might be hurting the atmosphere she’d worked to create this morning, but it was much more important to get Emily in the water before she even thought about turning up the heat. Yes, this is a big change for her, but they’d need to start small before beginning to move by leaps and bounds.

It once again felt wrong to rely on someone else so heavily as an adult, but this was something Joyce wanted and it was a form of comfort Emily wasn’t going to refuse at a time like this.

“Are you being serious when you say no one can see it?” Of course, she knew Joyce would likely never lie to her about something like this.

“Emily, you should know better by now,” Joyce pulled her back in for one last quick hug. “I will NEVER put you at risk. You’re simply too precious to even try!” She released her grasp from the smothered girl, who was unable to hide a telling smile. “Only you will think it’s visible, and the only people who will know are you and me, especially because I’m the one that taped you in one!” The remark sparked smiles from both of them. And even if someone did find out, they’d have to have only half a brain to actually say something about it; lest they face Joyce’s rath for even trying to cause harm to her little girl...But it shouldn’t even come to that, as Emily was only her baby girl in name. No one would be the wiser if they saw her in a regular medical diaper; they’d probably think she needs them. To Joyce, this was a healthy rationalization, but she wouldn’t bring it up to Emily. If that’d happen it would mean her cover being blown, and she’d already alarmed her enough. “And in the midst of our little chit-chat, it would seem we have arrived at our destination!”

Emily’s soak in the loving atmosphere was disrupted as the side door opened; the cool breeze of reality striking her warm cheeks. Quickly remembering her fears, however, her heart started a jog as she could already see groups of people walking about from inside the car.

“Emmy-hon,” Joyce called to her attention with an outstretched hand. “Trust me?”

Emily returned the gesture and clasped her palm, stepping out of the car. Sure enough, the city was like it was most of the time; cold. Even while she wore a long-sleeve, it wasn’t much for the piercing chill. And with her thoughts in tune with her body language, Joyce already started to slip one of the jackets she brought on her.

“Sorry, I knew I should have probably put you in a thicker material...Better now?” Not bothering to consider if she were stepping over the line as far as public concern goes, Joyce finished the job with an audible zip from top to bottom.

“Um…” It still wasn’t easy openly appreciating these sorts of things. “Yeah, thanks.” 

“Now let’s get moving. I don’t want to be out in the cold so much either…” Joyce took her by the hand and led her down the sidewalk and into the considerably warmer store. Emily could feel the thicker underwear make her initial steps a little awkward at first, but it was nothing she couldn’t adapt to. However, the fleeting thought of someone catching her in diapers never seemed to leave her mind, and the thought was terrifying. Thankfully, Joyce was here to prevent that from happening.

Phone displays lined across flat tables, and advertisements decorated the walls; plenty of people were inside for likely the same reason as them. The floor inside was carpeted; if you could even call it that though. In comparison to the carpets at Joyce’s place they were certainly a far cry. They may as well have coated the ground in concrete and called it a day. Industrial carpeting was the worst, and it only made Emily think of home.

“See?” Joyce lowered her voice to a more personal level. “You’re out in public right now? No one is the wiser, Emily.” While she didn’t like the thought being refreshed in her mind, Joyce was right; even if she had baseless doubts. “So?” Joyce looked at Emily expectantly, who didn’t seem to pick up on what she was alluding towards.

“So...what?” Emily replied with a puzzled look.

“Well, why do you think we’re here?” Joyce smirked, watching her face to see when it clicked. “What phone are we getting you?” 

Right. Even Emily had to admit was a little bit silly for not realizing that, but in her defense, it felt far too casual to just up and get a brand new phone. Getting something “new” happened maybe once or twice a year and a fair deal of research beforehand; not one day after the next. Emily walked over to one of the empty tables, unintentionally looking over the latest set of smartphones.

“Jeez, why do these things jump in price so much every year?” She quietly muttered as she looked them over. She glanced at the price of a new Samsung phone, but apparently it was some kind of sale, because all she could see were two familiar fingers covering the space. She followed the hand and arm they were connected to, ending the search at the face of Joyce, who was playfully smiling.

“Joyce…” Emily slightly groaned, already knowing what she was getting at. But even still, this felt like she was going too far.

“Ah-ah! I’ll have none of it. As I remember, I’m the one who holds the purse strings. And besides…” Joyce leaned in close to Emily’s ear with a whisper. “Don’t you remember what mommy said before we left the house? My little girl need only ask for anything she wants. A-ny-thing!

On cue, Emily suddenly found her emotions were much too frazzled to keep still. She knew Joyce wasn’t kidding, even though she felt terrible for taking advantage of an opportunity like this. But Joyce didn’t see it that way, and that was the toughest part for Emily to stomach.

“Emmy, I like to kid, but I’m not lying. I don’t want you looking at any price tags. You need only ask and so it shall be. Don’t hold back and get what you like the most.”

After learning from past experiences to choose her battles wisely, Emily conceded early on this time, turning back to the displays. She only spent about ten minutes dwelling over a final decision; nothing here was exactly a downgrade. Despite what Joyce had told her, there was still no way she’d be picking out the most expensive thing; even if she was to be spoiled. But she also knew that Joyce would call her out on her own stinginess, so she settled on the second runner up from the latest line. And to be fair, almost anything on this table would beat her now broken smartphone; be it in almost every regard.

“I’ll get this one then.” Emily pointed out the device to Joyce. She looked at her for confirmation, seeing her raised brow, likely deducing that Emily wasn’t being completely honest with herself.

“Okay, then we’ll get that one.” Joyce didn’t pry on her this time, trying in her own way to understand Emily’s feelings. Maybe it was good she was showing restraint? Still, Joyce would hope that at some point she could do away with being so reluctant. “Let’s go up to the counter so we can get your SIM card switched onto your new phone.” The pair walked up to the service desk at the other end of the store where another customer was already in front of them, much to Emily’s dismay.

Waiting was usually never an issue for the girl, but given the circumstances with what she was wearing, it was hard for her heart not to beat out of her chest in anticipation; each and every moment in the limelight being another opportunity to be exposed. Whenever she made the slightest shift in her posture, Emily could hear the faintest crinkle, with constant fear wondering which one would be her last.

“Home stretch, kiddo.” Joyce comforted, being the one who was consistently pulling Emily out of her pit of despair. “These sorts of things always take forever, you know what I mean?”

“Mm.” Emily somewhat mumbled as she was near completely focused on the task at hand.

“Don’t worry, the less you think about the clock, the faster time flies by. Keep your mind on getting back to the nice and warm car. It’s a bit too cold out here for my tastes, and I’m sure that goes for you too.” Joyce laughed. It would be a lie if Emily said she wasn’t looking forward to getting back in the car. Most certainly it would be warmer than in this store, but there she’d be able to relish in her privacy--pseudo privacy--taking Joyce into account. But she was...an exception.

As reassurance to herself, Emily pulled the hem of her pants up every now and then, wondering when the person in front of them would finally be finished. The bulk around her legs made her feel completely and totally out of her element. There was certainly a truth to Joyce’s earlier statement; stuff like this seemed to take forever...Finally though, the man had been dealt with and he was on his way, leading Emily and Joyce to the front of the line.

“Hi, how can I help you guys today?” The worker chirped from behind the desk.

“Hi, my friend’s phone here broke recently, and we’re looking to get her a new one and hopefully her SIM card switched over?” Joyce started, taking charge of the conversation without skipping a beat.

“Okay, that shouldn’t be an issue. What phone are you looking to get?” He asked without expecting a reply from either one in particular. A moment of silence passed by for a second, until Emily who was taking a backseat realized Joyce was tagging her in.

Trying not to blush over her lack of social awareness, Emily was quick to say, “Oh! Uh, a Samsung Galaxy S…” the number seemed to have left her head as she was put on the spot so suddenly. “A...uhm, sorry I uh-” 

“I think it was the eight, wasn’t it?” Joyce jumped in to her rescue.

“Ah, right that was the one. Sorry, I forgot…” Emily somewhat trailed off. Suddenly thinking to herself that it was the seven she intended to get, and she’d just created the perfect opportunity for Joyce to further spoil the hesitant girl. And feeling like a child enough already, Emily couldn’t find the courage to rebuttal, finding it easier to simply give in; some part inside of her busy, tingling over the fact that Joyce was taking charge.

“Awesome! If you can just put the old phone on the counter I can just pull up your account…” The man started to explain as he typed away on a computer. “Just to verify, could I get your first and last name, a birthdate, and your phone number?”

Tuned in on the conversation this time, Emily provided all the information in an orderly fashion, still chastising herself over her blunder not a few moments earlier. He probably thought she had a loose screw, or something. There’d be no question in his mind after he saw what she was wearing underneath...

“Yep, everything checks out and I’ve got you pulled up right here. By switching the SIM card you can keep your texts and contacts, but for your photos we’d need the damaged phone to be able to turn on if we were to do it today. Can you still get it on?”

“Ah, no. It doesn’t. But that’s fine though, really. I don’t need anything else other than my contacts and texts.” While there were some photos on her old phone, it’s not like any of them were of any importance. Anything that was would be in virtual storage so that something like this couldn’t jeopardize them.

“Okay, and how do you plan on paying for the phone? There’s a few different plans we could put you on to pay for the phone at a reduced price? If I could-”

“Actually,” Joyce politely interrupted, “We’ll be paying for the whole thing upfront.”

“That works too,” He seemed to pay no mind about his sales pitch being shot down. “Let me just head to the back and grab your new phone.” Leaving the front to his coworker, the man disappeared through a doorway further back while Emily and Joyce were left to wait.

“I thought I said the seven?” Emily said with a tinge of complaint in her voice, stressing over the few hundreds Joyce just added to the bill.

“Seven? Eight? What’s the difference?” Wouldn’t that logic work both ways? “Besides, when you’re given the opportunity to get a new toy, I expect you to get a good one sweetie.” The latter half of her statement came off only in earshot, reminding Emily of that ticklish feeling she got; being looked down on with such a loving gaze. Emily didn’t challenge her remark after that, as the man who had been helping them returned soon after with a white handheld box.

“Here it is,” he smiled as he typed something quickly on the computer. “Before I can do the transfer though you need to actually buy the phone first, so will that be with cash or a card?”

“Card.” The motherly one of the two already had a black card ready, redepositing it into her bag after a quick swipe. Without a hitch the payment went through, and the man was already using a blade on his keyring to slice the thin layer of plastic encasing the expensive piece of technology.

“Now if I could just see the other phone please?” Clearly well-versed in this type of thing, he already had the new phone unwrapped and its SIM card slot popped open. Joyce pulled out Emily’s damaged phone which she hadn’t since that fateful night, eyeing its cracked and lifeless screen. The reflective face had clearly lost some of itself at some point, and one of the corners looked a little bit worse for wear too.

The worker popped it open, retrieving the tiny chip as he slipped it into the new phone and was already powering it up. After about ten minutes of setup, he placed the phone on the counter towards the two, almost as if he were unsure of who to hand it to…

“You should be good to go. Your contacts and texts are on there and your number will work with that phone. Is there anything else I can do for you today?”

“No thank you, that should be everything.” Emily picked up the phone for a moment, looking it over in all its new glory. She forgot what it was like to have a new phone...granted, the idea of “new” was starting to lose its novelty the more she stuck around Joyce, as she was consistently showered in gifts.

“Then have a good day and enjoy the new phone!” He happily bid them off as the two walked out of the store.

Sure enough, Charles, as Emily remembered, was waiting in the parked car as they had left it next to a running meter. Joyce pulled open the door for Emily as she slipped in, Joyce following suit, shutting the door behind her. The two were once more enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth.

“Brrrr! Ah! So much better in here, don’t you think?” Joyce gave Emily’s further shoulder a rub as they soaked in the heated car.

“Yeah…” Was all Emily said as she laid back and was relieved to have been returned to her oasis, once again hidden from the public eye and safe.

“But see what I mean?”

“See what?”

“You, silly! You did just fine in there! My brave little girl! I’ll have to do something special for you for being so good in there.” Joyce’s brain was already turning gears, as Emily sat in disbelief; trying to process how a near-thousand dollar phone didn’t constitute a treat enough already.

“What did I tell you though; no one found out, right?” Emily couldn’t deny this, but it’s not like it made the sidewalks feel much safer to roam.

“No...no one did.” She admitted.

“And I know it was this time, but it’ll be even less scary the next.” For her own sake, Emily hoped this was true, and the less thought she put into it it would likely be the better.

“So can we go home now?” Emily pleaded as she looked towards Joyce with hopeful eyes. Sure, she was proud over her feat; going to the store, but that trip in itself already felt exhausting. Despite this, Emily’s stare was returned with a sad smile on Joyce’s face.

“Oh honey…” it pained Joyce to do this to her little girl, but with another important errand having to be run and more valuable experience for Emily, they couldn’t turn around just yet.

“There’s more?” She sounded almost as if her puppy died; already dreading what was to come. And admittedly, she felt foolish for only remembering now that Joyce already told her earlier.

“We have to make one more stop before we can call it quits today, then we can go home and relax. I promise.” What else could they have to do? Not that Emily wanted to be a wrench in Joyce’s plans, but for her first time outside doing something like this, it was already taxing enough.

“Okay…” Emily conceded as the car already kicked into motion, seeming to already know where they were already headed next. “Then can I at least stay in the car while you do what you need to do?”

“And leave my baby girl all by herself?” Joyce felt bad for denying her this as well. “Sorry, but I need to keep you close by at all times. That’d be irresponsible of mommy after all.”

Emily’s coming reply quickly melted at the mention of the word “mommy,” as it seemed to be her kryptonite; creating a mix of feelings within her that made her puddy in Joyce’s hands. And apparently Charles wasn’t a factor in the equation, as his hands were probably tied up enough watching the car, Emily reasoned. But she knew she herself was a grown adult, and this just fell under their roleplay. Yet, deep down...Emily couldn’t help but feel like a kid in this moment...

“Besides, this other important errand still very much involves you sweetie.” Joyce chuckled as she checked her phone for a brief moment.

It did? Suddenly, a new stir of emotions erupted within Emily, as she only grew more anxious over what else possibly needed to be done. And didn’t she say it was for Joyce and not her? 
“Don’t put so much thought into it silly,” Joyce slid Emily across the seats and into her side. “Do me a favor and try to get some of your energy back while we drive there, okay?” A faint feeling a happiness to oblige, Emily ignored the use of a seatbelt as Joyce positioned her head to fall on her lap, gently stroking her hair. Travelling through the city streets shouldn’t pose a problem as they never reached a dangerous speed; near bumper to bumper traffic at times like these. Combined with that and the distance to drive, the two would have a little downtime to bond before they’d make it to Joyce’s seamstress.

“Try and sleep a little for me. I know I may have woken you up a tad bit early today, so use this time to make up for that.” In a faint and soft voice, Joyce began her melodic hum that Emily was almost like a recurring hypnosis. In this moment, her adult self seemed to shed away as the sound of music stripped her bare and left only a tiny piece of her behind; the smaller side of her that was everything which Joyce embraced.

While Emily quickly dozed off, Joyce grabbed the phone lying on the leather seat and slipped it into her bag for safe keeping; soaking in the moment herself as Joyce only grew evermore ecstatic over the moment she now shared with Emily. What they had was something special and likely becoming irreplaceable in Joyce’s heart, wishing for this moment to last forever.

“Wakey wakey, honey.” Joyce cooed down towards Emily, who had done her job well, managing to sleep the entire ride. “You’re like a little cat, aren’t you?” She joked. “I always seem to catch you sleeping…” Joyce stared at her for a few moments, as Emily was still trying to fully wake up and collect herself.

“Morning…” Was all Emily could say as she rubbed her eyes, seeing part of Joyce’s face above her just past her bosom; the sun emerging from the clouds. Emily could feel a slight tinge in her bladder, but she was too tired to really think anything of it.

“Can you sit up for me?” Joyce asked while she already started to guide Emily back up on her feet. “Let’s head inside and get done what we need to do, okay?” Still few for words, Emily nodded as they hopped out of the car with her jacket back on, the sudden chill being a wakeup call to her recently finished nap.

“So where are we?” She found it in herself to speak again, looking at the store in front of them.

Certainly an extravagant-looking type of place, its exterior was decorated in carved wood and brick. as two large display windows showed off a few decorated mannequins. The way the front was designed almost made it look like a well-kept colonial era exterior.

“We’re here to see my seamstress.” Joyce said as she walked up the couple cement steps to the door and pulled it open for Emily. “Well, our seamstress now, I suppose.” She smiled.

“But I already have clothes you know? Back at my ex’s apartment.” She’d almost forgotten about her old life before she met Joyce. She didn’t need Joyce spending even more money on her over something she already had; something she should go and get.

“A girl’s wardrobe never stops expanding, you know?” Joyce poked as they walked across the polished floor. The store had an awfully Victorian theme to its interior. A few couches made of dark red fabric proudly stood on the other side of the dividing wall in the entrance, pointed towards a stained wooden coffee table as the walls were decorated in wooden accents with dark green to fill in the gaps. Almost an entire wall was occupied by stored rolls of fabric, cloth, and other materials. While the store gave Emily vibes of an outdated setting, the place couldn’t help but feel new and well-kept at the same time.

“Amy? Hello?” Joyce called out to the quiet shop as they approached the unmanned wooden desk. On top of it was a lone call bell which she pressed down on, waiting to be serviced. Only a few moments went by until someone emerged from the room behind the desk, as a woman approached the two.

“Joyce! Back so soon?” Amy leaned over the counter to give her friend a hug.

“Good to see you Amy! I was hoping I could arrange a special order?”

“Bien sûr my friend!” Amy laughed as she turned her gaze over to Emily. While she eyed the girl, Emily did the same to her. Her black hair tied back in a bun, and she adjusted her rimmed glasses as she asked, “And who might this be? In all the years we’ve done business together Joyce I haven’t known you to be so social…” Her eyes were almost like a playful predator; inspecting its next meal.

“This is Emily,” Joyce introduced. “She was the one I had you make adjustments for last week?

“Well now that I can see her in the flesh, I suppose she matches the estimates you gave me the first time around. But if we’re to do things properly I’ll need to take a closer look this time around. Where are my manners though? A pleasure to meet you, Emily.” Amy outstretched her hand and Emily politely returned the shake.

“Let me take you two into the back. We can get more comfy in there. I never really do much business out here, would you believe.” Amy lifted a panel on the side of her desk, allowing the pair to walk behind and follow her into the room she came out of.

The room was a bit more spacious and carpeted as they walked in. A light fixture hung from the high ceiling, as there was another set of couches and table in the corner of the room. Next to that was almost a pedestal raised off the ground, 180 degrees of it being exposed to mirrors; visible from as many angles as possible. There was a set of stairs leading upstairs, but Amy sat them down on the couches.

“Can I interest either of you in some coffee before we get started?” She offered while they slipped off their jackets.

“Sure, I could go for some. I’m sure Emily could too.” Joyce answered for them.

“Ah, yeah, thanks.” Emily awkwardly chimed in. For some baseless reason she felt it were almost better not to say anything.

“Emily, how do you take yours?” Amy asked. She took down the information, then walked up the stairs, leaving the two in the company of themselves.

“This store reminds me of…” Emily was trying to find the word.

“An antique?” Joyce offered, having known what it was like once trying to describe this place.

“Kinda, I suppose.” She still didn’t know if that entirely captured the atmosphere.

“I like it though,” Joyce said, looking the room over. “It feels very homey, I guess. Comfortable at the very least.”

Emily nodded in agreeance. It actually made her think of that one painting; the room with all of the dogs playing poker. It was a silly comparison, but she had no other immediate thing to draw it to.

Suddenly, Emily felt another pang in her bladder, knowing that nature was calling. It wasn’t pressing, but it would be soon enough.

“Uhm, Joyce?” Emily asked.

“What is it hon?”

“I...need to use the ba-”

“Sorry for the wait!” Amy interrupted as she returned with a platter of steaming mugs.

“Ah…” Joyce turned to Amy then back at Emily for a second who had just been cut off, yet the look on her face said she didn’t feel like saying it anymore. Not with the extra company.

“Thank you.” Joyce said as she was handed her cup and then Emily hers.

Between mostly Amy and Joyce, the two engaged in small talk while they drank, Emily occasionally jumping in, but mostly taking a backseat to their already well-developed chemistry. And while they talked, Emily suddenly became conflicted over what she said before Amy came back. What was she going to have done whether she told Joyce she needed to use the bathroom or not? She was wearing a...diaper, and was now having second thoughts about if Joyce’s knowing could be any help to her or not.

Was she even allowed to take it off?

She wanted to go and use the toilet, but that would mean having nothing to wear underneath, probably. She figured the tapes were a one-time policy. Joyce likely didn’t bring any extra changes with her, expecting her to never actually use the damn thing...Or was that was she wanted? Emily wasn’t sure whether to trust in herself or in Joyce, and the thought of displeasing the woman she was already so indebted to was terrifying. Not because of the potential anger, but the slightest disappointment she might feel. After everything, she only wanted to make Joyce happy, and was stunned at how the feeling was mutual. That being said, it was still impossibly difficult to do; to defy second nature.

“Are we ready to get down to business then?” Amy set down her mostly finished mug, grabbing a small kit from her computer desk in the corner. “Let’s start with your numbers so I can get them down in my book, please.” Emily stood up from the couch and walked to the center of the room where Amy waited with her tape measure. “Could you slip off your shoes for me, please? Makes for a better reading on your height.” Amy chuckled as Emily quickly slipped them off, feeling stupid for not having realized herself. “And no need to take anything else off. Your clothes seem to be tight-fitting enough to get the gist of it...A small margin of error, if need be.” Emily couldn’t help but feel off at that last remark; doing her best to chalk it up as more senseless fear. While it did feel extremely uncomfortable to have someone so close with such a dark secret taped around her waist, she could only hope she was in safe hands.

