The Ballet Slippers - Updated Ending (Chapter 63 added 2.29.24)

[Olympiczero]

The Ballet Slippers - Chapter 53

"So, what was in there?" The question was so innocent. But that didn't make it easy.

Lola tapped her fingers against the kitchen counter nervously. Lola raised her free hand to her head, running it through her head, her anxiety palpable. She hadn't slept very well the night prior, though Isabelle crawling into the bed around 3 AM had helped. Lola made sure to snuggle her extra specially last night.  

How could anyone even begin to answer the question though, innocent as it may have been? There was no common sense answer to provide.

The journal was a relic, one that proved magic indeed existed. It contained the very real, very present thoughts of a teenager, one who had been much like Lola and Dani, yet was no longer. It was a journal of a journey unheard of, one that would never be taken seriously. Not from a toddler. And not from a teen.   

It was a journal reflecting a certain kind of madness, a tragic descent from adulthood to babyhood, with no signs that it might stop. 

The writings, which were once coherent, had all but descended into scribbles, the very last of which was, although decent enough for someone Isabelle's age, were messy and and required deciphering. 

Even the theories were a reflection of the impact the magic had had. From well rounded theories with scientific and medical bases, to investigations of pranks, through  galaxies and theories of cosmic interference, all the way down to magic itself.  The irony of this was that magic, in fact, was starting to seem like the only viable explanation. 

And how could anyone explain what they read in that journal to someone? No doubt the tale would be doubted. But even if presented, would anyone believe it was real? Would anyone really consider the journal itself was not the prank, that it was concocted either as a joke, or a figment of a far madder person's imagination? Was there any humor to it all? Would her mother believe it? Would her friends believe it? Teachers? Doctors? Scientists? Or had the memory of what was once true been lost on everyone. 

It was a sad story, really. That was what the journal was at its core. Sad. It told the story of a girl, who had the world in front of her, have it all taken away. And there was nothing she could do about. It seemed like she tried everything. In the end, she was reduced to person that was not even recognizable as compared to who she once was. 

But sometimes a story, even history, can be misleading. Did the journal really tell the complete tale?

Was the joy that its author felt throughout her journey reflected in each stroke of the pen?

Was the artist's laughter, her giggles, her dimpled smile, captured by the colors that wound their way through her drawings?

Was the love the journal's owner received and gave found between the pages documenting her descent?

Or was the journal simply one part of the story?

Of her story.

Lola itched her hair once more. She sun had been blocked out all morning by the rainy clouds that hung overhead. It was going to be a wet, gloomy day. 'Fitting,' Lola thought to herself.

Lola was feeling rather gloomy herself, as her eyes glanced over toward Isabelle. Isabelle was smiling, gleefully sitting on her butt in front of the television, singing along to whatever cartoon Lola had found that morning for Isabelle to watch. Lola watched as Isabelle's braided hair bounced from side to side, like a grandfather clock ticking away the seconds. 

'How much time was left?' Lola wondered It was an apt metaphor, Lola thought, bringing her coffee mug to her mouth, her eyes fixed on Isabelle. Lola wanted to smile. She did. But she couldn't. She simply couldn't. Not today.........

....

....

....

...

"HELLLLLLOOO. Earth to Lola," Dani said, waving her hand obnoxiously in front of her friends face. "Are you there? Is anyone home? I asked you a question." 

Lola snapped out of her haze, moving her gaze off of Isabelle and back toward Dani. Lola starred at her friend. it was as though the last several minutes hadn't existed at all, even if Lola knew they had. 

"Huh?"

It was a responsive reflective of Lola's challenging morning. 

Dani smiled. "I asked you a question. What. Was. In. There?" Dani said, speaking slowly as though to mock Lola for her inability to answer the question. 

"Oh. I. Ummmm..........." Lola set her mug down, taking a deep breath.

...

...

...

"I don't know." 

It was an honest answer. But Lola could see Dani wanted more.

"What I mean to say is, I didn't look." Lola could see the disappointment on Dani's face.

"I mean. I flipped through it, like I told you." Lola explained. "And I saw some of Isabelle's drawings. But there was someone else's drawings too. They clearly weren't Isabelle's. And then there were all sorts of notes on the first few pages. Some seemed really personal at a glance. So I didn't read it. It may be her mom's. Or a recycled book she found that she's just coloring in. Either way, it wasn't my business."   

There was perhaps a world where Lola had read the journal, one where the course of events that proceeded from that day were markedly different than the ones that took place. But that was not this world. Not yet, at least. 