“That should do it. Easy part’s over.” Amy rolled her measuring tape after getting the last measurement on her waist, writing the numbers down in her notebook.

“Now let’s really get down to brass tax,” Amy sat down and pulled out a large sketchbook. “What do we have in mind?” She looked at Emily expectantly.

“Er, actually I uh-”

“I’ll be the one submitting the order.” Joyce filled in for Emily.

“Oh? She won’t be deciding?” Amy raised a brow.

“Call it a...surprise.” Joyce said, trying to find the best words for it. “Actually, I was hoping we could have Emily wait somewhere to give us a bit more privacy?” She felt bad for dismissing Emily like this, but knew it would be in their best interests to do it this way.

“I wouldn’t mind if she stayed upstairs...?” Amy found the situation a bit strange herself, but maintained her all-business composure.

“You wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise, would you Emmy?” Joyce asked Emily with a look of confirmation; the kind that already knew what the answer would be.

Hearing her pet name made Emily gush a little bit, politely nodding as she stood up.

“Make yourself at home upstairs. A friend of Joyce’s is a friend of mine.” Amy smiled as Emily walked over to the stairs.

“I’ll come get you once we’re done.” Joyce gave her loving smile; enough to confidently send Emily off. Nodding in reply, she walked up the stairs and opened a wooden door into an apartment.

From first looks, it was in much contrast to what was below. Rather than the Victorian theme she was going for downstairs, Amy’s home was a much more industrial and modern looking type of decor. Though the store was empty downstairs, clearly the woman did well for herself like Joyce, as her white couch splayed across the hardwood floor, parallel to a mounted tv. While not as big of a home as Joyce’s, she worked with what she had as it was an open-concept type, being able to see from the kitchen to the living room. Curiously, Emily ran her hand across the exposed brick, marveling at the lights suspended from thick, dark, wooden beams.

Sitting on the couch, Emily picked up the nearby remote and turned the tv on. Coming to life with a higher volume than expected, she quickly lowered it in a small panic, lest she disturbs Joyce and Amy’s business downstairs. Speaking of which, the curiosity seemed to be getting to her. While Joyce was likely having regular outfits be made for her, she never said why or what they’d be. She did know that she had clothes, right? Just that they weren’t on her at the moment...She would have to go and get them soon; or have a friend do it.

Without any shoes on, she lounged out on the couch and quietly entertained herself, almost feeling as if she were at Joyce’s place. Eyes focused on the moving pictures, Emily didn’t pay much mind to the sudden movement she felt on the far end of the couch. Only until after a near minute did something compel her to look in the direction of whatever moved. Standing still as the two met eyes, she stared back into the gaze of a gray black-nosed cat, the fur on its paws that of charcoal as well; its tail only making a slight movement. Amy has a cat? She didn’t remember hearing anything about one...not that she totally expected to, since she was more or less a stranger to her. As the two blankly eyed each other, Emily awkwardly gave some nod of confirmation, as if to try and communicate without scaring the tiny creature off.

Trying not to move a muscle for some reason, Emily watched as the cat crept its way closer to her, eventually getting as far as stepping over her legs, until they were about a foot from each other's faces, close enough to touch the cat’s whiskers.

“Uhh...hi there?”

The cat slightly recoiled at the sudden reaction, taking a step back so to flee at a moment’s notice. But with another pause, it came back towards Emily yet slightly closer this time. The cat’s nose twitched as it smelled Emily. After slightly more inspection, it seemed to scout the immediate area for a moment, then planted itself against her stomach.

“O...kay?” Emily quietly accepted the situation; unsure what to make of what was happening. Looking back to the tv and trying to adjust to her unexpected company, she calmly petted the silent creature as it let out a low purr with each and every stroke.

Some time went by as the newly acquainted friends enjoyed their current positions, able to unwind and simply disconnect. Eyeing the nearby clock, Emily was wondering when they would be done. Not that she was completely bored, but she would like to get going soon. Her train of thought was interrupted though by a stronger pressure in her bladder, something this time she wouldn’t be able to ignore.

“Damn…” Emily bit her bottom lip as she knew what was to come. Hesitantly, Emily politely excused herself from the couch without trying to disrupt her tiny friend, as she walked nearby the kitchen to search for a toilet. Turning around, she could see the cat had left its spot to follow her in tow; willing to give chase. The more she moved, the more she realized how badly she needed to pee. Having coffee probably wasn’t such a good idea after all...but maybe it was because Joyce was planning for something like this…? The lines were often so blurred, Emily never knew what was calculated or simple coincidence around Joyce. Soon her efforts paid off as she found the porcelain throne she was looking for, turning the light on and shutting out the cat for some privacy. She lifted the toilet seat and turned to sit her bottom down on it, only realizing her complete foolishness when her fingers made contact with the waistband of her diaper.

Freezing in place, mid squat, it became apparent how her entire plan came crashing down as her biggest oversight was that she was already wearing her bathroom. “Come on…!” Her voice started to whine as she pulled the front band of her pants forward to get a good look at what she was confined in. “Please Joyce...don’t make me…!” Emily could feel herself on the verge of tears knowing what the inevitable would be. Almost every part of her wanted to rip the damn thing off and use the toilet like a normal person, yet that would mean she disobey Joyce, and she wanted to do anything she could to keep her happy. At a crossroads, Emily was faced with the decision to either reaffirm her bond with Joyce, and wet herself in somebody else’s home, or to give in to her adult desires and escape infancy; escape Joyce. The uncertainty was crippling as she didn’t know what to do, and time was running out; fast.

“Joyce…” Was all she could moan.

Amy and Joyce both looked towards the stairs Emily just finished walking up, and they both heard the click from the door both opening and closing.

“So how did you find yourself a thing as cute as her?” Amy asked, taking a sip from her drink.

“It’s a bit interesting how we met, I suppose. Not your usual circumstances…” Joyce pondered the thought while she finished off her coffee as well. “But...she’s nice. She’s a good,” Joyce paused for the slightest moment. “Friend.” suddenly finding the right word. Amy couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow at the subtle misstep in her speech, but let it go for now.

“I’d love to know more about her later. She didn’t seem very social when she was down here?”

“Oh please, try and be in her shoes, won’t you? She’s still getting used to being with me, and I just introduced her to you today. Something like that can be intimidating for her; for anyone.” Joyce let the words flow so casually with her relaxed guard, she didn’t put too much thought into her choice of words around Amy, whose interest was only becoming more piqued by the second.

“Getting used to you?” Amy laughed, “And you almost speak about her like she’s a kid? Reel back the maternal instinct my friend!” Amy laughed some more, and quickly stopped herself once she could see from one friend to another Joyce suddenly tensed a bit. “Oh?” Amy curiously popped the bubble of silence in the room.

“I’m here for business, can we please get down to it?” Joyce seemed a bit more focused now, trying to make it clear she was ready to move things along.

“Of course, Joyce. And as you know we’re strictly about confidentiality here, for all intents and purposes.” She stressed a bit on the “all,” hoping to regain some of her trust again. “Now I need to know, what are we looking to get done today? I’ll need you to at least tell me that.”

Joyce looked at Amy as if she were debating something in her mind; whether to speak or not. 
“Amy, as both your friend and client, I need you to know how important it is something like this doesn’t get out.”

“And like I already said, what goes on between me and my clients are behind closed doors. Be it for business, socializing, intimacy...or maybe something that falls into a more miscellaneous category. But for that to happen, I need you to trust me. I’d like to think we’re good friends, don’t you?” Joyce let out a deep sigh, as she finally found her resolve to come forward.

“Emily...and I have something special.” Joyce chose her words carefully. “What she’s doing for me is something so...genuine, that money could never hope to buy it; it’s priceless.” Amy sat quietly listening on. “And for that reason I want to help deepen our bond by making the time we spend together more special…” Even she knew she was dancing around the real words she wanted to get to.

“Are you two practicing something together that’s a bit more...off the deep end?”
“What? No! Why would you even…?” Joyce suddenly retorted as she realized her own outburst. It felt like Amy was suggesting some sexual kink they had for each other, and it almost felt insulting to have something as pure as they did be branded in such a fashion. Not that kinks were bad, just that Joyce would never want something like this to be misunderstood. “I care for Emily...like one of my own. And she’s been willing to let me,” She took a brief pause. “Indulge, myself, in taking care of her. But I want to take it even further, and make it even more real and genuine; for the both of us.” Joyce kneaded her hands as she found the courage to get the point across. “I would have never come to you for something like this if I couldn’t have trusted you, you know.”

“I understand.” Amy smiled as she got the gist of what Joyce was trying to say. She’d never seen one of her longtime clients be so flustered like this before, and to make a request of this kind. She never figured Joyce to be the type...Though, no book can ever truly be judged by its cover. Case and point a few other clients she had in mind…

“Okay. But if you’ll allow me to, I just want to confirm the kind of clothes were looking to make for her here.” Joyce nodded. “We’re looking to start a more ‘infantile’ wardrobe for Emily?” Joyce almost thought not to, a small voice from inside trying to hide such crucial information, but nodded once more, feeling easier with each moment the secret lay out in the open. “And I would imagine we need to keep in mind that she won’t be wearing traditional underwear underneath? If you understand what I’m getting at?” Even more reluctantly, Joyce nodded her head again. “Okay…” Amy jotted down a few notes in a notebook. “And just so I can keep her measurements as accurate as possible, she was wearing a diaper earlier when I took down her numbers, correct? They come to be a bit thicker than normal panties, so it’d help if I knew whether or not to take off an inch.”

This seemed to be a tougher pill to swallow for Joyce. While it was one thing to speak about their relationship, it still felt like an even greater disservice to throw Emily under the bus like that. Without a response, Amy said blankly “I’ll take that as a yes then. It’s my job as a seamstress to pick up on these kinds of things, you know. Besides, I think she smells wonderful anyways.” Amy alluded to the powdery scent from Emily’s nether regions, which Joyce felt a slight jab from the remark. She tried to take it in stride though, knowing there was no malice.

“But Joyce,” Amy set down her pen and clasped her friend’s hands. “I want to say this one last time so we can be on the same page: I need you to trust in me so we can make this the most fulfilling experience possible. If not for me, think about Emily. You’d want her to look her best, right? Be honest with me like you always have been, and with my pride as a seamstress on the line, let’s make Emily look adorable, okay?”

Feeling better with this in mind, Joyce’s internal conflict was washed over by a small smile, finally able to focus on the task at hand once more.

“So what are we looking to design for her exactly?” Amy asked. 

“I was hoping to get a brief wardrobe...for starters.” Joyce spoke with a bit more ease. 

“Alright, so some outfits for the day, and sleepwear for the night? We’ll keep it basic for now.”

“I want her to have outfits she can wear around the house and some pajamas. Nothing for outside.”

“Are you sure? I understand keeping her out of the public eye, but with you and your connections, I’m sure it’d be more than possible to pull a few strings to get her some privacy outside...”

“Maybe, but I don’t want to force something like that onto her...not for a bit, at least.” The thought of how Emily could and would progress admittedly excited Joyce.

“Mhm…” Amy nodded her head as she looked down at her growing list of notes. “How about a few onesies then? I’m sure those could work for her.”

Joyce agreed, jumping at the sound of her suggestion; at least Amy had the bravery to speak them. “Definitely. That would be perfect.”

“And how do you want the flap to work? We could do snaps or buttons, on the front, back or bottom?”

“The back will work.” Joyce said, already with a vague image in mind. She knew it wasn’t as conventional, but she figured it’d be best to keep the buttons out of Emily’s line of sight for a better effect.

“And do you have any patterns or colors in mind?” Amy asked with her pen ready.

“Stripes. Possibly a pink-themed one and a light-green version?” The two colors didn’t mix very well together, but come separately and they would both complement the girl quite nicely.

“So I’ll draft up two onesies, and that should be enough of those to begin with, right? Is she like this every day?”

“No, she isn’t. That should be enough there.” Joyce couldn’t help but say that last bit somewhat longingly, as her fantasies only let her speculate the unlikely.

“Then let’s top it off with at least one more outfit; maybe something like a dress to move about in? A sundress?”

Joyce nodded in agreeance, happy to know Amy was strangely onpoint with this sort of thing. It was just like this with her regular orders, only now under a different theme.

“We can go for the general design, but what I can do for her is add in a support for her? Kind of like how a onesie will support her bottom, only that the dress will do the same thing. It’ll cover whatever she’s wearing underneath, but depending on what you put her in and how short the skirt of the dress is, I can’t promise anything about a bulge.

“I understand, that should be fine.” Joyce kept reminding herself that she’d be the only one seeing Emily in her grand spectacle, which made the drafting process much more easy, and creative.

“And speaking of skirt length, how long do you want it to be?”

“Maybe a bit past the halfway point on her thighs. I don’t want it to get in the way too much. And I’ll leave the rest of the design up to you.”

“Okay, then that should finish off her playwear. Now what about something to sleep in? Onesies work both ways for play and sleep, but I’d imagine you want something a bit more?”

“Sleepers.” Joyce quickly said, already having it in mind.

“That was fast,” Amy couldn’t help but grin over the response time. “I take it we’ll do a zipper design?”

“Yes, a zipper should be fine. I want two sleepers, actually. One where she can reach the zipper on her own...and one where she can’t…”

“Oh?” Amy was slightly curious about the variation, but knew it wasn’t her place to ask for details.

“Not to punish her, of course. Just to…’help’ her be a little more dependent…” Joyce crossed her fingers, finding it a little difficult to be expressive about the topic again.

“And do you want them to cover her feet or hands?”

“No for both; it’d probably feel too restricting then.”

“I’d have to agree with that,” Amy blankly added as she wrote some more information down.

“She likes to get her shuteye a bit, almost like a cat.” Joyce openly laughed, stewing over all the moments she’d catch her sleeping.

“In that case I might as well give her sleepers a hood with little cat ears.” Amy laughed as she was happy to see Joyce finally be much less tense about the subject.

“Really? You could?” Unintentionally Amy realized she struck a chord with Joyce on that one, even though she wasn’t being completely serious.

“Well, I guess there wouldn’t be a problem with it, if you want me to?”

Joyce nodded again, failing a bit to hide the excitement and glimmer in her eyes.

“I’ll make them detachable, if you or she doesn’t want them on. And with everything here, I’ll make sure they’re adaptable in all the right places to keep a good fit on her. How about we stop there so I can work with what we have, regroup, make any changes that need to be done, and move from there?”

“Thank you, Amy! Really, I mean it.”

“Happy to help both a customer and a friend.”

The topic of business quickly derailed into more small talk about themselves and what kind of person Emily was like. Somewhat surprised at how Joyce could gush over someone like that, Amy was amused as she’d seen a totally new side to her friend. Sure, she’d always been upbeat, or at least normal, when they talked, but never had she been like...well, this. The sudden emotion, the passion in her expressions, words and actions seemed to carry a different sense of flare to them. Almost like she was inspired? Maybe that wasn’t the right word...

Checking her watch though, Amy interrupted their talk as it had seemed to have gone on for long enough. “It’s always fun chatting with you, but I think we’ve kept Emily waiting long enough?”

“You’re right, I want to get her home. She wasn’t exactly excited to come here after getting a new phone. It’s her first day out wearing a...you know, and I’m trying to build up her confidence to be a bit more outgoing with them.” And then Joyce suddenly remembered what Emily was trying to ask her about a while earlier; connecting the dots to realize maybe it was a bathroom she meant? Now with a mental note to check on a certain something when she saw Emily, the two walked up the stairs into Amy’s apartment, with the unattended tv playing and Amy’s cat sitting by the bathroom door.

“Ashes? What are you doing sitting here?” It wasn’t like him to sit out in the open unless without a reason, and then both Amy and Joyce looked at the closed door in front of them.

“Emily? You in there?” Joyce knocked.

She could hear a sniffle from the other side of the door.

“Mhm...just a second.”

It wasn’t hard for Joyce to read the mood, taking an educated guess at what might’ve happened.

“Everything alright? We’re gonna get going now.”

The knob turned as the door opened and Emily emerged, the area around her eyes slightly red from what were likely tears. Ashes, Amy’s cat, seemed happy to be reunited with his friend as he rubbed against her leg with a purr.

“I’ve never seen Ashes be so social with someone, especially on the first day!” Amy tried to lighten the mood as she made an honest remark. “He wasn’t even like that with Joyce until after a while.”

“Maybe she’s already got my scent, then.” Joyce wrapped an arm around Emily’s shoulder. “Ready to go?”

Emily mutely nodded, as they took the lead out of Amy’s house and back downstairs.

“And you, can wait up here, mister.” Amy was careful not to let the cat out. As much as she was okay with letting him roam freely around the store, it’d be unbecoming of her professional attitude. “I’ll be getting back to you in a day or two on the details for you to give the no or go on,” She did her best to focus solely on Joyce, while Emily slipped her shoes and jacket back on. She wasn’t a mother, but given where the two found Emily, and after clarifying what she wore, only so much could be left to Amy’s imagination.

“Sounds good to me. We’ll be heading home and finally be able to relax, and also get ready for the workday tomorrow.” Joyce sighed, considering how long of a week it’d be. “Anyways, enjoy the rest of your day Amy, and thank you again.”

“Anytime Joyce, and Emily it was a pleasure!” Amy gave Emily a brief hug who had just joined the two.

“It was nice meeting you too, Amy.” Emily said as she weakly returned the hug. Amy was a nice person, but she didn’t want to be too affectionate with anyone right now.

“I look forward to seeing you again. And just know that Joyce thinks the world of you!” She exclaimed as she moved back to the stairs. “Now if you’ll forgive me, I’ll have you two see yourselves out. I can’t help but feel I’m bursting with inspiration for some reason!” She gave a smile that felt particularly directed at Joyce, and then she was quickly out of sight.

“Ready to go home?” Joyce looked over at Emily, who with a sense of fatigue nodded her head.

The two walked back into the main store from the back room and then around the desk, opening the entrance to see the car where it had been left, getting themselves inside. Charles already having been instructed beforehand, kicked the car into gear shortly after they shut the door.

“I’m so proud of you,” Joyce spoke plainly; no syrup or sugar; nothing that may cause understanding. The lack of flavor to her words was refreshing in a way, because above all else it came off as a statement. Her words could not have been any more genuine than they were now. As she hugged Emily, she continued speaking. “It must’ve been tough, wasn’t it?”

At the sound of her understanding, Emily could feel the sadness buried from what she’d done, resurface, only nodding her head, wet drops beginning to escape the corners of her eyes.

“That’s alright. It gets easier, I promise. We’ll get you changed when we go home. Just try and relax for now…” Emily could feel a slight whimper, as her emotional dam was breaking now. “You know it’s okay to cry, right sweetie?” Joyce pulled her deeper in as she rubbed her arm. “Remember, it doesn’t matter how you feel; I’m here to take care of you. There’s no need to act tough around me. If you can’t have a good cry around me, then who else is supposed to comfort you?”

Silently, Emily’s whimper turned into something a little more audible as she willingly buried herself into Joyce; arms wrapped tight.

“You can stay like this for as long as you need to,” Her voice rung as softly as the words before. Emily was held by sanctuary and safety itself.

“My special, little Emmy.”
 

  • Like 12
  • Thanks 1
Link to comment

I am LOVING this story! For this to only be your third story it’s amazing. I am totally impressed with how this is progressing. I absolutely love how the relationship between Joyce and Emily is slowly moving forward. If there were a part of the story that could be changed it would be how they came together. I get this feeling that Joyce was laying in wait for a smaller girl to fall into her trap. I wish that wasn’t the case because I am really enjoying the careing relationship that they are now developing. It seems like the beginning shouldn’t be clouded by any sinister intentions on Joyce’s part. The point where they are now, Emily is trusting and cares enough for Joyce that she is willing to try new and different things that are taking her well beyond her comfort level. You can see that Joyce also cares deeply for Emily and not just so she can mother her. Try as I might, I am having a hard time getting that thought out of my head. Don’t get me wrong though, I still think this is one of the better stories I have read. I was pleased to give it a like and I am waiting to read more. 

Link to comment

8 - Breaking Barriers

Emily’s bottom felt slightly more bulky than anything else as they walked down the hall. The price of absorbency seemed to be added thickness, and weight. But she’d been in it for so long now that she wasn’t as irked over it than she was initially; being dry was still much more preferred, though. The cool weather outside was working its magic as Emily almost felt a little chilly down below, yoga pants not being enough to protect her from the cold. Buried in her underwear were the seeds of betrayal, as her own pee would eventually be working against her too; something she didn’t like to think about.

The nonexistent eyes she could feel ogling her slightly-pronounced bottom were beginning to be too much for one day. It felt like she was running on fumes at this point, longing for the safety and comfort they’d find back home. She could only make a silent prayer of thanks that nobody had found out what she was wearing...To her knowledge, of course.

Joyce had been sure to reinforce her little girl’s efforts today with only the highest of praise. When they were the only two to occupy the hallway, Joyce made sure to assume her motherly duties and give Emily a gentle pat on the bottom, causing the unexpecting girl to give a slight leap forward from utter shock.

“Hey….” Emily looked at Joyce with a telltale pouty face. Whether she intended to or not, Joyce tried her hardest not to crumble when she could see the slightest blush blooming on her puffed-out cheeks. As much as she wanted to respect Emily right now, it only made her want to tease her girl more...But she’d been through enough for today, and she’d have to respect that.

“I’m sorry...” Joyce chose to rub her shoulder this time instead of her bottom. “I just want you to know I’m so proud of you...and grateful. You mean the world to me.”