"Sorry," Lola added, as if to explain why she didn't respond right away. "Just a little sad she won't be waking up here tomorrow. It's strange...but I am going to miss having her here." 

"No I get that. I do. But Journal. No read? Seriously?" Dani asked surprised, acting playfully as she sat down next to Lola, caressing her friends back with one hand, and tapping the journal with her free hand. "This could have insight into future step-mom's life!" Lola scoffed at her friend again, but Dani was not about to cease her use of familial terms - it was simply too much fun getting a rise out of Lola. 

"Maybe its like, her journal, like a diary or something. Maybe I should just take a peek for us both......" Dani sarted to say, as she flipped open the book, revealing the contents of the third page or so. "See look. There is a list here about......."

Lola snapped the book shut before Dani could read much. "No thank you. I mean it. It really isn't any of our business. And it really isn't a very good drawing book for Belly. But her drawing did give me an idea of how to spend the day today. You going to stick around?"

Dani let her shoulders fall, disappointed that Lola wouldn't let her read the journal. But Lola was clear on her decision. "Yah. I need to go home this afternoon though. What's the plan?" 

It was at that moment that Isabelle decided to speak up. Well, not speak to be exact. But there was certainly an audible noise that was coming from the living room which drew both Dani and Lola's attention. Isabelle had lifted herself up on to her knees, her digestive system having woken up and indicated to her it was time to go. And so, with her eyes peeled on the television, Isabelle churned her face, and pushed a large load of poop into her diaper.

Lola and Dani smiled as they watched Isabelle's diaper sag down from her pajama pants, until it was just barely hanging above the floor in her pants. Then, as quickly as she had started, Isabelle's body visibly relaxed, and she sat back down on her butt, squelching her poop against her butt cheeks as she found a comfortable spot to settle and continue watching her show.

"Well," Lola said, draining her coffee, and setting the mug down. "First things first I suppose. But then were off to the store."  

****************************

"We're going to have so much fun today. I have a surprise planned for you Belly!" Lola explained, as she helped ease Isabelle little rubber rainboots on to her feet. "Just because its wet outside, doesn't mean we can't have fun in here!" 

Isabelle was all smiles as she rested her right arm on Lola's left shoulder, steadying herself as Lola helped her get her second rainboot on. "I like surprises!" Isabelle responded. The morning had been fun so far, despite the rain. Isabelle had gotten to wake up in bed with Lola again, which made her feel safe and loved. Lola and Dani had sat with her while she ate breakfast, chatting away as Isabelle listened about the rest of the night after Lola had carried her up to bed. "I even got to watch a bunch of cartoons again!' Isabelle thought to herself. 

"Okay. Give me your hand," Lola instructed, as she opened the door to the house, guiding Isabelle out under her umbrella. 'No need to haul the stroller with us for a short trip," Lola thought, as she watched as Isabelle leaped into the very first puddle she saw on the stoop, splashing the water in every direction. "Okay, let's not be doing that." Lola said, her own leggings taking the brunt of the explosion. Isabelle giggled, finding her actions to be quite hilarious. 

Isabelle did her best to keep up as she held on to Lola's hand, who guided her to her mom's car in the driveway. "Other side cutie," Lola explained, as they walked together around to the driver side of the car, as Dani climbed into the front seat. Lola opened the back seat door, setting the umbrella down beside her. "Up we go," Lola said, as she picked Isabelle up to place her in the car.

Isabelle felt herself placed down into the car. But it wasn't right. It was strange. Isabelle realized there was something off right away, as her booster seat was far more plush, with a softer, and thicker cushion underneath her. But it wasn't just her butt that was softer. No, Isabelle also felt as her head rested back against a softer surface as well. 'Did Lola restuff the headrests in mom's car?' Isabelle wondered, before she could process what was happening.

But it was not long before she did. Sometime between the sides of her head finding a foreign cushion. Once Lola had her firmly and securely buckled in. Somewhere between the time Isabelle felt the cushion of her seat envelope her, and the closing of the car door, she figured it out. Gone was her booster seat. And in its place was a very familiar object, one she had once buckled Eric into herself. 

Isabelle was in a car seat.  

The car seat was a symphony of sleek lines and plush cushioning. Its sophisticated exterior, a harmonious blend of onyx black and soothing gray, exuded an air of understated elegance. The seat itself possessed one patch a pink, a splash of color to signal both the sex of its occupant, and provide it some whimsy of fun. Yet, it was the features within that truly set it apart.

As Lola set Isabelle down in the seat, Lola noticed the soft padding that cradled the toddler's body. Isabelle was not tense at all, her body immediately relaxing as Lola buckled her in. The memory foam of the seat molded perfectly around Isabelle's body, confirming that it was indeed her seat, and had been for some time. Lola pulled against the five-point harness crossing Isabelle's chest, confirming for her own mental well-being that Isabelle wasn't going anywhere. Lola fastened the seatbelt that anchored the car seat in place, and handed Isabelle a sippy cup filled with water. Lola then shut the car door with a smile.

Lola was able to climb into the driver seat knowing Isabelle was safe. God forbid they were in an accident, Lola was sure the car seat's reinforced steel frame would protect Isabelle from any danger on the road. The car seat offered a sturdy protection that gave Lola peace of mind as she started the car, and put it into drive, easing her way down the driveway and onto the town road.

As they set off for the store, Isabelle felt herself sink into the car seat. 'No, it's almost as if I am melting into it,' Isabelle thought, as she ignored the conversation taking place in the front seat. Isabelle wanted to feel rage, wanted her anger to boil at the fact that she was not even consulted that her booster seat had been removed from the car. Isabelle wanted to want to yell, and scream, to object to the childish treatment that she was continuing to receive. 'It's like the booster seat all over again,' Isabelle thought, as she willed her frustration her angst to boil, to overflow, to erupt. 

But it simply didn't.

And Isabelle felt no rage.

She felt no frustration. 

She felt no disappointment or irritation at all.

In fact, she felt happy. 

Happy as she fell away into a world of comfort. Each turn of the car pressed her body further into the cushioned surfaces that seemingly surrounded her legs, her sides, her head. Isabelle fell deeper and deeper into the blissful security of the car seat, the harness pressing the soft, thick, and cushy padding her diaper firmly against her skin. It was a comfort much like her high chair had provided her at lunch. 'And I can still sort of see out of the window,' Isabelle noted for herself. 

Lola stole a glance at Isabelle through the rearview mirror, as they turned on to the main highway. Lola couldn't help but smile, her heart warmed by the little girl's joyful giggles as the car turned and sped up. The car seat wasn't just a safety feature; it was a haven that allowed Isabelle to experience the world beyond their doorstep in complete comfort.

"........have the list of stuff?..........."

"...............so much fun.............................more than her, I think......"

"honestly, me......................................actually gave me an idea for next week......................."

"...................if she's cool with it. Maybe she wants it........................................"

"I guess................................There. The turn is there."

Lola pulled into the parking lot of the store that was their destination. It took a few loops in the store lot to find a parking spot close to the entrance, but considering how the rain was at torrential levels, it would be worth it.

"Okay. Here we are Belly. We're going to have to move quickly to stay dry, so I'm going to carry you in," Lola explained, as Isabelle watched her open the umbrella outside the car, and step out. Dani, for her part, bolted as fast as she could from the car to the entrance, disappearing out of sight.

Lola unbuckled Isabelle as she dropped her empty sippy cup to the floor. Lola pulled Isabelle close to her body and under the umbrella, before shutting the car door behind her and locking it. Isabelle wrapped her arms around Lola's neck to help, her legs barely dangling down to Lola's waist. "Let's go," Lola said, as she jogged with Isabelle through the lot awkwardly, not used to hauling the extra weight around her neck.

"Wheweeeeee Belly. It is really wet out there," Lola exclaimed, as they found shelter in the store. Lola shook the umbrella off before folding it up, making her way toward Dani who had collected a shopping cart. "Thanks for your help back there," Lola said sarcastically, as she settled Isabelle's legs through the child's seat in the cart so that Isbaelle was facing Lola as she pushed the cart. Isabelle immediately noticed how uncomfortable the metal framed seat was compared to her car seat. 'But at least I get to look at Lola in here.'

"What?" Dani replied, as she stroked Isabelle's blonde curls. 'Every woman for herself. I didn't even have an umbrella," Dani added, as she walked beside Lola pushing the cart through the store.

Isabelle hadn't been sure at first, but once they were inside, recognized where they were. It was a Michelle's, a chain of craft stores that was loaded with art and craft supplies. Isabelle's eyes were popping out of her head as Lola wheeled her through aisle after aisle, each having more colors and supplies than the last. Isabelle tried her best to reach each shelf from the cart as they moved through the store, managing to pull more than a few things she thought looked fun into the car without either Dani or Lola seeing.