Emily shuffled a little bit from hearing those words, still getting used to Joyce’s open affection for her. Deep down as she burned though, the sentiments were certainly not unwelcomed. “Th-...thank you….” Emily mumbled her best thanks. While it may have been easy for Joyce, openly expressing gratitude for the things she’d been put through was a bit tougher for the much more vulnerable girl to tackle. They weren’t hated, but they weren’t exactly normal occurrences. In a way Joyce had the easy part. She didn’t have to give up all responsibility, which was weird in a way to consider as a bad thing when compared to the benefits of relinquishing them…

They didn’t prod each other any further in the hall, as they reached sanctuary once more and the inside was just how they left it.

Joyce was the first to re-initiate the conversation as she closed the door behind Emily. “So…” She looked expectantly at Emily, who upon sitting down had her face quickly transition from a look of complacency to one of shock and surprise.

Crap! Emily in the span of mere moments forgot what she was currently taped in, and could already feel her cooling bodily fluids be released ever so slightly from the thirsty pads she’d just squished from sitting. Trying to maintain her composure, she refocused back on what Joyce was getting at, which she had no idea was.

“W-What?” Emily tried to gather herself.

“I know today was scary, going out in your diaper, and even using it...” Emily didn’t want to be reminded...But it stung less hearing the words from Joyce. “Do you want to keep going? Now that we’re home?”

It wasn’t something Emily considered; another blindspot she felt dumb for leaving so ignored. But even she couldn’t lie to herself when she knew today had already been pretty exhausting. So many trials and tribulations to go out in public in a diaper...and use it...However, she looked at Joyce, her ray of sunshine that enveloped her further every waking moment. It was almost shocking that she’d already spent this much time trying to come to terms with a response. Caught in the duality of being an adult and a baby, which did she prefer right now? It was honestly starting to scare her.

In a way, it almost felt like it’d be liberating to stop being a baby for the day. It was honestly kind of hard to work her way into this kind of mood, but thinking back to yesterday from her cuddle time with Joyce...she almost longed for it? That to her wasn’t a chore, and was actually relaxing...And by being an adult again wouldn’t that mean she’d have to do more things? Not that being an adult in front of Joyce created much more expectations...And if she was tired right now, why add more to her workload? Was it okay to keep being babied by Joyce? It was so confusing! Emily didn’t know which to choose, weighing the growing pros and cons to each side; unable to make a decision.

She couldn’t come to an answer, and could only whimper. “I don’t know...”

Silently, Joyce blinked at the unexpected words. The girl looked to be actually struggling with the question and couldn’t find an answer. Had what they been doing have that much of an effect on her? In a way Joyce was glad Emily could warm up to something like this; it meant everything to have her little girl accept a role like this, but all the same she hated to see her struggle.

“Emmy…” Joyce bending her knees took both of Emily’s idle hands, calling her out of her internal dilemma. “Would you like it if I decided for you?” She gave her palms a reassuring squeeze.

It was her decision. Her choice that dictated her own life that she was supposed to be the master of. An adult who had made a living for themselves, found a home, a boyfriend, learned to cook and clean and wake up on her own and get dressed. And yet...and yet, why? Why did it feel so...so rewarding to just let Joyce pick up the pieces for her? To let her guide her to wherever she saw fit? The sudden dependence within her left a small piece bitter, but it was overshadowed by the monumental longing to be taken care of. To be closer with Joyce.

In a simple nod, ready to pry from her conflicted decision, she nodded. “Yes…”

“Okay then…” Joyce said in a quiet, matter-of-fact voice. “Chin up, then, my little kitten! We’ve got a diaper to get you out of.”

Emily couldn’t help but smile knowing Joyce had taken the reigns again, content in some way to just sit there and let her untie her shoes. Yes, she was acting like a complete kid right now, but Joyce was happy. And by extension, so was Emily.

Now in only her socks, Emily waited patiently for Joyce to take off hers, long forgetting about the diaper she was pressed into until Joyce guided her back onto her feet, feeling the slight added weight from her recent accident. She tried not to think about it though, and kept her eyes and thoughts on what was happening right now, in this moment.

Back in Emily’s room, Joyce laid the girl down, her heart racing for knowing what was to come. This would be the fourth time she’s been through this song and dance, and she was only just beginning to show the slightest signs of comfortability with it. Heck, she was only awake for two of the three times it had already happened!

Off came the socks first, which revealed the girl’s bare feet and Joyce making sure no barefoot in the house went untickled, resulting in the involuntary giggles and squirming coming from Emily. After enough screaming to stop, Joyce finally conceded and moved on to the rest of the procedure. The pants came next, leading Emily to blush a bit, still learning to be partly naked in the presence of Joyce. What Emily hadn’t expected next though was the shirt, leaving her chest bare minus the bra.

“W-wait what? Joyce? I thought you were...changing me….” Emily found it hard to get the more embarrassing words out of her mouth, tapering off into a mumble, as she couldn’t even make eye contact with the person who had now the majority of her clothes in hand.

“Silly, I am changing you! But mommy needs to make sure her little girl is always clean, you know.”

The helpless and partly distraught girl couldn’t make heads or tails of what she was getting at. Every waking moment was always a surprise.

“What do you mean? You don’t need to take off my shirt to change a diaper….” It was hard to say the words with confidence. Despite her own reasoning, her irrational side that accepted the flow of things was poisoning her bravado. Joyce’s words were too convincing.

Joyce couldn’t help but chuckle as Emily struggled to connect the dots. It was always so cute watching her flounder in simple curiosity; just to feel her raw emotions be exposed to surprise, knowing they’d always settle into relaxation and comfort. The adventure could always be scary for her charge, but reaching the destination was worth every single second of it. Now that they were back home and safe, Joyce could relish in these moments, knowing Emily probably felt even more accustomed now knowing the indoors was not nearly as prying as the public!

“A clean diaper doesn’t always mean a clean baby, my wittle girl.” It was hard to resist the cooing now that they were alone, and the words made Emily squirm in a fuzzy way. “I think it’s time for someone to take a bath, don’t you?”

A bath? Well, Emily didn’t have a chance to use the bathroom that morning; in more ways than one. She did miss out on her daily routine, but if they were still in ‘play’ mode then how was she...Emily looked back to Joyce, suddenly red in the face from unspoken confirmation. Joyce only returned a loving smile as only the tapes tearing from plastic could be heard.

“Are you….going to...you know…”

Joyce finished the words for her. “Bathe you?”

Emily, flustered, quietly nodded her head.

“Well, I can’t trust you to be in the bathroom by yourself, right? Much less take a bath. Little Emmy needs mommy’s supervision at all times.” She rubbed Emily’s cheek at that statement.

The words made her feel so little...so incapable of doing things by herself, meaning she had to rely on Joyce even more. While the talk and change riddled her with obvious embarrassment, the joy that welled up inside of her was unmistakable. In all this time she’d spent with Joyce, it all felt like grooming for the kinds of moments like these when she’d cross a significant line with Joyce; lines like this. Emily didn’t know why she was feeling this way, but like in any other moment of uncertainty, she simply resigned herself to go with the flow.

Joyce collected her ankles in the air and slid the used diaper from underneath her, passively taking a look at how well-used it was. Unfortunately, Emily’s one accident was nowhere near to using up the entire thing...but Joyce wasn’t going to force the poor girl to sit in it; not when she had only wet one for the second time. It would be a gradual transition, of course, but Joyce couldn’t help but keep getting caught in her fantasies of the future. Emily had become her everything and she’d trade nothing else in the world for it.

“Alright,” Joyce stood Emily up and off the bed, who was currently only in a bra right now. “Let’s get you cleaned up now, hm?”

“You’re just gonna leave me naked?” Emily stammered in a weak protest, as her old habits kept one hand in front of her nether regions and the other on her behind.

“You can’t wear clothes into the bath, silly. Then they’d get wet!” Joyce intentionally misunderstood her words as she watched Emily fuss. It was clear though she was getting used to being naked around Joyce though, even if decency commanded her to hide her most precious parts. It was about pushing Emily a little bit further each time though, but never too far outside her comfort zone.

“But I think mommy forgot one last thing to take off,” Joyce nodded over to Emily’s last piece of dignity. Her bra.

“C-can’t I just take it off in the bathroom?” Emily so desperately wanted to maintain any shred of dignity she could hang on to. Things were moving fast and she suddenly wanted some way to fight the tide.

“Emmy, honey, turn around for me please.”

Wordlessly, Emily followed her instructions, almost ready to cry from what was to come. Guided by Joyce, she knew it was okay on some level to be handled like this, but it didn’t make things easier. The adult inside of her was fighting now, but the more accepting part of her was clearly winning the battle.

“Shhh shhh it’s alright. It’s just getting ready for bathtime, that’s all.”

Emily’s emotions weren’t ready for when she heard the click of the strap coming undone, now hanging lifelessly. Out of instinct Emily took the hand that was covering her behind to support the unhooked garment she still had on. But slowly and gently, a second set of hands slid them off of her, leaving her chest bare and body completely and truly exposed. Reorganizing her efforts, now one arm covered her chest and the other her front. A bare backside was something she’d have to accept.

“Alright my little exhibitionist,” Joyce did her best to try and lighten the mood. “Let’s get somebody in the tub now. Don’t you think?”

“Mhm...” Emily’s words were few and far between now, taking all of her mental fortitudes to stay composed. Even if she wanted to be okay with this, overwriting what trained instinct told her was a difficult task to manage. As loving as it was, Emily could feel Joyce watching over her; caught in a mix of happiness and fear.

Emily wasn’t budging though, trapped in her own internal dilemma again. Joyce almost let out a sigh, watching her little girl struggle like this time and time again. But from what past experiences taught, Emily tended to respond well with a little shock to the system.

“Does somebody want mommy to carry them as well?” Joyce whisked a yelping Emily into the air, as she quickly wrapped her arms around Joyce’s neck and waist with her legs. Her morals berated her and screamed indecency as her bare chest pressed against someone who was modest enough to be clothed; her crotch as well. It was even more of a bitter pill to swallow with her butt on full display. But to who? There was only she and Joyce in the apartment after all…

Burying her head from the shame, Emily in a muffled cry spoke. “Can you please let me down?”

“Maybe when we get to the bathroom,” Joyce replied. She didn’t like forcing Emily into situations like these, but so far it seemed to be the best way to get over a slump. “I know you might be a bit embarrassed right now, but you already know I’ve seen everything you have, right?”

A bit embarrassing didn’t even begin to describe, but Emily knew there was truth to her words. Since day one, excluding the diaper changes Joyce had changed Emily’s clothes the first time they met. She could remember it like it was yesterday; waking up in a nightgown and different underwear, and with no bra too. By that logic she had no right to be embarrassed, but even then….

Joyce rubbed the small girl’s back while they made their brief trek to the bathroom. It felt short for Joyce, but like an eternity for Emily. Every subtle movement and shift Joyce made while Emily sat there naked came back to her in critical and vivid detail. Down to Joyce’s hands, which supported her naked thighs and fingers that just edged on the cheeks to her bottom. She hated it as much as it started to become alluring to her; another step to the bonding process.

Joyce had already unlocked the bathroom before they left that morning; already planning to do something like this should Emily have wanted to continue. Honestly she didn’t expect it, but would have given herself a literal pat on the back for planning anyways, had she not been occupied with a naked Emily, of course.

Inside and with the door closed, the warm and contained bathroom atmosphere enveloped Emily. The entirety of the apartment was kept well-heated, but nothing compared to being laid bare as soon as she got out of the bath. It almost helped her forget the circumstances she was in right now.

“Could you...let me down now, please?” The contact between the two had certainly been intimate but Emily wanted to collect herself. Joyce may have been a bit more accepting than her, but Emily was still getting accustomed to her new attire.

“Under one condition, hon.”

“What’s that?” Just from hearing the unknown terms Emily’s heart skipped a beat. What could it be? What more did Joyce want from her? 

“If I let you down, you have to promise me one thing: I don’t want you to try and cover up, okay?”

No, no, she couldn’t be serious. This was too much! Emily didn’t want to be so exposed in front of the person she cherished so much. It felt...wrong! She didn’t know how she was supposed to get closer to Joyce, but this was a means she didn’t want to follow through with. What was natural was being challenged yet again and anything other than protest seemed impossible! Yet at the same time, all of their past moments came flooding back, contradicting everything she was trying to stand for right now, especially when Joyce first...pleasured her. Even now...it was just a compilation of everything she’d experienced thus far. She just wanted Joyce to make the bad feelings go away…

The silence had gone on long enough and Joyce started to coax. “Emmy, you should know by now shame isn’t something you should ever feel when you’re with me. If you want to feel sad, or angry, then sometimes that can’t be helped. But always and I mean always, at the end of the day you’ll be my special little girl. It’s my job to keep you happy, you know? So far I’ve fed you, changed you, pampered you, and more. You liked that, didn’t you?”

Once more Emily could only nod, letting the words talk her down from the ledge. This wasn’t manipulation, because even the rational side of Emily knew it was true.

“And now I need to clean you. You don’t want to be dirty, right?”

Emily shook her head. Everything came so simply when it was through Joyce’s words.

“No, of course not!” Joyce laughed a little. “There’s no need to feel embarrassed being naked around me sweetie. Embarrassment and shame aren’t allowed when I’m here with you, okay?”

Emily nodded once more, taking in the pure words of only acceptance and embrace; devoid of anything impure or negative.

Joyce cooed. “Good! Now if I let you down can you promise to be a happy little girl for me?”

She didn’t feel like herself anymore; not when Joyce talked to her that way. Everything felt so real, the way she was cared for and handled made it too believable to think otherwise. Emily wanted to cry from happiness right now. She’d still be a little red-faced, but she could manage if Joyce said it was okay.

One final time Emily nodded her head, and then she could feel Joyce’s grip loosen, announcing touchdown when Emily’s feet made a slight plop noise when they connected to the tiled floor.

“There she is! Right as rain!” And red as a rose. Joyce could see her tiny smile as she looked away, with a face as red as a tomato. She’d keep the last part to herself though. This was already more than perfect. Emily rubbed one of her arms uncomfortably with the other while she shuffled everso bashfully. Her heart felt ready to jump out of her chest the more she stood still. Doing as Joyce asked she tried her hardest not to cover up again; her breasts and privates on full display. But every time she’d sneak a glance at Joyce’s gaze, it was never a look of disdain, disgust or negativity. It was pure warmth. The acceptance was wonderfully heartbreaking, and it felt even the slightest bit more comfortable to be on full display, and realize there were no repercussions for it.

“Phew!” Joyce said in relief. “Had you given mommy any more trouble I might have had to get in the bath with you!” She ruffled the hair on the top of Emily’s head, a new sense of shock overcoming her.

What? Was she kidding? She had to be joking! Right? Emily quietly watched, beet red while Joyce started to fill the bath, speculating what it might have been like to bathe with Joyce. Just to imagine seeing her whole figure...W-w-w-wait! Get it together! Emily quickly chased the thoughts out of her head, trying to focus on the task at hand. It was an understatement to say she felt out of her element being naked in front of someone else, but needless to say Joyce’s casualness towards it was a godsend. Joyce always knew how to make Emily feel better and this moment only made her grow more trusting of the fact.

Joyce’s hand monitored the gushing water until it had reached the perfect temperature; catching the midway just between too hot and lukewarm. She almost felt a little sad, when the thought hit her. It wouldn’t be much of a bath without any bubbles or toys...damn! Joyce quietly chastised herself, a failure of a mommy who couldn’t even give her little one something to be entertained with. But...Joyce snuck a look at Emily’s bare backside once more, watching her longingly. Emily wouldn’t mind, she was easy to please. It didn’t make Joyce’s infraction any less significant, but on the surface Emily would be alright. That just meant it was another fun bathtime to look forward to down the road.

Gathering towels, a sponge, soaps, shampoos and an empty cup, Joyce set up her workstation whilst Emily watched quietly nearby, still trying to sort through her own emotions.

Joyce set a towel for the amenities and another to kneel on. A much larger one was kept folded for Emily.

“I know we didn’t get any food into you while we were out, so maybe we could have a late lunch?”

“Whatever’s fine...” Emily said, still trying to find her words.

“We could order out, you know?”

“Really? From where?” This caught Emily’s attention, from both curiosity and a strange sadness. Takeout on any night was good, but a night without Joyce’s cooking was...questionable. Hence why she was having second thoughts.

“Sandwiches? Pizza? Sushi? I want you to pick for a change. Wittle Emmy gets to pick tonight!” Joyce fired her loving coos towards Emily, who kept her tingling feelings to herself.

It was the first time Emily actually had reign in her miniature role. It was no real power that was given to her, which is why it was so much more thrilling. No matter what she did she would still be safe under Joyce’s watchful eye. She’d been given the freedom of choice, but she was still well-within Joyce’s influence. And honestly she’d been so used to being cooked such amazing meals that she’d partly forgotten what it was like to cook for herself. It was a little strange to realize that...“I’m not sure...Can I have some time to think?”

“Of course.” Joyce finished tying her hair up into a bun and rolling up her sleeves. Then for no reason whatsoever, she snuck over to Emily, giving her a warm hug. Of course in return it caused the naked girl to jump, still adjusting to her naked display.

“Wh- why are you...?” Not in a voice of protest, but general concern and curiosity.

“Can’t mommy hug her little girl when she feels like it? Or maybe I’ll have to tickle my way into one!” In tune with the build-up in her voice, Joyce’s fingers quickly scurried up and down Emily’s sides, resulting in an immediate squirm of thrashes and cries as she struggled to fend off the tickle tormentor. Somehow finding a chance to escape, whether it was a sign of mercy from Joyce she didn’t know, Emily bolted to the other side of the tub, trying to cover her sides from any further attacks; an irrational part of her even briefly considering a ranged assault. With a distraught look on her face, she could only watch the playfully vicious Joyce give her a motherly grin.

“Not funny…” Emily pouted, establishing a safe distance between the two.

“Awww...I’m sorry Emmy. I didn’t mean to chase you away!” Joyce opened her arms in a wide, welcoming stance, the predatory look in her eyes diffusing into something much calmer. “Do you forgive me?” She did look genuinely apologetic...

Emily shuffled with uncertainty, trying to discern whether or not Joyce had a trick up her sleeve. But the hug did seem nice...so maybe...Carefully, Emily edged closer back to her former enemy, toe by toe, the only sounds in the room being the bathroom fan and the mini waterfall filling the tub. Within a few tile’s distance, Joyce slightly leaped forward, latching her arms around her cautious prey.

“Gotcha!” Joyce playfully shouted.

Oh no! Not again! Emily started to squirm, anticipating another tickle attack at a moment’s notice. Her earlier escape was starting to feel like a fluke though, because now it was clear Joyce didn’t want her wriggling away. But during her futile efforts, it became clear Joyce had no intent to attack.

The two slumped to the floor, with Emily overshadowed by Joyce’s larger figure and placed in her lap, returning the hug in the best way she could by latching onto her arms. Even if Emily’s cheeks were burning right now and she was naked, she was more focused on enjoying the moment.

A little more time passed until Joyce finally released Emily for good, content with their cuddling and judging it was time to turn off the faucet. The expansive tub was filled and it was time to get a certain someone clean. Had she not taken a shower this morning she’d almost have felt obliged to join her. But that might be a bit too much right now...Joyce wasn’t sure how Emily would read the situation then.

Joyce clasped her hands together. “Alright! In the tub, missy.”

Already reminiscent of their hugging, Emily edged one foot into the tub, feeling the immediate shift in temperature as she acclimated to the near-hot water. It did feel good; certainly pleasant enough to wash the day’s fatigue and dirt away. Though, the last part was just added for effect. In Joyce’s care, there was no way Emily had even come close to a speck of blemish that could harm her shine. Even as they were separated right now in the flesh, Emily could feel Joyce’s emotions wrapping her in a pleasant, snug cocoon that didn’t want to let her go, and Emily didn’t want to leave. 

Lowering herself into the rewarding bathwater with these thoughts was nothing short of bliss and sweet serenity. And to top it all off, Emily started to feel like puddy when she could hear Joyce’s hums follow behind her from ear to ear; indications of Joyce already getting to work.

“Does my little kitten like being pampered like this?” Joyce calmly spoke as she eased Emily further into the water, just enough to submerge her black and shimmering hair.

“Mhm…” Emily spoke in a quiet whisper. She was too entranced to fully give a response.

Joyce’s smile only grew wider when the ecstasy written all over Emily was emanating. Slowly, Joyce traced one of her fingers over Emily’s head in circular motions, dancing across her nape.

“Now tell me, what does little Emmy want to smell like? Lavender, lotus or peach?”

“Pick for me, please…” Emily quietly moaned, too busy enjoying the sensation from her scalp being massaged.

Well, if Joyce had ever thought Emily were in pure bliss, now would be it. She’d have to keep moments like these in mind whenever Emily might need a breather. But...Joyce was in the mood for peaches; she wouldn’t mind that smell moving around the house. Not that Emily could have ever made a wrong choice. Oh, just to dote on someone else who was willing was such an indescribable feeling! Emily...if only she knew how important she was.

Joyce doused the sponge in the body wash, dipping it into the bathwater and helping Emily back into a sitting position, her wet hair hanging heavy, collected into a smooth mass. She watched as the wet hairs fell in line as they left the water; unperturbed by anything that touched them.

“Alright, Emmy. It might feel a little strange at first, but bear with me, okay?”

Emily absent-mindedly nodded as Joyce started to scrub with the fruity-scented sponge up and down her back, gentle with the utmost care in each and every up-and-down motion. Trying to relish every moment, the distant fact hurt that they wouldn’t be able to do something like this for a bit. A week in fact. Joyce felt a little selfish voice inside her head, entertaining the thought at what it might be like if Emily didn’t have to work at all. Then she’d always be here, ready for her mommy to look after her...No!

What was she thinking? It was just a simple fantasy. Nothing more. Emily was an adult, and even Joyce didn’t think Emily would want to surrender herself completely, and that was more than understandable. Besides, it wasn’t like Joyce could put her life down either. Yes, there was a very special spot reserved exclusively for Emily now, but right now that couldn’t be her everything. She couldn’t exactly stop working. Prestige came at a price.

This was only the second time they bonded like this before. Joyce was fortunate enough to have gotten this far and should already be grateful. Besides, it only had yet to get better and more rewarding for the both of them. Joyce settled her sights and thoughts on those moments, those which weren’t far off in the future.


A good hour went by in the bathroom; both Joyce and Emily soaking in every possible moment. Emily had certainly gotten a bit jumpy when Joyce cleaned her more...sensitive parts, but Emily let it happen nonetheless. Joyce carried on the conversation for the both of them, as the girl in the tub was simply too intoxicated to invest herself. Joyce scooped one last batch of water into the cup and let it trickle into a full-on pour over Emily’s head, washing the rest of the conditioner away.

“I know you’re having a good time, honey, but I think it’s time we get you out of there. I can’t have my baby girl turning into a raisin on me!”

Slowly being drawn back into the atmosphere of reality, Emily was sad to see the bathwater go, watching as Joyce opened their exit and the warm, steamy crowd flushed out. Immediately as the water level began to sink, not even the heated fan could convince Emily it wasn’t chilly. Trying to hang on for as long as she could, the water reached a point where she couldn’t fully submerge herself anymore and she was just teasing herself at that point. Standing up finally, there was thankfully Joyce with a towel she could have mistaken for a blanket waiting for her. It was a towel Joyce would sometimes use for her torso, going as far down to just above her ankles. With that size comparison, it might as well have been a blanket to Emily.

Draped in her robe Emily felt safe from the harsh temperatures yet again.

“There we go. Now she smells perfect!” Joyce gave her an exaggerated sniff as she rocked her from side to side. It was always fun when they could be together like this.

This was true. Even Emily was pleased with how she smelled. Not that it was bad before, but now a certain scent had been emphasized yet again. Earlier this morning it would have been the lavender Joyce powdered her waist in… As she sat there though, stewing in her thoughts, a sudden urge struck her, one that bloomed confusion and worry inside of her.

Just as a hunch, Joyce couldn’t help but think she saw a shift in Emily’s demeanor. “Something wrong?”

“Er….I…” Emily could feel the embarrassment coming back to her in troves and under a different mask. It was a new problem she hadn’t faced with Joyce before. To even consider mentioning it pushed what she thought could be the most shameful to new limits.

“Do you need to pee?” Joyce blankly asked, wondering if she hit the nail on the head. Of course Emily would still have trouble mentioning those kinds of things, so it was her job to draw them out of her.

“No…” Emily sheepishly tried to look in any other direction than where Joyce was. Knowing her, it probably wouldn’t take much longer to build from there. Peeing was one thing. So it was only logical next she’d guess…

“Is it maybe for something else?” Joyce danced around the exact words, trying to keep her girl in one piece.

Awkwardly, trusting in the time the two had taken to build such a stronger bond, Emily nodded her head.

So that’s what it was...Joyce almost bit the side of her lip, pondering over what to do. Messing was obviously too soon for Emily. Baby steps. And Joyce wouldn’t go to get her a diaper just to put her through that, no. It had to come much more naturally; not forced circumstances like this.

“Maybe Emmy’s ready to use the big girl toilet?” Joyce suggested, still trying to maintain the parental role. Keeping it in the realm of babying would surely resonate with her.

Emily’s heart found its rapid pace again as she realized Joyce was giving her a free pass on this one, which she couldn’t be thankful enough for. Emily couldn’t even begin to imagine the kind of taboo she’d commit--to use a diaper like that. It was unthinkable.

Joyce stretched out her hand and guided Emily back to her feet, undoing the towel for her and letting it unravel on the ground. Naked again, Emily let Joyce guide her over to the toilet. But once Emily sat down, she couldn’t help but notice the pair of legs she wouldn’t look any higher than were fixed in place. Facing her.

“Uhm...Joyce?” Emily was a little afraid to ask, already expecting a certain answer.

“What is it honey?”

“Could I have some...you know…”

“Privacy?”

Emily let her head do the talking for her again.

“Emmy, you know I can’t leave you here alone. What kind of mommy would I be if I left you unsupervised?”

She responded in tears, as Joyce gave her yet another painful test. Everything around them faded away, until the only things that remained were Emily, Joyce and the porcelain throne.

“Please…” Emily half-mouthed not wanting things to happen like this. The pressure was building.

“Emmy...” Joyce got on her knees, lowering enough to catch Emily’s downward gaze. “Remember when I said you don’t need to feel ashamed or embarrassed around me?”

“I know...but!--” Joyce quickly cut her off.

And, this is one of those moments, sweety.”

“I don’t want to do this Joyce...Please let me go on my own…!”

Joyce came to a conclusion, dealing Emily with her ultimatum. She didn’t feel happy doing this, but just like before bathtime, these sorts of things took encouragement.

“Okay Emmy,” Joyce took her hands with Emily’s. “I’m not going to make you go potty in front of me if you don’t want to.”

Really? Did she mean it? Emily could feel an internal sigh of relief knowing she could be at ease now.

“But,”

No! Why did there have to be a but?

“You have three choices, okay?”

Emily silently listened with attentive ears.

“One, you can use the toilet for me and I’ll make sure my big girl does a good job.”

Oh how she hated that idea. Joyce may have bathed her, made her pee herself, but poop?

“Two, I can get you one of your diapers, and you can mess in that, and then I’ll change you.”

Absolutely out of the question. She cherished the toilet far too much to do something like that, but a strange submissive part of her couldn’t help but laugh in glee at how she was being talked down to. It made her feel so tight in Joyce’s arms and so dependent!

“Or three, I can let you use the toilet on your own, but I leave the room and we stop this for the rest of the night.”

Option three sounded the most ideal to her rational side. But then what? Emily hated to admit how their intimacy was growing on her and to know how she’d feel empty for the rest of the night was an annoying thought she couldn’t bear. She knew it was the most practical, and yet why couldn’t she bring herself to say those words?!

“I’ll give you the count to three, okay?”

Three seconds? That wasn’t fair! How could she drop this bombshell of a dilemma on her, and only give mere moments to decide? It was so frustrating! Emily loved what they had. There, she said it; internally, at least. But to put it at stake like this? To test their limits so suddenly? Joyce always knew how to push her buttons, and Emily was always in the palm of her hand…

“One…” Joyce wasn’t sure what Emily would choose. The mommy in her of course wanted option two, but both of them knew it’d never happen. Not now. At best it was a decoration for the much more plausible other two. She’d have to settle for option one, but even then Joyce had her doubts.

“Two…” To even let a second pass was a little shocking to Joyce. Could she really be struggling that much? Oh, how could she being doing this to Emily!? She was a monster; putting her little girl on the fence like this; forcing her to make such difficult decisions. She had half a mind to call off the deal and give Emily her private time with no repercussions…

Still maintaining her calm composure though, “Three…”

Before the next interval between seconds could pass, a tiny voice made itself known, and bubble of confusion and distress had suddenly popped, when a flustered voice finally squeaked its response.

“One!”

Joyce looked at Emily; the flustered one’s eyes sealed shut, as if she couldn’t even believe her own words.

“...One?” Joyce had to confirm. Yet again the small package had delivered her another almost overwhelming surprise.

“Y...yes…” Emily trembled, quickly coming to terms with what her choice would entail. She continuously beat and berated herself; trying to figure out what could have possibly urged her to go with option one; the very one she tried to get herself out of! It hurt; trying to be honest with herself...But it hurt even more to run from it. Both she and likely Joyce knew that she was starting become attached to this. She couldn’t let it go now. This wasn’t something she wanted to go through, yet all the other fun things they’d do together is what kept her pushing forward.

Joyce kept her small doubletake silent as she outwardly beamed with pride for Emily’s unexpected bravery. It made her hate herself even more for forcing Emily’s hand like this, but at the same time she was focused on pushing Emily’s limits. It was like stretching out a sock. Every time you try to slip it over something bigger, after enough time it becomes accustomed to that size, and its capacity becomes bigger and bigger. Slowly but surely Emily was becoming more okay with more and more demanding situations. Emily’d already made leaps and bounds, and Joyce loved her all the more for it.

Emily took a deep breath, bracing herself for what was to come. Before she even started adding to the physical pressure, her mind was racing; a crying fit ready to start again. It was almost like a modern-day discovery to find someone who could cry this much. Her adrenaline was pumping and all she could do was sit still and hang on to her metaphorical rock; each of their hands interlocked with the other.

For a brief moment, even Joyce found herself lost in thought; quickly jumping back to the frontlines. This was no time to be spacing out. She had to be there for Emily; once and if she crashed…

Her body was clearly resisting, trying to convince her of the foolishness she was committing right now. Emily knew that all too well. Joyce was what kept her going though. Never in her life had she been so dependent on someone before; not even Jack. In the small span of a little more than a week, lingering feelings of attachment and inseparable sentiment were taking form. Why was she thinking about all these things right now? Being so close to Joyce? Naked on a toilet, going number two in front of the one person she wanted to be with the most. But it was alright, right? Deep down she harbored the fear of betrayal; and as soon as she would do her deed, she’d become something unsightly...But Joyce said to, after all.

“You can do it...come on...In one...nice...big...push!” Joyce encouraged in a low voice, squeezing Emily’s palms. While Joyce never exactly wanted Emily to use the toilet when they had their mommy time together, the value in an experience like this was unmistakable. Right here, right now, they were breaking down barriers; opening little Emily up to new possibilities.

Her muscles tensed as she could feel it coming, the mass inside of her would be let go, right in front of her; the one she wanted to impress the most; the one she wanted to be cared for by. She was being watched use the toilet like she couldn’t be trusted. She was small...she wasn’t independent…

It didn’t feel real; the absence of privacy. A setting and state that had been commonplace for decades was now nonexistent. Removing something so crucial, so essential to the bathroom procedure was incomprehensible, yet here she was, doing her business in front of another person; an adult. Which is why when it finally released, when she finally pushed it all out, hearing that shameful, childish plop in the water, announcing what she’d done for the whole world to know, everything she had known to signify any sense of maturity or adulthood shattered.

Emily didn’t make a noise this time, other than staring back at Joyce, her bottom lip quivering the ever slightest with a set of hollow eyes; a look telling of Emily’s grief, shock, and sadness from what she’d done. The moment itself had been surreal enough, but to claim responsibility for it made her even more of a stranger to herself.

Despite that, the lighthouse which called the ship back to shore though was that same, glowing smile. The one that always kept Emily from wandering astray; to lose herself in the darkness and despair. In this vast, unknown world Emily had just begun to explore, her guide waited right there for her with open arms. It was those two words which were powerful enough to shine away the fog in Emily’s glassy eyes.

“Good girl.”

It was Emily’s turn to initiate the hug this time; still partly on the toilet seat. She was disgusted with herself, but she needed Joyce more than ever now, who was more than happy to oblige.

“I...Is th-that enough?” Emily sobbed into Joyce’s shoulder, forgetting about her still-wet hair, unknowingly allowing the expensive fabrics on Joyce’s body to soak up the water dripping from it.

“That was perfect, Emily. You did plenty.”

The task she had just performed, to do her business on the toilet was physically and mentally draining; contradicting second nature as she knew it. Anything she had left in her body to support her muscles had been completely redirected to just hanging onto Joyce with every last spec of energy in reserve.

Joyce reassuringly stroked her hair.“It might have felt scary, but you did it, and I want you to know how proud I am of you. I won’t force you to do any more difficult things tonight; don’t worry. You just relax and be proud for me, okay?”

Emily wasn’t sure how proud she could feel right now, but in her scrambled state she could only nod yes over and over. She didn’t know whether it was to convince Joyce or herself.

“Don’t ever feel ashamed for using the potty in front of me, okay?” Joyce made sure they had complete eye contact now. “You don’t ever need to hide anything from me, okay?” While she was weak, Joyce would make sure to slip only positive reinforcement before Emily put herself back together. She only wanted Emily to feel good things; be happy about this.

“Mhm…” Emily kept sniffling, still exhausted from her deed.

“Now do you want to finish getting cleaned up?” Joyce didn’t pay the water blotch on her shoulder any mind.

Back to her quiet, teary self, Emily agreed and let herself be wrapped up again.

Joyce finished the hard part for her, using a blowdryer and dabbing her all over with another towel to get her nice and dry until not a single drop of water remained. And as Emily sat there lazily and blinked her eyes, now that her emotions were settling down, there wasn’t anything left to hide the sudden fatigue sweeping over her.

“Is someone a bit sleepy?” Joyce poked. It wasn’t surprising after all she’d been through. She’d hardly even slept during the ride home.

Emily yawned in response, fast to accept the hold Joyce let her confide in. In a princess carry the world started to fade away; suspended in a coming dreamland. Joyce watched her hang there so peacefully and reflected on how vulnerable she’d become in the span of a single day. It was Emily’s way of extending her trust to Joyce, who would never trample on such a priceless treasure. Planting her lips on the top of Emily’s exposed forehead, she whispered a goodnight to Emily and held her still for a moment longer.

In a lowered voice though Joyce let out a sigh, watching Emily with a slightly raised eyebrow.
“Weren’t you the one that was gonna pick lunch?” She glanced at the nearby clock, then gently set her down.

“Guess it’s dinner now...”


9 - Behind the Scenes

She tossed and turned, stirred, tangling herself in her own hair as she shifted from pillow to pillow. The fact she’d even been moving at all was a sign the sleeping girl had just begun to properly enjoy the luxuries of a privileged lifestyle. When she finally came to, she let out an unintentionally unreserved moan as she stretched, letting the whispers of the waking world call her back from a deep sleep.

When she opened her eyes, she was facing one of the many window panels adjacent to her bed; a slight parting in the curtains revealing a night sky lifted by a bustling skyline. The room was dark, minus for the orange glow that came from the lamp on the nearest nightstand. Getting her bearings, she curiously rolled over to the other side, hearing a crinkle murmur underneath the covers. The clock read  7:27 PM, confirming her view outside.

One hand on the covers, she lifted them up to peer inside, following her shadowed torso, seeing she was now in the same monkey shirt she’d been in from yesterday’s play. What was more important though was the obvious medical diaper she was taped into; identical in every aspect as all her other ones had been.

Her heart began to shuffle just from recalling the recent events, remembering the toilet in the bathroom. But where was Joyce? Did she put her to bed? Emily started to recall how exhausted she felt from earlier, and the distant fragments about falling asleep in Joyce’s arms. The sleep still had yet to be shaken out of her. Only by moving around would she give her mind some clarity. Her silent thoughts remained unperturbed by the distant noise pollution that countless flights of economic might separated her from. 

With a yawn and rubbing her eyes, Emily idly spoke to no one in the room. “Where are you...Joyce?”

Sweeping her blankets to the side, Emily hopped out of bed, mildly attentive of how the diaper conformed to every movement she made. Looking at it reminded her of Joyce...specifically how it made her...her baby girl.  A strange smile crept on Emily’s face just from thinking such things, but she tried not to lose herself in such gushy thoughts. Padding across the carpeted floor and to the nearly closed doorway, it revealed an illuminated hallway that led to an even brighter living room. But in her brisk movements, Emily could feel the slightest breeze kiss the higher parts of her thighs, reminding her she was just walking in a shirt and diaper right now.

Had she really not noticed? Emily’s sleep-lingering eyes widened a bit at the unusual discovery. It would probably be for the best if she got some pants to cover up...But then a strange suggestion popped into her mind. Maybe it would be better if she...didn’t? The second voice in her head was just as shocking as her actions right now. Maybe...maybe Joyce would be happier if she didn’t put anything else on...Her heart thumped at the thought of doing something so...so...risuqé? Then again, such a sexual word didn’t exactly sum up wearing a diaper for her authority figure…

Never had she acted out like this of her own volition. It was always Joyce who initiated stuff like this. No matter how much she tried to talk herself out of it though Emily couldn’t help but wonder if staying barely clothed like this would be for the better. Maybe this stuff really was rubbing off on her...As scary as it was, it meant she was that much closer to Joyce…

With a slower pace, Emily chose not to turn back and inched closer toward the kitchen. Her nose started to perk up at the sudden smells that teased her. The scent was familiar, and for that reason she knew how delicious the food must have been to permeate such an alluring aroma. Trying to be as quiet as a mouse (or kitten, rather), Emily caught the sight of a busy Joyce, who had changed shirts since the bath and looked to be setting plates.

A sudden sense of mischief entered Emily’s mind, already bombarded with so many bold thoughts today. Carefully, she snuck up behind the turned Joyce, growing closer and closer...right until…

“BOO!”

The voice was loud, and unexpected; especially because it was from Joyce, who had made a complete one-eighty. She tricked the trickster.

Clearly not prepared for the counterattack, Emily found herself to be the one jumping with a yelp as her feet dressed in socks slipped across the tile and her bottom hit the ground. The floor was hard and she could feel it too, a little upset over her massive blunder, and for letting the tables be turned so easily.

“How did you know?” Emily tried to hide her aggravation while she accepted the two hands pulling her back to her feet. Joyce could only look down on her (literally) with a loving grin.

“Mommy’s intuition?” Joyce suggested, giving her a brief hug. Caringly she patted the diapered girl’s bottom. “Does your tushy hurt from hitting the mean floor?”

“No...” Emily said dismissively, finding herself already flustered once more.

Joyce couldn’t help but leave a slight giggle to herself. Emily had made an honest effort, but she’d already known the diapered girl was nearby for quite a bit. Even amongst the takeout food giving off its smells of chicken, meats and rice, that peach smell she’d spent so long rubbing into the girl was unmistakable. Not to mention her diaper crinkled louder for others than she thought. For the caring mother’s ear, at least. Mother. Yes, Joyce was a mommy, and it made her giddy to even think about her realized dream. It made her even happier though to share these moments with Emily. Regardless, she wouldn’t tell Emily how loud she actually was, lest she leave her feeling even more self-conscious. Speaking of which, Joyce’s eyes quickly scanned Emily’s figure up and down, who had chosen to stay in just the clothes she dressed her in.

Seeing Emily stay how Joyce had dressed her pulled at the heartstrings in a way she couldn’t even begin to describe. It was adorable to think of Emily wanting to be waited on hand and foot, and being only in charge of her emotions; leaving all the rest to her caring guardian. The further things moved along, it would make it that much harder to tear off the band-aid when the Sunday night would come to an end, and a week of prohibited intimacy would begin. They’d always have their cuddle moments, of course, but never could it reach this level when they’d be busy all day; almost all week.

She remembered first trying to envision Emily in the underwear she had first gotten her. It wasn’t ever sexual, but simply the act of it in how it suggested her shamelessness; willing to parade herself around the house however she pleased, and in whatever clothes she wanted. It was those carefree feelings Joyce would hope Emily could come to learn and love. And watching her now, seeing Emily could put her padded bottom on full display? Well, it made those wishful thoughts of Joyce that much more of a reality. Emily hadn’t known it, but her small plan to stay in just a diaper worked masterfully.

It was the delightful subtleties like this that worked to be the nuts & bolts of a contraption that could run flawlessly and beautifully. It was the little things.

“Since someone decided to have a late nap today,” Joyce spoke with a heavy, yet joking emphasis towards Emily. “Mommy decided to order for the both of us.”

“You could have woken me up to ask, you know.” Emily retorted. She was perfectly fine with Joyce choosing the food, but didn’t mind being woken up either.

Joyce had already started to pull out the white containers labeled with Chinese characters, acting as a thin barrier to the delicious smelling contents inside. “Nonsense. I expect you to keep to a regularly scheduled nap, which you still had five minutes for by the way.” More like a mother, she spoke in a tutting voice; the kind that put Emily in a small space she didn’t want to crawl out of and only snuggle into. “It’s how you can keep up with such a busy day, you know?”

Emily conceded to Joyce’s absolute words, moving to get her plate until she was denied, having been told to take her place at the table. And of course it wouldn’t be a proper meal without Emily’s sippy cup, already filled with the sweet apple juice that catered to Emily so well.

“You don’t mind Chinese food, right? I know it might not be like what I usually cook around here, but I think it’d be nice for a change.”

Emily immediately shook her head, hoping not to cause a misunderstanding. “No, this is fine! A night when neither of us has to cook is a good night, I’d say.”

“I’ll be sure to cook you something delicious tomorrow to make up for it, okay?”

Trying to comprehend how this could have been a misdeed by Joyce’s thought process, Emily tried to stifle her mental hiccup. She didn’t try to dwell on it too much though, as past experience taught it chalked up to her boundless generosity. Her kindness never seemed reserved around Emily. She’d never exploit the soft spot Joyce had for her, but to know she was that special made her heart beat fast.

Joyce had taken the liberty in serving the both of them as well, fairly distributing servings of chicken, rice, ribs, and lo mein. In a way the slightly sweet and seasoned tastes reminded Emily of a simpler time, when she’d be lounging around her old apartment and couldn’t be bothered to lift a finger in the kitchen, but was just active enough to open a door and hand someone money.

Equally enjoying the meal, Joyce paused her bites to wash it down with her water. Eating like this was nice every once in a while. In a strange way, it almost reminded Joyce of how human she was; if you could even put it to that extreme. Even Joyce thought the reason was laughable, but there was something about indulging in cheap luxuries like this that made her feel like everyone else. A big house, high paying job, limitless vacations, and anything else she could ever want being a few calls away could easily go to anyone’s head. She was proud of herself though for sporting the kind of mental fortitude that would keep her from ever having such delusions. But a reminder like this was still nice.

In an odd way Joyce almost felt a little cruel from pampering Emily like this. Not that Emily would ever become spoiled rotten, but Joyce feared if Emily got too close to her, she’d feel these sorts of feelings from being in high society for so long. It was like going from eating just raw shrimp to being dipped in cocktail sauce: the taste was so good you simply couldn’t just stop yourself at a moment’s notice. But if Emily allowed her to, Joyce would never let such a fate befall her. She’d do everything in her power to prevent her fall from grace and keep her happy all the same.