'We're going to have a fun art project," Lola explained to Isabelle as Lola and Dani worked very decisively to put certain items into the cart. "And I think you're really going to like what we make Belly." Lola and Dani shared a smile. It was killing Isabelle that she was the only one who didn't know what they were going to be making. 'But it only builds the excitement!' Isabelle realized, as she yanked another package of glitter off of a hook, dropping it into the cart while Dani and Lola were distracted. 

Lola and Dani were efficient, and not 20 minutes after they entered the store, they were standing in line at the cash, setting their items down on the belt to check out. "I don't remember getting this....what's this.....and this for Lolz?" Dani asked, genuinely curious as she pulled some haphazard items Isabelle had dropped into the cart out to pay.

Lola smiled, realizing what had happened. "Seems a little menace was throwing things in the cart when we weren't looking, isn't that right Belly?" Lola said, as she returned to Isabelle and tickled her. Isabelle couldn't help but laugh and squeal as Lola tickle attacked her, releasing her bladder instantly into her diaper. Her pee forced its way around her sides and under her butt, having little room in the front as Isabelle was pressed right up against the metal seat.

Dani removed Isabelle's items from the cart - "except the glitter, let's keep that," Lola called back to Dani. "And that one too - that's a present." Lola quickly paid for the supplies, and Isabelle soon found herself being pushed toward the exit. Lola picked Isabelle up, setting the cart back in the stack, and prepared for her dash back to the car. 

"It seems someone had a little tinkle time in the store, didn't she sweetie," Lola remarked, as she patted Isabelle's drooping diaper from over her pants. Isabelle didn't think much of it, and didn't respond. "That's no problem sweetie. No problem at all," Lola continued, conversing with herself, as she carried Isabelle out quickly to the car, the three girls setting off for Lola's

*****************

Lola spread out the art supplies across the table Lola had unfolded in her basement. The table was only ever really used once a year, when Lola and her dad put together puzzles over the Christmas holiday. Lola figured there would be no harm in using it for their little project. In fact, as Lola set out the supplies—malleable cardboard pieces, glittery papers, colorful markers, shiny ribbons, and an array of stickers-Lola could practically feel the spirit of the holidays coming off of the table.

"Okay, team," Lola declared, "today, we're going to make a magical wand called........the Star Rod!" Isabelle's entire body went stiff, her eyes darting to meet Lola's. "Now, this is no easy want to make," Lola explained. "It possesses extremely strong magical powers. And so it's very important that we follow this EXCEPTIONAL blueprint without fail!" Lola placed a very neatly torn out page containing the Star Rod drawing Isabelle had made, placing it at the center of the table.

'Could we truly......truly be making the wand I need?' Isabelle wondered, as she stared back and forth from her drawing, to Lola and Dani, unconcerned that Lola had removed a page from her investigative journal.  Lola reach behind her, and set something down in the center of the table. 'There it is....' Isabelle thought, staring at the special item Lola had stood up: a long, cylindrical wooden piece that they would transform into the Star Rod. Isabelle could feel the power emanating from the base of the rod toward where she was. 'This is it.'

Isabelle simply couldn't contain her excitement. "YAY! YAY! YAY! YAY!" Isabelle was calling out, as she leaped in circles around the table, as Dani and Lola chuckled at her enthusiasm. 

"That's right," Dani chimed in. "And it's going to be the most enchanting wand ever!" Isabelle didn't need to be told twice. She knew what power the wand held. And here were her friends, as always, there for her in her time of need. Together, they would craft the magical wand, and Isabelle would be one step closer to her salvation. 

With Lola and Dani's guidance, the three girls began the crafting adventure. "Look at all these colors, Isabelle!" Dani exclaimed. "What color should we start with?" Isabelle giggled and pointed to a bright blue paint, her eyes sparkling.

Isabelle dipped her fingers into a bowl of paint, her face lighting up as she spread color onto the wooden stick. Isabelle took her time, frequently consulting her blueprint to ensure that she was coloring the rod to specifications. Lola and Dani joined in, electing to use paint brushes rather than their finders, shading the rod and creating more defined lines to correct for Isabelle's haphazard mess. From Isabelle's perspective, however, it had all been here..

As they painted, Isabelle began to share the story about the Star Rod, weaving tales of magical realms and dreams coming true. Isabelle left out the true purpose she would need it for. 'But Lola and Dani are entitled to know of its power,' Isabelle decided. 'Perhaps they could even get a wish from it too.' Lola and Dani played happily along as Isabelle told unbelievable tales, asking questions to ensure they understood exactly how the Star Rod worked.

'Hmmm so it needs a magic caster, does it now?" Dani asked, making a suggestive head nod toward Lola that Isabelle didn't pick up on.

'Yes!" Isabelle confirmed, as she allowed Lola to begin wiping her fingers clear of the paint. The poor girl had gotten paint all over her shirt, pants, and even her face which she just insisted on touching. In fact, there was even a spot of dried purple paint in Isabelle's nostril where the girl had picked her nose after just dipping her fingers in the freshly poured purple paint. "We need to find someone with magic first so they can give us all our wishes!"

"Hmmmmmm. You know what Isabelle," Lola offered, as she started to wipe Isabelle's second hand. "I think Dani may just be able to find someone with magic powers. But it may take her.......oh I don't know....six days or so to find them," Lola explained, responding to Dani's inquiry without revealing their plan to Isabelle.

Isabelle's jaw nearly dropped. "Can you Dani? Can you really?" It was all coming together. Isabelle was going to solve the conundrum. It would all be resolved.

"Oh, oh yes. I think I can sweetie," Dani responded, pulling out the pliable cardboard that she started shaping into a three dimensional star. "I am pretty certain I'll be able to."

Lola and Isabelle started working on the decorations, as Dani worked to craft the star for the top of the wand.  Isabelle selected sparkling sticky stars to add to the wand's handle, giggling as she carefully placed them onto the wooden stick. Lola helped guide the placement, steadying Isabelle's wobbly hands as they worked together to place the stars in a spiral up the wand's handle

"Star is ready!" Dani announced, as she put the finishing touches on shaping the bright, yellow star. "Want to put some gold glitter on it Belly?" 

'What a ridiculous question,' Isabelle thought. 'Of course I do.' Isabelle nodded faster than she knew her head could move. Dani smiled, and helped Isabelle apply some glue on to the star, careful not to damage it, as Isabelle dumped clumps of glitter everywhere. Dani than used a hot glue gun to secure the star to the rod.

"Now," Lola announced, "let's add a touch of ribbon to make it even more magical." Dani showed Isabelle how to tie a ribbon onto the wand, creating a flowing tail that would dance in the breeze. Isabelle watched in fascination, mimicking Dani's actions as best as her tiny hands could. With Lola's help, Isabelle was able to secure the ribbon to the base, the blue tails flowing in the air.

As the final touches were added, the Star Rod came to life—a kaleidoscope of colors, glitter, and imagination. "It's perfect," Isabelle said, her eyes shining with pride. Isabelle couldn't help but clap her hands, her face glowing with accomplishment.

Dani held up the Star Rod and declared, "With this wand, all wishes can come true," as she handed it to Isabelle. Isabelle's eyes widened, and she took the Star Rod in her hands, holding it with a mixture of wonder and delight. Isabelle could feel its power rupture through her body, her bladder releasing at as it did and filling her soggy diaper up even more. Isabelle turned her gaze to Lola and Dani. She knew what she needed to do.

"Thank you.........thank you so much." Isabelle said, as a yawn emerged from her teeny mouth. 

"You're welcome sweetie," Lola responded. "Why don't we leave the wand with Dani for now," Lola stood up, taking the wand and handing it back to Dani, "while I take you upstairs." Lola lifted Isabelle up, the weight of her wet diaper pulling her pants down. "Someone needs a fresh diaper. And a nap." Isabelle didn't protest. Before Lola even had her on the ground floor, Isabelle was asleep on Lola's shoulder. 

*********

Isabelle sat in her high chair as Lola put bits of cut up chicken pieces on her tray for her to eat. After putting Isabelle down for her nap, Lola and Dani took longer than expected to clean the basement.

'She got glitter EVERYWHERE," Dani complained, seemingly unable to even find it all. "It's like she tried to find new places to throw it." 

Lola smiled. It was a complete mess, and by the time they finished, Dani said her goodbye and was off, Star Rod in her possession. Dani was careful to cover it in a few plastic bags to protect it from the ceaseless downpour.

Lola was exhausted from the weekend. But she knew her dad and Jane would be home soon, and that Isabelle would want to eat dinner soon after she woke from her nap. So Lola worked to tidy up the house. She stripped her bed and washed the sheets, the faint linger of Isabelle's soiled diapers having made their home in her room. Lola then tidied up the kitchen, and started to make dinner. "I think I'm going to have to put myself to bed early tonight too," Lola told herself, as she put two chicken breasts into the pre-heated oven, just as she heard Isabelle call to her from upstairs.