“How about we watch a movie after we eat?” Joyce suggested in between bites of food. “A good way to send a little girl off to beddy-bye.”

Emily concurred, trying to not get so joyfully hung up on the baby talk. If she had kept doing that she’d be lost in her own thoughts all night. But with each word she could feel the bubbly feelings try to resurface.

“And I want you to stay hydrated for me, okay?” Joyce to emphasize her point had already taken Emily’s half empty sippy cup and returned it back to her in a much fuller state. “We can’t have you shriveling up now, can we? ”

Emily by now had figured what she was more loosely referring to; the kind of situations that always left her feeling apprehensive and distraught. But the warmth Joyce always basked her in was starting to feel like it was enough to handle the similar sensation in her diaper. Just the thought alone already had her legs squirming beneath the table. Joyce’s attentive ear could pick up on it, but she decided not to call it to attention.

The house could have felt like a glass box at times. Because the apartment fell on a corner of the building, it got the most spots to see the vast city from. Even in the kitchen, a glass panel spanned nearly from the floor to the ceiling across from them both, as the busy and bustling lights unapologetically disturbed the black night. She’d have to take Emily out on the balcony at some point, when one of those rare occasions would come and it wouldn’t be so windy. She could see the moment playing out in her head already; being able to expose her to a vast world of dynamic colors that gave off such a fierce glow as they faded into nothing, and the marching armies of cars as they bathed in the orange auras the streetlamps emitted. By day the varying lights from advertisements and buildings went quiet. And by night? Well, needless to say it was a colorful and bright one. Seeing out of one of the windows may have looked spectacular, but being outside and so high up was on a whole different level.

“Mommy’s stuffed,” Joyce interrupted the silence, finally content with her daydreaming and meal. “And by the looks of your plate, I’ll assume you’re done too?”

Sheepishly Emily gave her a noise of confirmation, as Joyce already started to clean.

Excusing herself from her seat, Emily took a second to remember she was in a diaper once again now that it was brought back into view, but quickly doubled down on moving to the living room.

“Ah, ah! And where do you think you’re going?” The sudden words froze her in place, and she could feel herself stiffen. What did she do wrong? Emily awkwardly gave a turn, with an unintentionally innocent look on her face.

Turning around, a sudden wet and cold piece of cloth was kissing her lips, or smothering the whole area for that matter. Out of reflex she backed away from it, but the washcloth closed the distance faster than she could make it.

“You know if you let me wipe your face you could be out of here sooner than you think, you know?” Joyce jokingly chastised.

Unable to realize her own foolishness, Emily couldn’t look Joyce in the eyes while her eyebrows were a dead giveaway to her emotions. While she let her carer finish the job, the diaper around her waist suddenly felt much more noticeable. Given how she was dressed, having someone else wash her face almost deemed something like this as appropriate.

“Free to go!” Joyce took Emily by the shoulders and spun her back around towards the hallway, and with both hands made direct contact to her padded bottom with a loving pat. It wasn’t the force of her push that had Emily rushing, but the contact being made with her ever so embarrassing underwear. Joyce could only giggle to herself when she saw the crinkly and flustered rump disappear around the corner. She knew Emily was enjoying this too, which made it feel that much more special.

Emily out of sight and with a reluctant hand slightly rubbed the back of her diaper where Joyce had made contact. She touched it as if Joyce had left something there, but of course she didn’t. It only made her face redder though when she fully registered she was touching her own diaper. Feeling the plastic backing taped around her waist made it a bit too real, and could feel herself retreating into her shell again. But she wouldn’t. If she had made it this far...surely she could keep going for a bit longer.

Joyce followed not too long after, throwing away the empty boxes and storing what was left. She could see the black hair that rounded Emily’s head peak just above the couch and could see she draped a nearby blanket over her lower half. Grabbing the remote and sitting right beside Emily, Joyce started to surf for movies. Nothing struck itself as really unique or special. It was all the same generic movie approaches that had the same, washed-up tropes written all over them. So if that’s what it came to, Joyce decided they might as well go all in.

“How about this one?”

The selected movie was clearly a horror film, depicted with a severed hand lying still in a closeup shot. A strange bug was wrapped in between its fingers, as it seemed to compliment the title in some way reading as “Night of the Firefly.”

“Uhm...okay. This is fine.” Emily’s words were slightly awkward and off-beat; rushing her tone. She scratched the side of her head out of a sudden, baseless paranoia.

Joyce had given her a look of concern, already putting a hand on her blanketed leg.

“You know we don’t have to watch it if you don’t want to, right? We could pick something less scary maybe?”

“Wh-What do you mean?”  Emily started off in a stammered voice, leveling it out into a partially brave front. “This is fine, really!”

Her efforts to overcompensate were as easy to read through as it was to look through a window. But, Joyce would indulge her if she wanted. Maybe Emily was just getting herself worked up. Maybe she even liked to be scared? Joyce hadn’t considered that last part.

“Okay then. Here’s your sippy by the way. Drink up, remember?”

Joyce grabbed the sippy cup from the coffee table and put it into Emily’s hands, who willingly accepted. She suddenly was feeling thirsty again, and was thankful for the cool drink to calm her nerves.

“Ready to start it?” Joyce already had pressed the ‘rent’ button and was ready to hit play next.

Taking a breath for herself, Emily gave her the nod and Joyce hit the ‘select’ button. Swiping away on her tablet that happened to be nearby, the lights in the living room had dimmed until they were totally lifeless; enveloping the room in darkness except for the glowing tv and the lights from the nearby windows, which really did nothing to illuminate the room. The light coming from the screen bounced off the couch and the two girl’s figures as they got comfortable. Joyce pulled a pillow over to support her posture as she partially laid on her side with her torso propped up. Emily still sat like normal with her legs folded by her side on the expansive cushion, feeling her uneasy feet shuffle as they rubbed together. It was okay. She could do this. It was just a movie!

“Agh! What are you--AHHH!” The poor victim sobbed uncontrollably as she was dressed in cuts and bruises, who had just finished escaping her tormentor after being dealt a nasty gash to the side of her head. She had just escaped, and Emily’s heart cheered for the hopeless girl, but her escape was shortly cut off by the grotesque creature that sunk its pincers into her seemingly fragile neck and collarbone.

The screen had shrunk to half its size; for Emily at least. Her hands that covered her eyes split their fingers ever so slightly to satisfy the small part inside of her that wanted to be brave and keep watching, but it was a downhill battle. She’d given up on her juice at least ten minutes ago since things had become so tense in the movie; too afraid to reveal more of the screen whilst she snuck in a sip.

It was scary, and Emily was swimming in regret right now as her bladder became painfully tense. Suddenly the darkened apartment didn’t feel so safe anymore...who knows what could have been lurking in the dark. Ugh, yes she was an adult, but horror was clearly not her forte! For her entire life she strayed from the unsettling genre, so why did she think she could handle it now? She was a rock stuck in a hard place.

“Emmy,” The girl visibly jumped at the sudden sound of her own voice. The movie had reached a moment of peace, the calm before the storm, and the coincidence was simply too unnerving. But the distress on her face dissipated into relief when she suddenly remembered Joyce was at her side. “Maybe it’s time we stopped the movie?”

Oh so how much Emily wanted it to stop, but she couldn’t chicken out now; not when Joyce had already went and bought the movie! She wouldn’t be a buzzkill. That wouldn’t be fair. Her needless resolve could only just keep the tears from the fear the movie pierced into her heart from coming out. She was scared. She wanted to feel safe.

A hand from seemingly nowhere then made contact on her lonely shoulder, as Emily yelped from the unknown attacker! The tight pressure she was focused on holding cracked the slightest bit, making the tiniest spurt into her dry pad.

“Relax...” Joyce soothed, taking Emily’s eyes of the movie and stroking her arm. “It’s only just a movie. The monsters aren’t going to get you.” Clearly she’d been wrong about the possible thrill Emily might have been seeking for.

“I know...it’s just...” The words were difficult to express on how she could explain the fear of being caught by something that she knew wasn’t real. The irrational part inside of her for whatever reason wanted to make it real, or at least used that as a basis to make her tremble and shake.

“When you’re scared can you at least be a little more honest with me?” The movie reflected off of Joyce’s unwavering eyes, her full attention focused on Emily.

“O...Okay...I’m sorry…” Emily could feel another one of her failures being drawn out into the open, laid plain as day for Joyce to see. But like with each and every vulnerable moment she had, Joyce didn’t act on it. At least not in a cruel way.

The same hand that soothed her shoulder pulled Emily over to the laying Joyce and turned Emily into the little spoon in their positioning. The same arm then locked itself around Emily’s waist after adjusting the blanket she had to cover them both.

“Then at least learn to snuggle with me if you feel scared, okay? Mommy won’t let the monsters get you.”

The movie that had been tormenting her for the past forty-five minutes had suddenly lost its effect on Emily. Being wrapped in the strong, loving embrace of Joyce put her in a bubble that nothing from the outside world could pop. She was back in paradise again and it felt euphoric; just to feel the warmth radiate from the body behind her. As off-putting as it sounded, there was even a certain charm to when she leaned her head against Joyce’s plentiful chest. The mushy feelings inside of her that had started to take shape borrowed her lips for a brief moment, making a small voice just loud enough to hear over the movie’s suspenseful music.

“P….promise?”

Joyce could feel even her heart skip a little from hearing her. Leaning in a little close with an enchanting and hypnotic whisper to Emily’s ear she spoke.

“Promise.”

Combined with the pressure Joyce applied to her abdomen, the bursting pressure she already felt down below synergized into an unstoppable force as she could feel the pent-up stress inside of her suddenly leak out of her in a bodily-liquid form. Emily couldn’t hide her exasperated gasp blended with a sigh as the hot stream of urine flooded her diaper. She tried to squirm; afraid of leaking on the couch no matter how much the thing could absorb. A life majorly lived in panties told her no matter what she’d stain the couch, but Joyce wasn’t letting go.

“Just let it happen. I’m here, so don’t worry...”

Emily silently cried for real this time as she sorted her difficult emotions. The scary movie was the least of her worries when she was so conflicted already; happy to be loved by Joyce, but shocked to lose control of her still very-adult bladder. But as embarrassing as it was and unnatural it felt, consciously aware of the pee following the flow of gravity and seeping to one side of her diaper, the tiniest most minuscule and insignificantly small part of her knew it wasn’t as bad as last time.

“Good girl...” Joyce soothed when she could feel Emily start to settle down. The end of their Sunday night was nearing its end, and Joyce wanted to spend the last of their waking time interlocked together just like this. With the hand around Emily’s waist, she pat the front of Emily’s warmer-than-before diaper, making Emily feel even smaller on the inside. Her submissive instincts were writhing in joy and pleasure right now; a side Emily never knew existed within her, and was still unsure of it herself in these moments now. It was hidden away; behind a brick wall that Joyce brought a sledgehammer to every time they experienced some new form of intimacy together. It was only a matter of time until the bricks would collapse completely and the two could truly be enveloped in each other’s warmth.

In mere moments the atmosphere changed from horror and a thriller into a field of rosy flowers and shining sun; basking anything within its infinite gaze in a shower of positivity and reinforcement. The cherry on top was when Emily could feel a pair of lips press themselves against her upturned temple. Had Joyce seen Emily’s face, it probably would have been one of the widest, most bashful smiles she’d ever seen on the girl. But the growing outline of her exposed cheek told Joyce enough.

“There’s my sleepy girl,” Joyce cooed as she held the bundle in her arms, able to see the slight discoloration in her diaper. The tv was off and the night they wanted to last forever had finally come to an end.

Emily quietly stirred but the kind-hearted words made her gush.

“No more scary movies for you, missy. Got it?”

“Mhm…” Emily sluggishly moaned. Joyce was right. She suddenly didn’t feel the need to be so brave around Joyce anymore, because being scared gave her an excuse to confide in her protector.

“Now it’s time to get someone some shuteye,” Joyce explained in a motherly tone. “We need all our energy tomorrow to be a big girl.” The words made even Joyce feel sad to say.

Joyce carried Emily into her room, setting her down on the bed with care as she looked at Emily’s diaper with a sad expression. It was probably for the best if she took it off; eliminating any possible unpleasant surprises in the morning. It’d be better to start Emily off in an adult mindset for tomorrow for when she went to work. Curse the weekends for not being longer! Against her maternal judgment, the room suddenly sounded with the noise of adhesives tearing from plastic.

“Try and stay awake for a little bit longer, Emmy. I just need to slip some big girl underwear on you...”

Grabbing her a pair of the luxury panties Joyce bought her so long ago, she snaked them up the drowsy girl’s legs, who was too tired to worry about being naked. From a force of habit her fingers ran along the pantie’s waistline as if they were a diaper a doting mother would make sure fit.

“Goodnight Emily…” Joyce lowered her voice, trying not to disturb the sleepy woman who was fading fast. Pecking her on the cheek she made her exit, opening and moving to close the door.

“Goodnight...Mmm...oo…...mmm...” Joyce had frozen in place from hearing Emily’s drunken mumbles. Between her murmurs, Joyce’s ears desperately wanted to hear what they think they did; believing Emily had just tried to call out to her. Not as Joyce, but as mommy. Trying to keep herself reserved, she moved into her office trying to not let her assumptions influence her emotions. Regardless of what she did or did not hear, it hardly changed the fact that this was one of the best weekends she’d experienced in a long time. In fact, it was undoubtedly the best.

The alarm buzzed rudely into Emily’s ears, who wanted to drop herself off the face of the earth and bask in the darkness she knew as sleep forever. Trying to put coherent thoughts together, her first order of business was sitting up to get her eyes open and stir the first embers of energy within her. There could never be “Five more minutes” with her on a weekday. Five would become ten, and ten would become twenty. Sleep was a dangerous game she didn’t want to gamble with, because whether it was with cards or Z’s, the house always wins.

“I get it, I get it!” Emily bitterly spat as she silenced the blaring noise trapped inside the tiny box. She could see she kicked the blanket off herself last night, and with a bare leg and half her crotch on display she was still in the pink monkey shirt and now a pair of mismatching bright blue & white-striped panties. They were so much thinner and felt relatively soft as well, but the same benefits weren’t as great to these than they were admittedly with diapers. Aside from the comfier cushioning (which she was still ashamed to admit), panties, unfortunately, didn’t come with the motherly Joyce that loved to fawn over Emily so much. Not that Joyce was ever distant, no matter what she wore. But when in her more childish underwear, both Emily and Joyce assumed a respective role that knew just how to satisfy each other’s urges in the most pleasant ways. That being said, one of the two were certainly much more honest with themselves, but to temporarily forget the past and focus on the present, there was a more important issue at hand.

Coffee.

“Ms. Summers!” John Holland stood from his seat with an open hand. His hair showed the slightest signs of graying, as he fixed the collar to his fitted button-up, tucked into the waistline of his black slacks. “I’m glad you called me here for a meeting! But I have to say, you did catch me off guard when I heard Frontier wanted to do business with our company, BabyCare. I suppose the best way to put it is how we cater to a much more specific demographic!” He laughed.

“Mr. Holland, the pleasure is mine.” Joyce returned his shake while she was in a blouse, business skirt, and heels. “I didn’t want today to be too formal,” She gestured to the near-empty restaurant they were in, basing it off of the professionally dressed bartender and diverse array of alcohol to be an expensive establishment. “Admittedly, I was hoping to relay a special order through you. For a client of mine. While it’s not through Frontier it’s still business all the same.”

Holland’s smile shifted partway into a tilted expression of curiosity. “Oh?” It seemed the misleading invitation didn’t have him annoyed or bothered on the surface, which was hopefully a good sign.

“I wanted to take this to the top of the chain because the order is so unorthodox, to say the least,” she explained. “They were hoping you would be able to put some furniture together for them?”

“Baby furniture? We already sell anything a parent could need, though?”  Mr. Holland, a wise businessman, was still missing the point. Not that it would have been expected of him not to. This really was unorthodox.

“Right, of course. But I suppose they were looking to get what you had except in a bigger form? To support someone of a bigger size maybe? If you understand what I’m getting at?”

“For...adults, I presume?”

“Precisely.”

“Ms. Summers,” He cleared his throat. “I can’t exactly put a one-time order through for anyone that asks; even if they’re someone represented by a company head. As much as we are providers for consumers, focusing company resources for selfish reasons isn’t something I really do; especially if it won’t be turning over a long-term profit.”

This was expected of course. Even Joyce knew it wouldn’t be that easy.

“And I wouldn’t expect anything less from you, or anyone in your position, which is why I was wondering if you might have a prototype team on hand that could maybe carry this order out for my client?”

“Ms. Summers,” Mr. Holland began. “Although this meeting has caught my interest, and I would like to help you on a personal level to help this friend of yours out, my business can’t satisfy the needs of a single person.”

“Even if price was no issue?”

“Even at that.” He sighed. He did want to help Joyce, regardless of it being a strange request. He didn’t want to worsen relations with a potential business partner that worked a field so close to his.

It’s okay. This was accounted for too. Money would still entice the man, but that was only a warm up to her true offer.

“Mr. Holland, Frontier from our long-term care beds alone we have experienced a widespread consumer response across the country from homes, nursing care units and hospitals. Internationally even. Without going into detail, the figures we experience annually from that alone turn profits over nearly fivefold what it takes to make them. Hasn’t BabyCare always been looking for an opportunity to expand itself into markets similar to the ones you already operate in?”

That was natural for any business; the aggression of capitalism itself, and the things Joyce was mentioning were beginning to truly pique the man’s interest; the company’s interest.

“Many of our medical care products receive countless awards and customer feedback as top of the line, pristine, and high-quality manufacturing for anything we sell. As it should be. A fun thing the design team has been thinking of though is including a bit more ‘color’ to some of our products. Medical beds, crutches, walkers, braces--I won’t make it a secret that all those things we sell can look relatively bland. Wouldn’t you agree?”

Mr. Holland already saw where this was going, but it wasn’t an unwelcome direction. Out of respect for her company, despite her calculated pitch to downplay its own product, Mr. Holland remained silent but was still just as curious.

“We’ve already been having talks with the board, you know. But off the record, you didn’t hear it from me.” It wasn’t a risk to leak information like this; they’d be able to manage just fine without BabyCare’s helping hand, but the prospect of business was even exciting to Joyce. “Our statistics returned unsurprising results on how many of our customers that are in the younger age group and need these sorts of products we manufacture are often disappointed by not the functionality, but the look to them.” The parents of course did most of the talking for stuff like that, but there was a voice among the kids as well. “And who can complain? Getting to the point, we were already preparing to come to you with an offer and buy an exclusive license for some of your company’s more popular mascots and characters.”

So that’s what it was. They wanted BabyCare’s already established designs and logos; their motifs, characters; everything.

“Whether I came to you now, or the board approaches you formally later, this was still a plan in the works. However, I wanted to come to you now with my own little request as a sign of good faith and prospect a healthy relationship. If you’re able to help me now for my friend, I will be more than happy to not only compensate you out of my own pocket, but also get some gears turning a bit faster back at Frontier.”

The deal was enticing. BabyCare had always thought of outreaching to other companies, but many of the larger shareholders wanted them to manufacture medical equipment from the ground up. But now they were the ones with a potentially viable on their front doorstep, and from a titan of a company, no less. Details would certainly have to be hashed out and final figures be decided, but Mr.Holland could feel himself falling for the bait.

“Ms. Summers, if you need furniture to care for someone bigger than the size we retail to, wouldn’t your own company be a much better idea? Assuming this deal does go through, you could even use our designs for added effect. Maybe hire a freelancing carpenter, or something? I’m not trying to dissuade you, or your client, but it’s just...curiosity?”

Joyce almost wanted to gag from the disgusting thought. Seeing Emily nap in a hospital bed with added rails shattered the fantasy, and even mocked it. How was Emily supposed to feel small if she were being treated like a health patient? There was nothing wrong with anyone who needed those sorts of things, but in no way did it establish the atmosphere Joyce wanted. It seemed cruel; to both herself and Emily. For it to truly work they needed to be as genuine as possible. Superficial knockoffs with some cutesy designs on them almost sounded like an insult. Mr. Holland wasn’t at fault for suggesting something like that, though. He just had no idea how deep the rabbit hole went.

“I tried to explain the same thing,” She lied. “But my client was pretty adamant on it coming specifically from your company, or at least for it to be as genuine as it’d be for a normal child.” The illusion was fragile, how Joyce was ‘asking for a friend,’ but she reserved the right to deny any direct accusations and she figured Mr. Holland wasn’t in a position to. The last thing he’d want is to upset a potential partnership. “And as for a carpenter they considered it, but they were afraid they might not be able to meet all their needs...”

“I see.” Mr. Holland looked to be considering something. Joyce tried not to get her hopes up; there were always alternatives if he refused.

The more Mr. Holland weighed his options, the more it felt like it was possible to meet Joyce’s demands. He did certainly have a few experimental teams at his disposal, and he could always see to them being paid a little extra for their efforts if they kept quiet about what they were working on...Not that the contracts they had already signed wouldn’t cover that. The blueprints for the basics like a crib and presumably a changing table need only be upscaled, maybe switched out for some higher quality materials. He wanted to get off on the right foot with Joyce.
Some other things might take some modifications...but it was starting to look more and more doable.

“We’d need the measurements of whomever this is for to adjust to the right size and weight. I should have a group capable of pushing something like this out, depending on what your client might be looking for. It won’t be cheap, though.”

Joyce limited her smile to one that reflected the content feeling of a successful deal, and not that of a doting mother. She could already imagine the countless things in her head that she wanted, how she could indulge in her fantasies the most, and share them with the most special person in the world. All the bits and pieces she’d need to get offhand would be more than doable, but BabyCare was the heart of it all, and she’d just gotten the keys to the kingdom.