Lola had placed Isabelle in front of the television while she finished dinner. Before the chicken was done, Lola felt her cell phone ring. Seeing it was her dad, she quickly picked it up, putting it on speaker phone. Isabelle turned her head as Lola spoke, catching parts of the conversation.

"Hey dad."

"..........in the car......"

"Oh cool. Hey Jane.............fun?"

"....................possible without you..........................little angel?"

"She's good..................bed with me again.............television....................dinner.......................exhausted."

".......not used to being able to do that.............cant' get out on her own at home...............taste of what it's like................."

"Hah. I'm not sure about that," Lola said, as she made her way over to Isabelle, sitting down next to her on the floor. Lola slipped her hand down Isabelle's pants, slipping her fingers into Isabelle's diaper to check on it as her dad and Jane continued to speak.

"Well were on our way back," Isabelle heard Sam explain, the phone now close enough to hear it all. 'But we're going to be a little later than expected. The rain on the roads is really bad. Are you guys okay there."

"Yup," Lola responded, removing her hand from Isabelle's diaper, it only having been wet once, Lola determined, since she was put down for her nap. "Well see you when we see you. It's no problem. We're going to have a quiet night here I think." 

"Thank you Lola." It was Jane speaking now. "How's my little princess? Is she behaving?"

"HI MOMMMMMY!" The sound of her mom's voice for the first time in days warmed Isabelle's heart. She couldn't wait to see her mom again.

"HI SWEETIE!" Jane called back. Lola laughed - it sounded like Jane had as much enthusiasm in her voice as Isabelle. "I can't wait to see you baby. You be a good girl for Lola for a little bit longer, okay? Mommy is coming as fast as she can!"

"OTAY MOMMY!" Isabelle called back, before turning back to her television show.

"Don't worry Jane, we're all good here. We'll see you soon. Say Bye-bye Belly!"

"BYE MOMMMMY I LOVE YOU!"

"Bye sweetie. And goodbye Lola - see you soon!"

After dinner, Lola didn't have much energy to play, so lifted Isabelle out of her high chair and brough her downstairs to the theater. "How about we put on a movie while we wait for you mommy?" Lola proposed, setting Isabelle down in the middle chair in the front. 

'Sounds fun!" Isabelle responded. "But can we not watch the monster movie?" 

Lola laughed. "No, we won't watch the monster movie. We'll watch something better. How do you feel about Rover-Roo? Do you know who that is?" Lola asked, as she flipped through Getflix, spotting the movie. Lola turned to see Isabelle smiling and nodding. "Perfect, I'll put that on." 

Lola recalled starting the movie. She recalled the opening music play as she reclined her seat. Lola recalled Isabelle climbing off of her own chair, and laying down on Lola instead. Lola even recalled the group find their first clue. But Lola didn't remember anything else, as she fell fast asleep with Isabelle in her arms.

********************

"Helllloooooooo there." Lola heard Jane's voice call, as her eyes shot open, spotting Jane standing over her, and her dad standing behind Jane laughing, holding his phone out and taking a photo. Lola started to shift to sit up, panicking that Jane might be angry that she fell asleep. But she realized she had Isabelle laying on top of her, and so thought better of it. 

"Looks like you needed a nap too, huh?" Sam joked, making sure to be quiet enough not to wake Isabelle.

"Oh hush," Jane said, playfully slapping Sam's shoulder, who feigned pain at the hit. "And don't worry about waking her Lola. It's okay."

Lola nodded, as she gently shook Isabelle to wake up. "Belly. Bellllllyyyyyy......Wake up. Look who's here Belly. It's your mommy....." 

Isabelle slowly opened her eyes, fighting off her exhaustion as best she could. ".........huh.........Mom....mommy!" Isabelle called, as she climbed off of Lola and into her mom's waiting arms. Lola watched as Jane scooped Isabelle up tightly into her arms, holding her snugly against her body.

"My sweet, sweet little girl. Mommy missed you SO much!" Jane said, as she kissed Isabelle on her head before holding her back out. "Did you have SO much fun with Lola. It looks like she took extra good care of you!"

Isabelle rubbed her eyes and nodded. "I had the bestest time mommy. Can I stay with Lola again soon? Can I? Can I please?"

Lola's felt like her heart was going to explode. She was overwhelmed with love, and was so happy that Isabelle had actually had fun with her. 

"Oh, well, I think Lola needs a little recovery from having so much fun with you all weekend," Jane explained. "But as soon as she does," Jane said, now looking at Isabelle, "You can stay with Lola whenever she has time to watch you. Mommy trusts her completely." 

No. Lola had been wrong. NOW her heart felt like it was going to explode, and it took everything she had in her not to cry then and there. "Thank you Jane. And she's always welcome."

"Let's get you home to bed sweetie. You have a long day tomorrow at school. We packed the car while you were snoozing away on Lola," Jane explained. "Thank you Lola. Truly. From the bottom of my heart. And goodbye you," Jane said, leaning to the side and kissing Sam as she held Isabelle. 

"Wait," Lola called, before fetching something behind the couch. "This is for her. For Isabelle," Lola explained, handing Jane a wrapped gift. "it's nothing, really," Lola explained. "I just thought she would like it."

[BabySofia]

37 minutes ago, Olympiczero said:

It was a sad story, really. That was what the journal was at its core. Sad. It told the story of a girl, who had the world in front of her, have it all taken away. And there was nothing she could do about. It seemed like she tried everything. In the end, she was reduced to person that was not even recognizable as compared to who she once was. 

The question I have is what she does with the story here...? Creating her star rod was maybe her way to help her? I'm curious if she can help figure out it's related to the shoes? 

Toddler Belly is super cute though! She's definitely nowhere near potty training now!

[Olympiczero]

31 minutes ago, BabySofia said:

The question I have is what she does with the story here...? Creating her star rod was maybe her way to help her? I'm curious if she can help figure out it's related to the shoes? 

I suppose we'll both have to wait to find out! So far her theories haven't worked out so well. But perhaps the Star Rod one will be different. The part you quoted is just one part of her tale, and I tried to reflect in the following few paragraphs. I think Isabelle has, in many ways, come to really love what has happened to her. But it isn't surprising to me she's still trying to get back, even if its just a matter of being fixated on the goal. I think readers can expect to see some real self-reflection as Isabelle tries decide what it is she may want.

31 minutes ago, BabySofia said:

Toddler Belly is super cute though! She's definitely nowhere near potty training now!

I happen to think so. I am glad you do too! I' still hoping to find an artist to bring it to life (still searching!)

Thank you for continuing to be such a wonderful and supportive reader🥰.  I'm trying to engage with commenters more between chapters now. 

[dmavn]

You really have a talent for description.. That car seat.. I am soooo jealous.. I WANT ONE!! 

This story flows sooo well. Not sure if I am weird, but when I read, which is probably much slower than most, I picture everything in my mind. Most stories what I see in my head is like a picture book, read some lines and see an image. Your work here has been like a full length movie playing in my head. Really, Fantastic job!

[Olympiczero]

9 hours ago, dmavn said:

You really have a talent for description.. That car seat.. I am soooo jealous.. I WANT ONE!! 

This story flows sooo well. Not sure if I am weird, but when I read, which is probably much slower than most, I picture everything in my mind. Most stories what I see in my head is like a picture book, read some lines and see an image. Your work here has been like a full length movie playing in my head. Really, Fantastic job!

Thank you so much for your kind words! The car seat does sound comfy, doesn't? I am a very visual person as well, so I do the same. I just want everyone else to see what I see when I picture Isabelle and co. in my head, so I am thrilled to hear that you've been able to do the same.

Thank you for your comments and support!

[Olympiczero]

The Ballet Slippers - Chapter 54

The soft morning light gently filtered through the curtains of Isabelle's room, casting a warm and golden glow on her cheek. Isabelle smiled as she felt the warmth of the morning sun against her. After a full day of wet, dreary rain, the cool sunny autumn day was welcome.

Isabelle had plenty to be happy about that morning, as she stretched her little legs out beneath her blanket, her soaked night diaper underneath her. Isabelle had just had the best weekend she could recall in recent memory; she had spent every waking minute with Lola and Dani. And, as though that wasn't enough, Isabelle couldn't recall having a more productive few days working toward fixing whatever it was that was happening to her. 

'I have the wand,' Isabelle reminded herself. It was half of the plan. 'And Dani is going to help with the second half,' Isabelle recalled the moment Lola had said that Dani knew a magic caster. 'What were the odds of that?' Isabelle wondered, though disappointed Dani had never previously shared the identity of her magical friend with Isabelle before now. Either way, it meant Isabelle could, for the first time, simply enjoy herself, and not worry about anything other than just being Isabelle. 