With her hands in her lap she maintained her outward composure. “Absolutely. I’ll be sure to send you the details. And be sure to let me know what it comes to. Payment won’t be an issue.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Ms. Summers.” Mr. Holland shook her hand once more. “I look forward to doing some more ‘typical’ business with you and your company. And for simplicity’s sake have your client choose from our already available designs, please. The goal is just to make a larger version of what we already have, correct?” The business they did would be good, but none of it would ever compare to this moment.

“I’ll be sure to,” Joyce replied. “I’m glad we could come to an agreement, Mr. Holland.”

“I could say the same to you, Ms. Summers.”

Mr. Holland backed out his chair and stood up, getting ready to leave.

“Oh!” Joyce moderately exclaimed. “I know I invited you here for business, Mr. Holland, but you didn’t expect me to send you on your way with at least a free meal, did you?”

Being in these professional situations often made Mr. Holland disregard the setting they were in, forgetting their original purposes. It had been a bit since he’d actually been invited out to lunch and actually would eat. The gesture was appreciated nonetheless.

“Sorry,” He tried to laugh it off. “Old habits tend to repeat themselves!” He politely sat back down. He didn’t have anywhere important to be, or at least didn’t want to go to. Some part of him wanted to stay and invest time into this relationship, as despite the professional talk Joyce felt more like a friend even if she looked much younger than he was. The feeling was mutual though, as Joyce both appreciated him as a businessman and hopefully a contractor of sorts.

“But,” He interjected. “Forgive me if I’m being rude, and choose not to respond if you want. But why is it that your client wants baby furniture for an adult?” The question had oddly been nagging him, and he couldn’t figure out why.

“Mr. Holland,” Joyce took a sip from the glass of water a waiter delivered. “You should know better than to pry on one’s more hidden lifestyle.”

There was a moment of silence until Joyce laughed off the unneeded tension in the room, indicating that the mood was still intact.

“More importantly, I’m starving,” Joyce gave a relaxed sigh. “What looks good on the menu to you?”

Over forty-eight hours had passed since Joyce’s meeting with Mr. Holland, and she now found herself in a new setting that wasn’t unfamiliar. Parking the car and stepping out she closed the door and couldn’t help but feel the excitement as her eyes sparkled with anticipation. It was Wednesday and they were halfway through the week. Emily and Joyce were as close and social as they always were come after working hours, but Joyce had been cunningly quiet about these errands she’d been running. Each and every box that would arrive at the apartment she was sure to hide away in her storage room and keep locked away. She never figured Emily to go snooping, because she likely had nothing to be suspicious of, but Joyce was still determined to keep things hush-hush. Emily knew Joyce would be returning to this stop at some point, but she didn’t know when…

The bell’s ring filled the room when Joyce walked inside, and could see her friend dealing with a different client at the moment. In the middle of their conversation at the front desk, Joyce could see her eyes shift from the person she was talking to her for just a moment and then back.

“It was good seeing you, Michael. I hope the suit works out well for your party!” Amy waved as the man with his new set of clothing politely excused himself from the store. Until the opening and closing door finally came to a rest, Joyce and Amy eyed each other wildly in an impatient manner.

“Oh! Joyce!” Amy started to happily shout once it was just the two of them. “My head was just, bursting with ideas ever since you and Emily left on Sunday!” The limited capacity for imagination in her vocabulary showed as she bustled about, possibly forgetting the pen she had positioned behind her ear. “I’ve rarely ever done something like this before and to revisit these kinds of designs was so much fun!” Joyce couldn’t muster a word when her hands were suddenly joined to Amy’s. “Please tell me you want to make more outfits for her!”

Joyce, taken aback, blinked her eyes in simple shock. She’d never seen Amy be so forward with a simple order like this; so expressive over almost anything. Sure it wasn’t run-of-the-mill, but Joyce didn’t know business like this could have such a secondhand effect on her!

“I take it you had fun making them?” Joyce asked, thinking outside a few moments earlier that she was the one who was excited. How wrong she was.

“Definitely! Now, come, come! You didn’t come all this way to hear me boast, did you?” Amy hurriedly ushered Joyce into the back room where they always did their business. The setting was similar to when they were here a few days ago, only now there were five mannequins lined up sporting...simply adorable clothing!

“This is…?” Joyce could feel her joy lagging behind the disbelief in her voice. Taking in the wide array of dynamic and colorful outfits.

“Each and every outfit I made was too much fun! Thinking of how I could emphasize this,” she tried to verbalize her masterful creation process. “childish, feeling in each and every small and little detail!” Her emotions were overflowing with excitement, and the only thing she could do to seem from bursting was verbalize it in concentrated doses.

Sneaking glances at each and every outfit, all too stunning to take her eyes off of, Joyce wanted to weep tears for her well-placed trust in Amy’s handiwork. They looked perfect!

“Let’s go through them one by one,” Amy started her along the end of the line and debuted the first one, which was unmistakably a pink and white striped onesie.

“I wanted to go for a material that didn’t feel thin, but was soft and can stretch pretty well,” Amy explained. “There’s an additional lining on the inside, but this way she’ll feel nice and soft on the outside.”

Joyce was already gushing just from trying to imagine Emily in it, whilst she toddled and moved around the apartment. It would make their playtime into a reality, and there’d be no mistaking what role Emmy was in. It looked authentic because it was. It was beautiful!

There was a splayed out collar to it, interestingly enough, which Joyce made an observation of. There wasn’t anything wrong with it and in fact somehow made it even more adorable. Each and every stitch looked as if it were imbued with the sole task of emphasizing the child within whoever wore it. Her eyes were sparkling as the fantasies played in her mind like a movie projector.

“The shoulders are also fitted to be pretty close to her arm size, so they won’t look baggy,” Amy tugged at the mentioned area. “As for the legs openings I rounded the edge off in with something a bit more durable. There won’t be any chafing and it’s actually a little squishy if you feel through the fabric, but it’ll hug her thighs well.”

Joyce gave it a test squeeze and confirmed Amy’s words; imagining just how content Emily would feel in these. What caught her attention next were the white pouches, one sewn on each side at the waist level. They were just large enough to maybe fit a hand in each of them.

“Are these pockets?” Joyce curiously asked. She had no objections to them but they were completely white unlike the rest of the design.

“Mhm! I figured Emily might want to have some way of holding on to a few things. Not much of course, since that’s your job,” Amy playfully jabbed, forgetting the restricted composure she had the last time they met, causing Joyce to blush when her face was out of sight, still smiling. “And at the same time she might just want somewhere to put her hands. So, do you like it so far?”

“It’s amazing.” Joyce could barely put the words together from how only one of three different outfit styles left her already star-struck.

“Good, I’m glad.” Amy was always happy to see the joy of her works rub off on someone else. “But I know you’re still probably wondering how you’re supposed to get this on and off of her. Well look no further and take a look at the back!” Finishing her mini speech, Amy spun the mannequin on its pivot to reveal the backside, which had four medium-sized white buttons arranged on the back, holding the flap in place.

“I made sure to leave some room in there beyond your normal panties, and the stretch factor should account for anything that might get larger. Emily shouldn’t ever feel uncomfortable when she lies on her back, which is why I went with the smaller buttons, but if she’s on a hard surface like tiles or wood you might hear some scraping.” Amy warned. “Snaps would have been rounded off on the end to better combat this, but the buttons offer much better support.” Amy demonstrated as she stretched open the slits and pulled them out from behind the buttons, whilst Joyce watched with fascination. Eventually she’d be doing the same thing, only for Emily.

“So, any questions, comments, or complaints so far? If anything I’d like to get Emily to try some of these on before they leave the shop...But I understand they’re a gift.” The perfectionist inside of her was starting to show. “They’re fitted exactly to my numbers, but a tiny margin of error can always be pesky like that. She should be fine though.”

“No, this is perfect! You’ve done more than you needed to and the results are stunning! Are these all ready to take home?”

“Yep! I worked through day and night to see all these finished,” She sighed as the slight bags under her eyes became clear now. “But it was worth it,” She smiled. “It was a rush order, after all. And I couldn’t just let these things sit. I was just too driven to make them! I have a lot of excess ideas; some stuff tamer than others...It all went in my sketchbook though. There’ll be time for that some other day. But come on, there’s still four more outfits to show you!”

Joyce had already been getting ahead of the fashion show by looking in advance at the green alteration. It was identical in every way except for the button stitching and pink factor, which had been swapped with a mint green. Here Joyce had no complaints at all either, but it was the next double set that things started to look different.

“And these,” The two walked over to stand right in front of them. “Are her sleepers!”

Rather than stopping at just the upper half of the body, the sleeper occupied its entirety. Amy had stuck to a similar color scheme to match the duo, as Joyce stared at the light pink adult-sized sleeper that stopped itself at the hands, feet, and crept slightly up the neck. On all the ends their material cuffed as it hugged the wrists and just above the ankles on the end, allowing for a slight bit more freedom on the inside. It wasn’t baggy though, as at the waist the sleeper seemed to hug nicely around the mannequin’s curve and provide structural integrity. Joyce could also notice that at the legs it didn’t look like a V-shape but seemed a bit more of an outward curve as if it supported some more ‘pronounced’ underwear.

“I designed it to hug just all the right parts. I even kept in mind that she might not be wearing panties in this, like all her outfits, so I gave her a little extra space in the crotch area so the ‘V’ at the legs wouldn’t press into her.”

Joyce couldn’t be thankful enough to have a seamstress as attentive as Amy, and would be sure to tip her on top of her already paid efforts. She knew all the areas to focus on and never cut corners in her craft. She wasn’t cheap, but she was well worth the money. Never once had Joyce gone wrong through Amy, and this time was no different either.

Directly down the middle Joyce could see a zipper track buried behind the slightly bunched fabric to hide the seam. A fat plastic white zipper hung symmetrically though, emphasizing the most infantile aspects about the outfit in all the right ways.

“Not much else to say about this one, other than how I kept it thin and made sure the material was breathable. I remember you saying she didn’t want to be too stuffy, but I made sure it didn’t feel like she was wearing a bag either.”

Once again Amy was always tactful in her approach and left no stone unturned. Which is why Joyce was even more delightfully surprised with the next mention.

“And, I remember we had talked about it which I think was my personal favorite touch to this outfit,” Amy had flared the neck up a little, showing that there were snap inserts lined along the sides and the back of the neck. No, she couldn’t have!

“Ta-daa!” Amy cheered as she produced an attachment from behind the mannequin. Holding it out so Joyce could see better, it was an attachable hood that matched the sleepers color, minus a dark pink line that ran just along the edge. But most importantly, and most adorably, it donned an irresistibly cute pair of large cat ears on them! Amy had listened! Joyce almost forgot about them completely!

Amy couldn’t hide her excitement either as she gave a toothy smile, already snapping it into place. She then draped it over the model’s head and gave Joyce a good look.

Joyce was starting to feel antsy, almost wishing she postponed the pick-up date until the weekend. How was she supposed to wait this long knowing she had such an adorable wardrobe for Emily? Curse Amy! She had done far too well for her own good. It was going to be torturous trying to keep these things under wraps. She had half a mind to beg Emily to try these on immediately when she got home! But she wouldn’t, of course. That’d spoil everything.

“And the next sleeper is exactly the same, with its own special hood,” Amy gestured to the next one over, which was the same mint green as the onesie but without the stripes. “But the alteration you wanted is this one.” It was clear just from looking at it what Amy was referring to. The zipper seam that was on the front of the pink sleeper was nowhere to be seen on this one, and was in fact on the back. Turning the display, the zipper was on the back and ran up to the neck as well, but the zipper was buried away within an insert Amy used two fingers to fish out.

“I was thinking of how to restrict the wearer from being able to take it off very easily, and I didn’t think you’d want a lock on here. Those things can be a bit dicey….” Amy started having flashbacks from previous clientele. “So I took a much more softcore approach. There’s a small space in between the fabric the zipper fits in, and anyone who has full use of their arms, AKA not the wearer, the zipper only takes a couple fingers to get out. But if you’re in the sleeper then good luck. It’s one thing to bend your arms but another to move your fingers, and especially so far in.”

This had Joyce imagining countless scenarios as well; encouraging that feeling of dependency in Emily, and helping her learn to rely on others more. So many key items were essential to reinforcing this feeling of infancy Joyce wanted to convey and foster so desperately, and she already knew Emily might get a little excited by these outfits too.

“And the next and final outfit, is her play dress! I’d have to say this is probably my favorite...”

Joyce couldn’t help but agree with her, taking in the stunning sight. Like denim, it was a dark blue dress with shoulder straps that were topped on the edge with fat, white buttons, sewn on with a thick, light yellow thread that accented the custom-made yellow shirt underneath. The dress fanned out into a skirt that only stopped a little halfway past the thigh, meaning a twirl or gust of wind would put what’s beneath on full display. Joyce’s favorite addition she could see though was the obvious front pocket sewn on the stomach; large enough to stick both hands in. Large, thick stitches ran along the outside of it, obviously intended to be noticed, including the large pink paw embroidered on the front of the pocket, simplified with three small circles along the edge of a much larger one to signify the palm.

“Because the material is so sturdy it can take some punishment if she likes to be energetic, and that shirt underneath actually functions more like a onesie. Take a look.”

Curiously, Joyce lifted the front of the skirt to see the yellow shirt extending below and wrapping around the crotch, connected by three white snaps below. She then also took note of the material lining inside the skirt, glad to see Amy had made sure it would at least feel comfy for Emily when she wore it.

“Amy...” Joyce found herself hugging the longtime companion, who brought her tears of joy to no end. “Thank you so much for what you’ve done! You don’t know how much this means to me.”

“I’m glad I was the one you came to for this,” Amy returned the hug. “Like I said, orders like this don’t come very often. It’s been a while since I could work on clothes as cute as this. Do you think Emily could be brought in for a fitting next time? I honestly would like to see how they fit…” Emily was the target audience in mind when she designed these clothes after all. While she knew herself the creations were cute, they’d look even better if she could see them on someone in the flesh.

“I’ll see if I can warm Emily up to it. I can’t make any promises though...” Joyce did want to share Emily’s debut with the very person who made it all possible, but respecting Emily’s privacy came first. Once she saw these clothes though, it wouldn’t take long to connect the dots and learn Amy helped collaborate to make these clothes. Then the secret would indirectly be out. But Emily would probably be okay with it, once she explained Amy’s stance.

“I suppose I’ll have to let it go with that.” Amy partly spoke in a glum voice. “But! I made a few small additions to all of them, that I think you’ll appreciate.”

Bringing Joyce up to each and every one of the neck holes, not only could she see a loop to hang on a hook if need be, but there was a tiny label on the inside of each of them with Emily’s name etched in thread along all five outfits.

“Now we know who they belong to!” Amy joked, resulting in profuse thanks of gratitude from Joyce. “But if you’ll notice with the other four,” Amy motioned to the onesies and sleepers. “That same signature mark is on all of them.”

Bringing Joyce around to the back of all of them, right where the left buttcheek would be on its wearer there was that same four circle paw like on the pocket of the dress. Only now did Joyce start to associate it with a cat’s paw. Amy had really gone in on the tiny unifying theme, and Joyce could only find the entire set that much more exquisite. It almost reminded her of the mark Amy put on all of her clothes…

Amy’s craft was like that of an artist, and she always liked to hide a personal mark for her long-term clients as a sign to prove it as her work and to be part of a collection. Amy’s personal signature for Joyce was a series of three small circles or dots, cleverly hidden somewhere in the interior. But for Emily’s set she’d taken a much more bold approach and proudly displayed them somewhere on the front. It was cute, and fitting in a way. These clothes were meant for a person who was completely dependent on another and only knew how to be happy, play, and sleep. They only knew how to be the most adorable baby they could possibly be. So to take such a contrast and print her signature on the outside of Emily’s baby clothes, it reflected a sentiment that Emily could come out of her shell and be herself when she wore these. As it should be.

“All of these are safe to wash, but it goes without saying they’re going to be at their best if you get them professionally done,” Amy advised.

“That won’t be an issue,” Joyce said dismissively. “I’ll just send them off with the rest of my outfits whenever I get the cleaning service.” Again, it was a no questions type of deal where they simply took your clothes and washed them. Nothing need be talked about or mentioned.

Before the two had gone their separate ways, they made sure to leave time for coffee first, setting themselves up at the couch where they had a splendid view of Emily’s new infant wardrobe. Assuming everything moved along smoothly, this certainly would not be the last time Joyce had Amy make clothes for Emily. She was simply too talented not to do business with. Seeing how spectacularly well she pulled off these designs, it would only pronounce the simpler things and draw she and Emily that much more closer to the more genuine acts.

Grabbing five individual boxes, Amy slipped off the covers of each one and carefully folded and placed them in the boxes, putting the covers back on. To ensure not even the slightest mishap occurred, Amy even tied each in a ribbon and helped Joyce load them into the trunk of her car, and they both gave each other a final hug before Joyce departed.

Back on the road, she sighed longingly as the fashion show came to an end, and it would be a long and excruciatingly painful wait until these ever saw the light of day again. All in due time, though. All in due time.

She missed riding in the backseat with Emily already. Charles was busy now with driving Emily; not that Joyce minded, but she still wanted the girl’s company. Joyce couldn’t help but sneak a little peak on the surveillance, watching as the girl lounged on the couch like it was nobody’s business. Content with the sight and respecting of Emily, she quickly closed the display and turned on the ignition. The lonely car ride home was boring, but she occupied herself with formulating a plan to sneak the clothes in the back room without Emily noticing...
 

  • Like 14
Link to comment

I'm just now finding this and skimmed it real quick.  From that I'd say it's interesting enough that I'll go back and give it a read through, and it's well written.  Thanks for sharing your time and thoughts with us all.

 

Christi

Link to comment
On 1/17/2019 at 1:38 PM, CDfm said:

I am LOVING this story! For this to only be your third story it’s amazing. I am totally impressed with how this is progressing. I absolutely love how the relationship between Joyce and Emily is slowly moving forward. If there were a part of the story that could be changed it would be how they came together. I get this feeling that Joyce was laying in wait for a smaller girl to fall into her trap. I wish that wasn’t the case because I am really enjoying the careing relationship that they are now developing. It seems like the beginning shouldn’t be clouded by any sinister intentions on Joyce’s part. The point where they are now, Emily is trusting and cares enough for Joyce that she is willing to try new and different things that are taking her well beyond her comfort level. You can see that Joyce also cares deeply for Emily and not just so she can mother her. Try as I might, I am having a hard time getting that thought out of my head. Don’t get me wrong though, I still think this is one of the better stories I have read. I was pleased to give it a like and I am waiting to read more. 

Thanks for the kind words! I can understand what you mean by Joyce "waiting" for someone to stumble upon, but I suppose the intent was a chance meeting. It's another perspective that has a solid basis, though. And of course, it's a big element of the story, but the ABDL/Diaper piece isn't supposed to be the entire focus of the story, hence why there's such a slow burn right now. It'll become increasingly more present, but adding substance to the characters is what I wanted to and will still prioritize. I think after giving them much more substance, it really adds to the effect of what will follow. As a side note, this actually isn't my third story! I have at least two other pieces I'd consider the start of something, but they're sitting in the back right now until I can add a bit more to here. Everything that's been posted here (Before this post) has been written beforehand and only revised. The two shorts on here actually came after this, funnily enough. One's a bit more of an extensive piece on the Diaper Dimension, but I'm in a bit of a rut with it right now...Either way, each story lets me explore some kind of tone or mood that I have fun with and like to revisit. The Diaper Dimension is a spot I like to use for some more helpless scenarios, or destined to be doomed sort of ideas. Not all the time, but it's usually how I find myself coming back to it! The other is somewhat sci-fi? I wouldn't call it that completely, but it's what sets the scene.

Once again, thanks for reading, and I hope you continue to do so!

On 1/21/2019 at 2:26 AM, ozziebee said:

Absolutely beautiful, exquisitely written!  Well worth the week or so wait!  Quality writing!

Haha, sorry about the wait! I know it took a bit more time to get around to this one...I'm caught between writing new chapters and revising the old ones that are going on here. The pacing is set so this site should be caught up with the other one pretty soon, and then I won't be dividing my work so much. On top of that, I'm working on a few other fun things, but we'll see where that goes later down the line. Thanks for your compliments! Hope you keep reading!

On 1/22/2019 at 5:44 PM, brighteyes said:

This story is so cute I can't even. Love the way your write!

Much appreciated! At times I'm a little worried things might be getting a bit too samey, so I hope I'm doing a good job at changing things up to feel different but give the same vibes.

5 hours ago, christi said:

I'm just now finding this and skimmed it real quick.  From that I'd say it's interesting enough that I'll go back and give it a read through, and it's well written.  Thanks for sharing your time and thoughts with us all.

 

Christi

Glad I was able to catch your attention! I always like to accidentally find something long and lengthy because it usually means I can spend a bit of time getting invested into something. But to be honest, I have no idea when this thread is gonna warrant a second page (Maybe with this posting?). This is probably the longest thing I've written so far? And it's only still going. I have some other projects that have the potential to be longer stuff as well, but only time will tell for that stuff. Thanks for dropping a comment on my stuff, though!

Sorry I didn't put every single comment in here, otherwise, it'd be a pretty long multi quote post. I'm reading each and every comment, so please know your feedback is much appreciated! Hope you've been enjoying the story so far and will in the future!

Link to comment

10 - Loose Ends and New Beginnings

“Joyce, I’ll be back!” Emily called from the other side of the Apartment, who was busy slipping her shoes on. She already had her jacket on and a duffel bag set beside her.

“Back?” Joyce curiously called in return. It was hard to hear Emily over the paper shredder. These pesky receipts were starting to stack up and they were accumulated evidence. “Hang on, wait there for me!” She checked the clock and could see it was nearly 7:30 at night. Where could she be going at this time? Emily was an adult (at least out of their playtime) and shouldn’t have the right to be questioned as to where she went, but it certainly wasn’t like her usual routine.

Folding her glasses and setting them on the desk, her bare feet traversed the wooden floors, her steps becoming more and more audible to Emily, and soon making the distance between them nonexistent. Just as it was described, Emily was already kicking her feet into the Converse Joyce had bought her, fitting them for a snug fit, and had the large bag slung over her shoulder.

“Where’re you going?” Joyce poked out of curiosity. As weird as it felt, she found it odd to imagine Emily leaving the house unless she was with her. Not because Emily couldn’t be trusted, but it was only when they were both leaving the house or for work that it came off as ordinary...

“I think it’s high time I finally go and get the rest of my clothes? Is it okay if I bring some of my stuff back here?” Emily sounded to be fishing for assurance. Everything Joyce had provided her with was plentiful and beautiful, but there was still a piece of herself stranded in what was starting to feel like an old chapter to a book in the midst of pleasant foreshadowing. She’d reached a much more notable highlight in her life and was ready to give it her full attention. It was Jack’s place the covers were ready to close on. She’d put it off for long enough, and she did want her clothes and other few possessions back.

It was perfectly alright, but it didn’t do much to affect the initial shock value. “O-of course!” Joyce still slightly stammered. “You can just keep them in your room with the rest of your stuff. There’s no issue.” She had hoped Emily was beginning to feel comfortable enough around here, even though her usual catnaps were enough to suggest that.

“Are you...sure?” Emily asked with uncertainty. It was one thing for Joyce to buy her things with her money; making them her purchases and her items. With that in mind, it felt oddly strange to bring in an outside piece of her life into another person’s home. Admittedly, it felt invasive; despite the chemistry they already had.

“Emily,” Joyce started with a sorrowful smile. “You should know better than to be so hung up on things like that.” While it was never explicitly discussed, apparently Joyce had been the only one jumping to conclusions and getting ahead of themselves. “I was hoping you were starting to think of this as your home...” her voice grew a little quiet at the end. “But!” She quickly interjected herself. “If you do ever decide to leave, that’s understandable as well...” The second line openly came off as tad bit more melancholic than the first. To even openly suggest the possibility was a painful reminder of how the outcome could jeopardize her calculated and deep-seeded plan, but more importantly the bond they’d formed together and the future they could have. Thoughts like that were scary to Joyce. Her heart pleaded to her brain to stop thinking such things.

“Well…” Emily shyly turned part of her face away; a bit embarrassed to be bombarded with such heavy and emotionally-invested topics. “I haven’t really planned to...leave...” Emily found herself choosing her words carefully, in a way that expressed her intent without coming off as a homeless freeloader. “And I...” the longer she spoke the harder it was to lift the words and propel them from her mouth. “Kind of like being with you, here...But I think I should start paying rent!” Emily quickly tried to assert her moral compass and justify some fair reason to make living here acceptable. “It’s only fair since you already do so-”

A pair of sweatered arms wrapped around Emily and the soft, brown hair of a familiar face pressed against her cheek.

“Then there’s no problem!” Joyce beamed. “You can live here for as long as you’d like Emily,” She glowed, pulling herself back just a bit so they could be face to face. “But your money belongs to you,” She looked a bit more serious. “How you choose to spend it is entirely up to you, but I won’t accept it.” Joyce had put her foot down.

“But that’s not fair to you, Joyce. I’m an adult. I work, and I should at least pay something for living here-”

“And you already do.” Joyce interrupted. “Maybe you were just in need of some shelter the first few days I found you, but I think we’re a bit more than just strangers at this point?” Joyce couldn’t help but smile knowing even herself that it could have very well been the understatement of the year. After everything they’d been through together, it was impossible to think of Emily as just another face. She’d become something essential, as in turn the same was for Emily in her heart, despite trying to be an adult in defiance to it.

Emily’s face read like a book when she grew red from hearing those words, already having flashbacks of the person she wanted as a landlord; a person who bathed her naked and diapered her on multiple occasions. Not to mention she watched her go both number one and two...With that kind of rationale, even she was starting to feel foolish for suggesting such adult things; in the face of a person who cared for her in her most vulnerable state.

“And, I’ll have you know you do in fact have rent!” Joyce retorted, spinning the girl who was moments from heading out and planting themselves back on the floor with the smaller one’s waist locked in arms. In an exaggerated motion Joyce rubbed their cheeks together as she made playful noises. “You pay me in snuggles and cuddles each and every day!” Joyce cooed. “And it looks like rent’s due again!” She squeezed Emily and hoped to never let her go. Beyond being the key that unlocked the hole in her heart she always wanted to fill and reciprocate with, having another soul in the expansive apartment was something nice in itself.

Emily called herself an adult, which was true. But now she was only an adult some of the time, meaning the rest was dedicated to the babyhood she indulged in with Joyce. That in itself was more than enough, and the idea of money even being remotely involved sullied the innocence and purity of what they had. Besides, how could a mother expect to charge her own baby?

Emily couldn’t help but laugh from Joyce’s touchy manner, and kept her happy remarks quiet. For Joyce to take in and pay for another resident, it was a mere drop in the bucket as far as her salary went. And despite the unspoken flow of things, telling Emily she had a place here, it never felt right to act on it. Had it not been for Joyce’s encouraging attitude to even want something like this, as opposed to an indifferent attitude, Emily would have never considered letting a setup as one-sided as this go on. She’d have to set aside her own hardwired selflessness and allow Joyce to draw out and splay the selfish feelings within her. Although it was traditionally wrong to be selfish and spoiled like this...it was something Joyce revelled in being able to make possible in another person, because it meant the opportunity to do for someone else. By becoming the thing a respectable adult would tell her to stray from, it was the best possible way she could show her gratitude to Joyce.

“Okay, okay! I’ll stop talking about it,” Emily giggled. “Can you let me get going now? I don’t want to be back too late.” Friday would finally be upon them the next morning. Saturdays and Sundays were free days. Although, they’d transitioned from simple lazy days since being with Joyce, assuming a much more special nature. Intimate….and infantile.

“Alright,” Joyce conceded as if it were against her better judgement. “Just give me a second to get my shoes on.”

“Huh?”

“Really?” Joyce looked at her as if the confusion were hers. “Did you think I was going to make you walk around the city in the middle of a windy night, when there’s two cars between me and Charles?”

Emily found herself being offered a helping hand she was too polite to initially ask for. It was the reservedness in her that Joyce was trying to discourage, hoping for Emily to lean on her a bit more. But it was clear they still had work to do, since if she hadn’t stopped her paper shredding to come see Emily, she’d have been gone an awful while.

“Unless you want to walk all night with your stuff?” Joyce waited for a response with a smirk. She didn’t need an answer, because they were both thinking the same thing.

“Well...if you don’t mind...” Her face looked troubled again.

“Give me just a minute.” Joyce was already slipping her socks on.


From inside the car and in the passenger seat, apart from the quiet hum coming from the car’s engine and the surrounding vehicles, the ride was silent from other than idle chatter. Emily and Joyce sat in the front, with the more motherly of the two’s hands behind the wheel. Emily had given her the address, still recent from a year-long memory of being there. Each block they passed and the closer they got, what she was doing felt that much more surreal.

Jack was probably home, he never worked this late, and he usually went out on just the weekends...Why? Why did she have to remember these things? Just thinking about how they left off, how he left her high and dry…! It made her seethe with anger...confusion….and sadness. Hopefully she could be in and out as fast as possible, so she could pack away this painful box of memories and never see them again. The only thing she could hope for now is if he made good on his promise.

A hand was suddenly squeezing her knee, connected to an arm that led to the body of Joyce.

“...Thanks.” Joyce always seemed to be reading her mind, even when she least expected it.

“Just look forward to tomorrow,” Joyce’s words had excitement infused in them. “If you’re not too tired we can have our playtime a little sooner than planned for.” From only one weekend session, Joyce was already itching for more. Babying Emily and simply enjoying the idea of motherhood was like candy to her sweet tooth, and you simply couldn’t stop at one. But her urges always came second to Emily’s own pace. Ultimately she ran the show and would decide how things go, but within that scope Joyce would be sure to lead her little girl along...

“O...okay...” Emily looked away and out the window, still trying to swallow her pride from wanting such things and forgetting her troubling thoughts. She in herself was becoming hooked, even if a sense of guilt was weighing her for wanting to be babied by Joyce too...But she also knew from how they first discussed the terms, Joyce was looking for something far more intense in not necessarily the physical but emotional sense. A brief example was what she did in her diapers...Her diapers. The thought of them belonging to her drummed up such squeamish feelings. All it’d take for Joyce to change her was a single wetting. Deep down, she knew Joyce was reserving herself and would never trample over Emily’s cautious ease into the process, but it must have been difficult for Joyce in her own way. She wanted something that Emily was taking a long time to give. It was frustrating trying to provide as her baby when she herself was still trying to adjust to it. There were things that had been considered unspeakable before, like peeing in a diaper and being stark naked, yet they were oddly digestible now...The phenomena from her interactions with Joyce made the incomprehensible somehow commonplace, which now was as bewildering as it was strangely alluring.

These endless pits of thought and self-reflection were always the worst when she couldn’t keep herself from continuously falling, but it was those simple gestures Joyce would always make that woke her up from her dream and return her to simplicity. It almost made her want Joyce to read her own mind...so she could lay herself bare and let the everso knowledgeable and kind woman sort the pieces out for her.

“Alright my little thinker, we’re here.” Joyce spoke as the car pulled off the road and into a small lot, followed by the car easing into a halt. Out the windshield Emily could see the same brick building she’d shuffled out of over a week ago. It reminded her of how she had been a much more disheveled and distraught person, who even put themselves in pain...To think a puddle on the sidewalk could have blessed her with Joyce...The world certainly worked in mysterious ways. But her thoughts came full circle being back here, being introduced to a familiar sight. What was something she walked away from was now something she returned to; hopefully for the last time.

Jack.

“Should I wait out here?” Joyce asked, hoping to respect Emily’s boundaries. While this was a part of Emily’s life she wasn’t well-versed in, she knew the gist of how this had been a long-term partner. She wouldn’t want to inappropriately include herself unless Emily had requested her help.

“I’m not sure how much stuff I have, actually...” Her words tried to shroud her obvious intent. “I might be a while, so you might get bored here.” Emily awkwardly wrestled her thumbs.

As cute as it was and Joyce knew what she was getting at, a much more clear response would be needed for something like this. Maybe she could be like that when as a baby, but Emily to some degree could not be careless with a moment like this.

“Emily,” Joyce caught her full and undivided attention. “I need either a yes or no, please. Be honest with me.”

The internal struggle didn’t last long, not when the gravity of going back to Jack’s by herself was sinking in. The flare and fire within her seemed to dampen just from trying to imagine confrontation. Maybe it was the rain from day one that was making her so gloomy right now. Regardless of the poetic thoughts, she wanted Joyce.

“P...please come with me...” her quiet voice pleaded.

A content smile crept on her face, happy to see Emily assume a brave attitude, even if she was shy about it. Joyce wasn’t ever looking for perfection from her, because she’d be more than happy to make up the difference. As long as Emily told her it was okay she’d be happy to help.

“Let’s get a move on then, hm?”

With the bag over Emily’s shoulder the pair crossed the street and walked up to the door. Emily hadn’t bothered ringing the room’s bell from the entrance. She tried the same entrance code both she and Jack knew, which struck her with a bitter taste when it worked. It was another sign of how Jack went about kicking her out so half-assedly. The lobby was as empty as always and the nostalgia Emily was already feeling was anything but happy. It was uncomfortable, to say the least.

“What floor is it?” Joyce asked, a finger already positioned to hit the elevator panel.

“The fourth.” Emily kept her words brief. The more she talked the more she felt like she’d crumble. The distance between she and her ex was becoming unbearable as miles turned to hundreds of yards, to hundreds of feet. It was then for the first time Emily received a friendly arm around the shoulder without blushing. She knew she needed the comfort.

Wordlessly, Emily walked down the hall, the same one with the mediocre flooring and decently-painted walls. Room 403 was still missing the zero symbol that should have been screwed into the wall between four and three. It was empty, much like when Jack snatched the zero away from her. It was a painful reminder she had hoped to forget about, but this sort of ‘therapy’ only prodded it further.

Bob was still blasting his rock music from the next door over, without any regard for the complaints he’d get the night before. Every night she’d be banging on his wall, getting him to try and turn it down. Peaceful negotiations broke down about a week after they started, seeing as they were getting nowhere. Clearly it didn’t bother Jack though, because hearing the music now was enough to speak for itself.

Room 408. This was it.

Joyce stayed silent, giving Emily every moment she could possibly ever need. Time could go on for centuries and they wouldn’t have needed to leave this spot. This moment wasn’t essential to Emily in any way to encourage her play with Joyce. No, this was something she needed to overcome as a person. Closure.

Drawing out her hand and letting it freeze for a few moments, Emily rapped her knuckles on the wooden door, with a force that did not convey anger but a forced neutral response.

“One second!” An old voice called from the other end. Emily could almost feel her ears flinch from hearing him. The voicemail was all she could think of now; how he suddenly discarded her and left her like a piece of trash. She could only think of all the things that made her hate him.

With the sliding of a chain and click of a lock, the door swung open to reveal the womanly pair to the lazed Jack, who was in a loose t-shirt and shorts. The sight didn’t register surprise on his face until a few moments later, reading the unpleasant expression on his Ex’s face, and the neutral expression from Joyce who was a complete stranger to him.

“Ah...Emily...” Jack rubbed the side of his hair awkwardly. He hadn’t been expecting to see her so soon. Or at all, for that matter…”I take it you’re here for your stuff?”

“Yeah. I am.” She tried to keep herself reserved.

“Er, right.” The awkward atmosphere was potent. Thick and heavy. He was still trying to piece together who the woman with her was. Out of all Emily’s friends he’d never seen this one, who had such a beautiful face and figure hiding behind her jacket...How could he possibly forget someone as stunning as this? He set aside his turning gears to leave some space in the doorway. “Come in...”

Emily didn’t wait for any more confirmation, whilst Jack and Joyce exchanged very brief but formal greetings.

“Want me to come with you?” Joyce asked behind Emily, whose turquoise Converse were already moving with a purpose and destination in mind. Jack could only listen and watch in awe. Here his ex was, picking up the rest of her life while a complete and utter goddess to his eyes and ears seductively walked around his apartment. Her mere presence suddenly made him self-conscious of his laid-back attire, just as much as the state of the apartment. It was relatively clean, but the bobs and bits left about became that much more apparent.

“Yes please,” Emily maintained her rigid front, not wanting to give Jack any sign of despair or defeat. Weakness was not an option.

“We shouldn’t be too long,” Joyce looked back at Jack. “Please don’t mind us.”

Damn! She was even polite! Had Emily told her what happened between them? Even he knew it wasn’t the best way to let someone go, but it still didn’t change the fact he’d done it. In a mere week his ex already seemed to have found her footing again. It was off-putting… 

Emily walked into the room she used to share with Jack. The covers had been poorly drawn up the bed, and the pillows lacked uniformity. Jack never was big on picking up after himself, and to remember a note like that made Emily hate herself more for still being so invested. Opening the closet, she could see her clothes looked to be untouched. A few things she thought to find though were actually missing. She was too steamed to actually ask about them though. The atmosphere from being in this place was now suffocating; a place she used to be able to call home. How different it felt now. Before she could lounge anywhere she wanted around here without needing anyone’s permission, but she felt like a stranger now. She didn’t think a breakup could affect her like this, and it only made her want to sever her ties with this place even more.

Without even bothering to fold, she kept shoving outfit after outfit into the bag, deviating more and more from the actual reason for why she came here. She didn’t even need to speak to Jack to become so heated! It was a good thing Joyce came; she didn’t know if she’d be able to keep her cool.

“You know if you folded them beforehand we won’t have to when we get home,” Joyce butted in, gently taking Emily’s frustrated arm. Emily stopped looking at the rapidly changing fabrics and colors to look at Joyce. It was a foolish thing to think that she could hide her tears from her. Emily tried to be as a silent as possible, so not to alert a third party. Her hands clenched the thick fabric of Joyce’s jacket, who was happy to be a crutch for her little girl.

“Would you be able to give us a moment, please?” Joyce turned her head back on the only male in the apartment, who couldn’t help but find himself watching. Her voice carried a tone that was polite, but underlined with the sentiment that she didn’t appreciate onlookers. 

“Right! Erm...sorry.” Jack shuffled out of view, trying to plant himself in the nearby kitchen. His mind was racing with fascination as his mind was occupied with the sudden stranger. Home? Was Emily living with this woman? The more he thought about how she looked, the more otherworldly she seemed. Something about her screamed high class, yet to see her kind words spoken to another was so...attractive. He didn’t even consider his own shamelessness for ogling at one of Emily’s friends; the person he dumped. Emily was wearing clothes he’d never seen her in either. Did she get them for her? What was her name? Jack was dying to know.

Joyce helped resume the packing process in a much more neat fashion. She kept comments to herself from seeing all her various outfits, trying to make the process as streamlined as possible. She moved over to the underwear drawer to get those articles of clothing, passively noticing the inferior materials and softness they had compared to the ones she bought Emily. Not in a manner as if she ridiculed Emily’s choice in clothes or financial ability, no. Just that she was that much more happy to be able to do for Emily. She’d have to buy her more underwear of the same quality…

“There’s still your bathroom stuff if you want it.” Jack suddenly appeared again, trying to inject himself into the conversation despite it not being his place.

“I’m fine.” Emily blankly said. She didn’t want any more reminders of this place than she needed, and the thought of having to be here any longer just to sort through frivolous things sounded too stressful.

The packing continued for about ten more minutes until there was nothing left to take, or anything Emily wanted, at least.

“All done?” Joyce asked, clasping her hands together.

“Mhm...” Emily nodded with sorrowful feelings. They were by no means aimed at Joyce, but Emily couldn’t feel the need to keep her emotions in check at the moment. Joyce understood well enough though and zipped the duffel bag closed.

“We’ll be leaving now.” Joyce called to Jack as the pair briskly moved to the door. He was trying to make himself look busy on his phone from the kitchen.

“Oh um, okay.” Jack stiffly spoke. “And, uh, Emily,” He continued, catching her attention. “You….you look good.”

Why...why did he have to say that? Emily could feel her face contort, brows furrow and anger seethe in between her teeth. Without a word or second glance she opened the door and broke out into a near-stomp down the hall. She wanted to scream from hearing those words. Kindness. Kindness from someone who had been such an ass, kicked her to the curb, and he got to play it off like it was nothing? No, no, no! It doesn’t get to work like that! And as she burned with rage, she didn’t even realize it herself that tears were rolling down her cheeks. As if somewhere from a sixth sense she had known, Emily turned and buried her face into the person that was already waiting for her and she hugged dearly.

“Why...” she mumbled through her sobs as she pressed in the coat. “Why! Why does he get to be like that? Why does it only hurt ME so much?!” Emily cried, standing in the middle of a place that had lost its familiar feeling. The only thing that kept her from beating her fists into the cushion was that the cushion was Joyce, and she could never harm someone as generous as her.

Joyce couldn’t give her any words, as even she ached for the poor Emily. The only effective consolement she could offer was the physical contact she was already giving. Emily hugged tight and never wanted to let go. It was the only thing that prevented a meltdown she’d put off for so long.

How could a year of her life have gone to waste? To be as if she were the only person who cared?! Not even the one she’d spent it with even gave a damn! WHY? Why did only her heart have to be so vulnerable like this? Jack’s words were cruel, even if he hadn’t meant it to be that way. Regardless, Emily still held it against him. Even when the flame between them was put out, the embers that remained were still scorching..

“Let’s head on back to the car,” Joyce comforted, still holding Emily close. “You can unwind once you sit down.” Emily could feel the suggestions already loosen the tension in her muscles. She sniffled and nodded as they kept moving forward, unable to leave the apartment unscathed, but it would have been a lie if either of them had expected things to go smoothly.

“Ah...I forgot my phone….” Emily could feel herself wanting to cry again in the elevator. She had checked something on her phone and left it on the nightstand...But everything inside of her wanted nothing to do with the place again. It was an important piece though, and Joyce had just gotten it for her...She was such a failure.

“Here, go unlock the car.” Joyce balled the keys in her hand. “I’ll go and get it for you,” she patted her back. “Where did you leave it?”

“On the nightstand...in the room. I’m sorry, really. I didn’t mean to I was just...”

“Stop dwelling on the little stuff.” Joyce spoke in a simple voice. “I’ll be back to make you go back to your bubbly self, okay?” Emily was the only one to step off the elevator and back into the lobby. She was already feeling better to get some distance and happy encouragement.

“Okay...” Emily finally looked Joyce in the eyes with a puffy-eyed smile, until the metal doors closed again between them. Joyce then sighed, as the metal box moved back up. She wasn’t exactly keen on going back here either, since if what Emily had said to be true, then Jack seriously was taking their breakup far too lightly. To so effortlessly drop her fragile Emily almost openly irked her a little. For Emily’s sake though she’d keep up appearances in front of this guy for a little longer though.

Jack had been a little sad; not to see Emily go, but the person with her. Maybe a little for Emily, but certainly more the stranger. Had they been on different terms, Jack could almost imagine himself even trying to get closer to that enchantress...If only. His fantasies were interrupted though by the knock on the door again. Were they back? They couldn’t be! With a misplaced sense of urgency he opened to door once again, only to see the magnificent Joyce standing in the doorway.

“Oh! Hi again!” Jack was caught by her beauty yet again; a small smile on his face.

“Hi,” Joyce didn’t reciprocate the fascination. “Emily forgot her phone. If you don’t mind, I could just…?”

“Of course! Get whatever you need.” Jack repeated the same motion as he did last time. This had to be a second chance! Even Emily wasn’t here now. It was a sign! “Uh, hey...I’m Jack by the way. Emily probably told you already...” Her blank expression directed toward him insinuated they probably weren’t the best of words…”And...you are?” He shamelessly pushed on with the kind of carelessness Joyce had only liked to see in Emily. His was of a much more malicious and beginnings of a lechery kind…With no regard to the affiliation she had with his ex, his disregard for this was downright stupid, or that much cruel to move ahead despite knowing this.

“Joyce. Nice to meet you.” Joyce kept moving. She walked into the bedroom as they had left it ten minutes earlier. Forgetting Emily’s instructions for a brief moment, she decided to check the room at random and pulled back the covers for whatever reason. Apart from the sheets being tussled, there was something else Joyce’s eyes couldn’t mistake. At first glance, the feelings that flooded her mind weren’t for her total loss of respect for Jack, nor to the connection he was trying to form with her. They were devoid of personal feelings for herself, or Jack. It was only for Emily, as a sudden sense of relief struck her from realizing Emily never saw what was underneath the covers. Nonchalantly, a pink thong lay discarded on the bed as if it were nobody’s business. To the cheap decor in the house it also added to the theme of a bachelor; of someone who didn’t know the first thing about commitment. She tried not to scoff, as her concern for Emily was placed to the side, and the afterthoughts of Jack and her sudden disdain for him came to her forefront and in full swing. Grabbing the phone off the nightstand, she didn’t want to spend a moment longer in there. Someone much more important was waiting for her.

“Oh um hey, wait a sec…!” Jack couldn’t process that the moment they had together was ending faster than he thought. Her hand was already going for the knob and he hadn’t taken the chance yet to establish anything.

“Jack,” Joyce maintained her calm demeanor, but it was a weak disguise for the true annoyance she felt underneath. “I can’t blame Emily for wanting to love you, and she seemed like she really did,” She was becoming too invested in a matter that didn’t concern her, so why was she so pissed off? “People love and want to be loved. There’s nothing wrong with that.” She wasn’t even sure if these words were getting through to Jack, but his recent actions and sights left Joyce too annoyed to not say anything. “But to betray that love, that trust, and to trample over it so easily and discard it? That makes you complete and utter scum. There’s a way of handling things that you seemed to have completely disregarded.” Her rage was feeding into a cycle that she knew she had to put to rest. The man who tried to look complacent was killing her! His seeming lack of remorse was the cherry on top of the malice she felt towards him.

“Joyce...but,” Jack tried to find the right words--anything to preserve the mood between them. There had to be something he could say, something he could do! Maybe-

The door slammed shut, and Joyce was gone. The goddess he let get away. Emily was the last thing he could think about now; not when a prize as shiny as her just slipped away.

“Damn...” He spat out to no one. He sighed as he looked over to the wall. Bob’s music was starting to get loud again…


From Jack’s place to the car, the walk was thankfully enough for Joyce to let off the rest of her steam. She couldn’t help but feel a little heated back there, so it was nice when the cool air outside enveloped her. Just across the street, she could see Emily’s face through the tinted windshield, reminding her of what she just witnessed. Emily didn’t need to know what was up there, did she? It was already clear enough how much of an ass Jack was, so there was no reason to make Emily feel even worse. At least not for a bit. It’d be better if they just put this to the side and focus on getting home. Then a little detour popped into Joyce’s mind.

“Sorry I took so long,” Joyce placed the phone in Emily’s hand, who had been quiet. “Someone tied up the elevator.”

“It’s fine. I just want to get away from here...” She was already feeling sad again just from looking at the building. “I don’t want to talk about it anymore.”

“Okay,” She agreed. “But you should know not everyone could have done what you did, you know. Revisiting something like that? I’ll let it go from here, but you should be proud.” She’d been as positive and reinforcing like when she’d baby Emily, only now it was much more geared towards Emily as an individual and independent; much less her as a mother signing songs of praise.

Cruising down the road, a few seconds went by when Emily finally came to and understood they were taking a different route.

“Hey,” She adjusted her somewhat reclined position. “Where are you taking us?”

Intentionally in a suspicious voice, Joyce spoke. “Noooowhere...”

“I’m not really in the mood to do anything Joyce,” Emily apologized, already finding a new thing to be sad about. She didn’t want to be a buzzkill, but wasn’t feeling up to anything either. They had work tomorrow.

“That’s okay, neither am I.” Joyce agreed. She kept driving.

“Then where are you taking us?” Emily was already being drawn into one of Joyce’s secret plans; an adventure she’d find herself in before she even realized it.

“We need to make a little stop before we go home. I just remembered I needed something.”

So it was an errand? Joyce kept her guessing whenever she asked, the mood being lightened with each and every incorrect answer.

“Pencils?” Joyce started to laugh. “Why would we need pencils? At this time of night?” It wasn’t a laugh of ridicule, but fun amusement at her determination.

“I don’t know...” Emily sheepishly complained. “You won’t tell me where we’re going!”

“Alright, alright. I’ll give you a hint.” Joyce paused, trying to think of one. One came to her mind though when she suddenly spoke. “It involves dairy.”

Dairy?

“So you need to pick up milk?”

“Sort of,” Joyce toyed with how to answer the question. “You’re getting warmer.” The sudden irony in her words cracked another grin.

“....Ice cream?”

“Hot! Red hot!” Joyce started with a few sizzling noises.

“Milk...ice cream...milkshakes?”

“Bingo!” Joyce cheered as they parked near the sidewalk. On Emily’s side there was a large display for a place called Shake Stop. She’d heard of the place before, but the prices were a bit high for dairy treats…”So do you know what you’re getting?” Joyce asked, already expecting the girl to have a flavor in mind.

“Ah, well I mean I’ve never been here before,” She admitted. “I’m not so sure I’m in the mood for a shake though...Thanks for trying to cheer me up.” Emily had figured out Joyce’s plan, and she was appreciative, but wasn’t willing.

“Suit yourself,” Joyce shrugged. “At least walk in with me, won’t you?” Joyce kept coaxing until Emily agreed, both of them stepping out and rushing between sanctuaries, caught in the wild winds during their short trek.

“Brrrr!” Joyce chilled as she hugged Emily all over inside. A little shocked, Emily wobbled just a little from the sudden contact. “I need to keep you around more often, you always seem to warm me up!” Joyce casually flirted.

No one was in line and there were a few groups already seated down with their own drinks. Joyce took the lead with Emily in tow as they approached the wide board of orders.
“You don’t have any allergies, right?” Joyce turned her face back to Emily expectantly.

“No, but like I said I’m fine.” Emily tried to remain resolute. Looking around though, some of the smoothies and milkshakes did look good…

“Hi, can I help you two tonight?” The attendant asked from behind the counter, prompting Emily and Joyce to come forward.

“Hi, I’ll take a large peanut butter and oreo milkshake please,” Joyce answered, then turned back to Emily. “And what do you want?”

Emily looked at Joyce with the slightest bit of annoyance; the kind that still meant she very much liked Joyce, but was bothered with how she couldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. It was that generosity of hers again. Her adamant and commanding side always gave her such a tingly feeling though…

The silence must have been too long for Joyce though, because she spoke again. “You can order something if you want, or, I can order something for you?” She had a playfully evil grin, showing off her pearly whites.

“Banana, then.” Emily answered. “A banana smoothie please.”

“Just banana?” The worker read back to her. He was just doing his job, but it somehow felt as if he were questioning her imagination for flavor. Joyce too, considering her next action.

“With strawberry, please. And make that a large as well.” Joyce added. “Try and be a little more adventurous.” Joyce playfully chastised Emily, who was trying her best to not look spoiled at this moment.

“And will that be everything?”

“Yes please,” Emily, surprisingly, answered. She didn’t want Joyce to try and buy a third drink, lest she have asked herself or simply felt like it.

“Oookay...” He started as he began to punch numbers into the cash register. “$9.75 please.”

$9.75?! For two drinks? That was outrageous! Emily was the only one struck in awe though as Joyce casually swiped her card into the machine.

“They should be ready in a few minutes,” The worker said as he handed Joyce a receipt and pierced the duplicate one on a spike of already stacked clones.  He carried what was probably the order slip over to his coworker and they made haste in getting to work.

“You didn’t have to answer for me, you know.” Joyce joked while they waited.

“I could say the same to you.” Emily found herself being swept into the game. “For all I know, you could have gotten four more shakes if I didn’t stop you!”

She chuckled hearing such unusual words from the typically reserved girl, especially when it came to money. “Is that what I am to you? A maniac that likes to spend money?” Joyce pulled Emily in for another hug, without any real regard for how it looked to others.

“Maybe...” Emily kept the joke running, but could feel the smallest seeds of truth in her mind. In no way at all did it affect how good of a person Joyce was, though.

“Thanks for the wait, here’s your order.” The worker interrupted their joyful banter and set their drinks on the counter, both of which already had a straw in it.

“Thank you very much, have a good night.” Joyce slipped a few bills into the tip jar, grabbing their cups and handing the banana one to Emily.

It was awfully cold, so much so that Emily used her sleeve almost like a glove around her hand then picked up the drink again. It alleviated some of the direct cold to her skin, but even she was starting to get a bit thirsty for a delicious treat now.

“Do you want to have them here or at home?” Joyce offered, finally giving her a choice.

“”Home, please.” Emily answered, already sucking from the straw. It was pure, liquidized fruit that maintained all its sweet and savoury flavor! She had been reluctant with a large at first, but at the pace she was going now, she couldn’t help but be thankful for Joyce to plan ahead like this.

“It’s good, I take it?” Joyce read her partner like an open book. She took a sip of her own milkshake and was equally as satisfied. Relative to other places the prices for here were high, but in Joyce’s position a few dollars made no real difference in the grand scheme. For someone as hardworking as her, she’d at least earned this much to treat herself and others, right?

Emily could only nod her head, with a mouth occupied by a straw. She took the lead in going back outside and to the car, almost ready to hop from foot to foot from the wind.
They each took their own breath of relief when they were back inside the heated and warm car. Having accomplished their original goal and getting themselves a reward to top it off, they turned back on the path home.

“Thanks, Joyce...” Emily suddenly changed the mood with a heavier topic. “I know I said earlier I wasn’t in the mood, and Jack had me pretty banged up. Yet you still insisted on doing this for me.” At a set of lights they could both get a good look at each other. “Thank you.”

Those rare moments Joyce could see Emily with such an unwavering resolve in her eyes made her feel strange; to go from someone who could be so bashful to a fully fledged adult. It made Joyce happy to see her in either form, particularly the former, but as a person Emily was astonishingly amazing.

“You’re very welcome, Emily. I’m just glad you’re happy now. Sad feelings don’t suit you, you know.”

The last remark had suddenly killed the flare in Emily, as she was back to her squishy self, but this didn’t make Joyce think any less of her; relishing in these moments all the more.

“If you want to thank me, keep at least some of your smoothie in the cup, please! I want to try it when we get back!” Joyce with her free hand switched Emily’s drink out for her own, which had still been mostly untouched. “Keep yourself busy with that one.” There wasn’t much left to the drive, and Joyce was curious to taste hers as well.

Giggling over Joyce’s almost serious reaction to the smoothie crisis, she started to experience the taste of oreo and peanut butter, which tasted just as good.


Thursday passed and so came Friday. Joyce got off early and came home to an empty apartment to do officework, without anything else to really do other than marvel at her many purchases for Emily. Things were coming together, but they weren’t completely ready yet...The decisive moment would be on the special date marked on her calendar. After meeting with many people and getting many jobs and items delivered and done, it would all be ready then

Now that she had grown used to it, her downtime without Emily had become….dreadfully boring. It wasn’t a lie when she said Emily brought some sort of life to the house. Not even her fantasizing could keep her occupied anymore. This weekend would be fun, but next week it would be thousands of times better! She’d have to be her usual self and focus on the present than what would come in the future. If not, Emily might start getting suspicious...Oh, it was so difficult keeping secrets from her! But! It was for the greater good. It would be worth it; every second of the painful wait.

A few more hours went by, and then a few more. It was already 6 and Joyce was starting to get concerned. She was never this late! What was wrong? Could she be late? Was she hurt? The countless possibilities Joyce racked in her brain were troubling and annoying. Whatever forces were at work here, they were severely cutting into her Emmy-time!

While Joyce slowly descended into madness, the sound of a door opening and closing could be heard. Was it Emily?

“Unbelievable…” Joyce could hear a voice scoff around the corner, a set of shoes slipping off.

“Emil-?” Joyce poked her head around the corner, asking for the girl as she saw who came in. It was certainly Emily, but it wasn’t at the same time. Almost like a doppelganger, this one looked certainly more exhausted, with bags underneath her eyes and her sluggish posture. Had she only known what kind of ecstasy she had felt from taking off her shoes, Joyce herself would be feeling the same kind of relief. But at this point Emily looked as if she were running on fumes; her last leg.
 
“What happened?” Joyce rushed to her with concern. She’d never seen Emily once like this.

“They worked us overtime today,” Emily wiped her eyes, trying to keep herself alert. ”Because they had to close down my department after today for review and possible renovation. In other words I’m out of work next week until further notice. Therefore we were worked to the bone so we could get as much done as possible today.” Emily sighed.

“Out of work? So you’re not working next week? Are they paying you?”

Emily who was somewhat satisfied with the turnout to that question replied, “We’re on paid leave, but slightly less than our working salaries,” she explained. “In other words I guess I’m on vacation?” Even Emily started to smile then when past the fatigue she could recognize her situation.

“Really? That’s great!” Joyce gave her a celebratory hug. “Here’s to your time off!” She planted a kiss on Emily’s cheek, who became warm on contact. The lines between them were slowly blurring, based on what was constituted as mommy-affection and Joyce-affection. They were both okay with it though, as it only meant they could grow closer.

“Enjoy your time off, then! I’ll get started on dinner soon. I just need to check a few emails.” Joyce announced while she stood back up, already walking back to her office.

“Ah...wait!” Emily suddenly found herself raising her voice, keeping it to almost a troubled whisper now. She couldn’t look Joyce in the eyes when she said it, so she found herself looking from left to right. “Didn’t you say we we’re gonna….you know?”

Already from her cluttered expressions Joyce knew exactly what she meant, but chose not to act on it yet.

“‘You know’...what?” Joyce came back closer to Emily, who was standing now.

Emily knew exactly what kind of games Joyce was playing, who pretended to play dumb.

“Stop teasing me, Joyce. You….know what I mean….” The red-faced tomato whined.

“You’re gonna have to tell me what you want my itty-bitty girl if I’m supposed to understand!” Joyce booped her on the nose, getting even closer. “Tell me, what do you want?”

Emily looked at Joyce almost annoyed, who was making her be honest with herself and lay it out in the open. Then again, that’s what being shameless was all about...Joyce’s past words echoed in her mind...where shame and embarrassment weren’t allowed.

“I…want...” Emily managed the first two words, already feeling both emotionally and physically tolled from those alone.

“Mhm?” Joyce kept her ignorant act going, happy to see Emily was finally demonstrating her growth by asking to be retrieved from it, in a weird way.

“You to...” Her mind raced and her cheeks could have very well been on fire at this point. Had you told her she’d be saying these very words over a week ago, she’d never have believed them!

“B-ba…” This hurdle was the toughest to cross, but why? It was just a simple word! Just say it!

Joyce waited patiently but was almost on the edge of her metaphorical seat. It was the word she needed to hear, the one they both wanted to hear! With this, it would become definitively clear that Emily wasn’t just fulfilling Joyce’s desires anymore; no...This was a sign of mutual enjoyment! Joyce’s heart fluttered at the sweet and innocent thought!

“B-ba...by me…” The phrase felt foreign in her own tongue. Something that defied her very nature came from her set of lungs and she actually announced it to someone else. But it wasn’t just someone else, it was Joyce.

“You want me to baby you?” Her voice came back as one of confirmation and neither disbelief or ridicule. “Is that what you want, Emily?”

“Y-yes...” No longer was it Joyce asking Emily to go along with this, but instead it was the exact opposite! Oh how the tables had been turned. Who would have thought it was the baby asking the mother for special treatment?

“Then let me hear you say it again. Loud and clear this time Emily.” Emily might have thought it as cruel, but now Emily finally had a chance to get used to being honest with such embarrassing things. Something that could become commonplace would no longer be strange to talk about after all.

“I...want you to b-baby me.” Emily rushed the words out of her mouth faster this time, slightly louder. “There….I said it.” She still couldn’t make eye contact with Joyce, but this was more than enough.

“That was perfect,” Joyce smiled with her loving gaze. “You did very good, Emmy.”

There it was, that special name Joyce had for her whenever it was their intimate play. The two-syllable word that could make Emily puddy and simply melt in Joyce’s hand. And she was ecstatic when it happened. It returned her to a mindset that was becoming familiar and she was well-acquainted with. Joyce was no longer Joyce. She was...she was...mommy.

“Now,” her soft voice began, already slipping a finger into the waistband of Emily’s business skirt. She pulled it back ever so slightly to give Joyce an angled view at the underwear she was wearing underneath, causing Emily to look away once more, but offered no resistance.

“I think it’s time we got you in something a bit more age-appropriate? What do you think?” The motherly Joyce suggested, who was already slipping the zipper down on her skirt.

This was it. The weekend the both of them had been waiting for. Emily could only beam with a bashful excitement as Joyce talked to her more and more in such a way where she had full control and held all the cards. All Emily needed to do was enjoy herself.

Emily didn’t respond, but her request to do this only moments ago carried enough of an answer. Here she was, standing in front of the entrance, while Joyce slid off her skirt and she stepped out of it willingly. After being stark naked in Joyce’s embrace, suddenly something like this didn’t bother her as much anymore. If she could be around Joyce in just a shirt and diaper, what did a simple pair of panties mean to her? She could almost laugh at her own rapid change in mindset. All thanks to Joyce.

All that she was in now was a blouse, socks, and her blue underwear. A pair Joyce had bought her. Everything she was wearing, who she was, all in this moment, belonged to Joyce. She wanted to belong to her.

“Now how about we change you into something much softer? Hm? Doesn’t that sound nice?”

Emily shuffled her feet as she quietly nodded; feeling her now exposed thighs start to warm from the apartment.

“Then let’s get a move on. I’m sure you’re itching to get out of those panties, and then it’ll be straight to naptime for you missy.”

“W-what do you mean? I just got back?” Emily partly complained. She didn’t want to have to go down as soon as they started their baby time…

“And that’s exactly why, Emmy.” Joyce hoisted the half-naked girl into the air, moving to her room. She lowered her voice closer to her ear, as if she were already trying to communicate with someone tired and sleepy. “You’ve had a busy day, which is why we need to get you all fresh and restored.” She knew how to put emphasis on all the right words. “That way we can have lots more fun and cuddle time when you’re awake. Make sense?”

“Mhm...” Emily was already finding Joyce’s shoulder pretty comfortable. She knew Joyce was right about the tired part, already feeling sleepy given the position to relax. But what made her heart race was that there was one last step before she could take a nap. Something essential to this entire process.

“Maybe if you can go down for about forty minutes mommy can have some delicious food ready for when you wake up. Do you think you could be my big helper and rest up for me?”

It was silly to think sleeping was somehow beneficial to Joyce, but Emily was becoming more and more prone to giving in to the mommy-logic. Her realized fatigue was another deterrent to combat it as well, not that she wanted to in the first place.

“Okay…” Emily yawned. She was already laid back on the bed.

“Such a good helper!” Joyce cooed as she already fished out her medical diaper. The days for these were numbered, and that was something to appreciate. She couldn’t wait to see the surprised, bashful, and secretly excited expressions on Emily’s face once her new diapers came. These would have to do for the time being though.

Emily was just ready to pass out as soon as she could feel her bottom lift and press into a new cushion, a feeling and sensation that wasn’t so foreign to her anymore. The sweet smells of powder came next as the light sprinkles lightly tapped her crotch area. There was a cool feeling from the shroud on her lower half, but it felt good in a way. The only thing that could stir her was when Joyce had taken the next step to rub some into her backside, but her former embarrassed protests were now just blushes and slight shifts. With the final tape, Emily could register a snug feeling around her waist and she was already fading in and out of reality.

“Welcome to the first day of your vacation, Emmy.” Joyce pecked Emily on the forehead. She helped her get under the covers. “Now you have a nice, good rest for me, okay? We’ll have lots of time to be together, so don’t feel any rush to finish your nap, alright?”

Incapable of making coherent responses at this point, Emily made a mumble that was at best a yes and at worst a sleepy murmur. She didn’t actually need Joyce to tell her to get a good rest. She was more than capable of that herself. How easily Emily could fall into the flow of things now though was nothing short of magical to Joyce. They were reaching a point where this was mutually fulfilling, and Joyce at the thought shed a few tears of joy, to know that she wasn’t the only one anymore.

With one last thankful look at the Emily who had gone out like a light, she inched the door to a near-close as she switched gears to the new task at hand, now that she was done putting her baby girl to bed. Checking the time, she reasoned she could finish painting and get dinner started if she made good with her time. Nap after nap, it was becoming easier to read Emily, which made the establishment of a routine between a mother and her baby that much more real.

Hopefully the brushes hadn’t dried too much?
 

  • Like 17
  • Thanks 2
Link to comment

I too am loving this work of art!

However, there are a couple of time-based issues in Ch10. Joyce has had thoughts a few times around "within a week". Emily seems to have been stayign with Joyce now for about two and a bit weeks, with three weekends(?) now, with Emmy being babied now on two weekends, with EoCh10 the beginning of a third. 

Nit-picking, I know!

Can't wait for Emmy's surprises!

Link to comment
  • Mee changed the title to Sheltered [12/03/2023] CH46+47 [Important Subscribestar Update]

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...