Isabelle felt herself sink into her mattress. It had been so nice climbing into Lola's bed each of the last two nights. Even better waking up there. And though she missed feeling Lola's arm around her, there was something special about sleeping in your own bed. 'In fact, I don't think my bed has ever felt more comfy!'

Isabelle's nose flickered as the scents of her room filled her body. The scent was a delicate medley of clean cotton and baby powder, swirled around with hints of chamomile and lavender from the lotions Jane lathered Isabelle in each morning and night. It an aroma that enveloped the senses like a comforting embrace.

Isabelle allowed herself to open her eyes but for one moment, spotting the canopy of pink and and cream that hung over her. The little lights that were laced through the fabric shone dimly in the morning light. Isabelle shut her eyes once more, taking advantage of every moment she could that morning before her mom would inevitably come in to start the day. 

Isabelle let Rabbity go, stretching her arms above her head, feeling as her well rested body extended upward, before allowing her arms to spread out at her sides. But as she did so, something happened that Isabelle had not quite expected; her the tips of her fingers on each hand hit something. Something hard. Isabelle winced and pulled her hands back in to safety.

'Did I roll in the night? Is my body sideways?' Isabelle wondered if she had simply hit her headboard. "But that wouldn't explain why my other hand hit something. Unless.......had Isabelle hit her headboard AND the footboard? 'Am I.....Am I big again?'  

Isabelle's eyelids fluttered open. She could hardly believe it. Could it really be? Isabelle turned to her left, her heart beating rapidly. 'Could it be all over?' 

Isabelle blinked in confusion at the sight that greeted her.

It wasn't a headboard. And it certainly wasn't a footboard. 

No, before Isabelle were a series of wooden slats. As Isabelle gazed up and down her bed, she saw that the slats ran from below her feet to above her head. At the base of her bed was a solid piece of material Isabelle could not see through. But as her eyes traced the opposite side of her bed to her right, another series of slats rising up from the bed stood firm and tall. Isabelle didn't need to look behind her head to confirm what she already knew.

Isabelle was laying in a crib. 

The crib itself was large enough that Isabelle fit more than comfortably. Even stretched out as much as she could, she could neither reach the top nor the bottom of it, and the tips of her fingers only grazed the edges when she reached out sideways. Isabelle sat up, her heart rate not slowing down, to take in the sight around her. 

The crib sat almost exactly where her bed had been, except laying in the other direction. with on of the crib's slatted sides resting against the back wall of her room. The crib's simple, but sturdy wooden frame was painted in a soft shade of lavender. The crib was adorned with delicate flowers, which ran down each of the cylindrical slats that kept Isabelle confined within in. The flowers were decorated in pinks, yellows, reds, and blues, and Isabelle couldn't help but appreciate the beauty and detail that had gone into it. 

Isabelle's small hands reached out as Isabelle sat but on her butt, pulling her legs toward her. Isabelle could feel the comforting squish move around underneath her, a smile naturally appearing on her face. Isabelle used her fingers to trace one of the flowers closest to her, her attention focused on the beauty of it rather than her situation.  

Isabelle pulled her hand back inward, placing it on the ground and using it, and her other hand, to lift herself to her feet. Between the soft, plush mattress, and her very soggy diaper, Isabelle struggle to lift herself up, eventually using the wooden slats as a crutch to steady herself. As she stood, Isabelle was surprised to see how high the slats reached, her gaze barely hovering above the barrier that kept her contained. 

Isabelle gazed around the rest of her room.  For the most part, everything was still where it was supposed to be. Her dollhouse and toys lay in the corner to her right, looking recently used and played with. Her changing table, though appearing larger to her eyes since she last saw it, sat clean and blissfully along the wall. 

Isabelle's eyes moved to her left, where her closet stood tall and open, her clothes neatly hung on their usual racks. Isabelle's desk and coloring items were all perfectly organized where she had last seen them. 

However, as Isabelle's eyes moved to her immediate left, there was one difference. In the corner, where there had once been a nightstand, was a pile, so high Isabelle could hardly believe it, of stuffed animals. Isabelle looked and looked, seeing stuffie after stuffie piled high. Elephants and penguins, whales and lions. Each animal seemed larger than the rest. 

Isabelle needed to explore. More than anything, she felt the need to jump into the pile of stuffies. Isabelle did her best to lift herself up, intending to go over and out of the crib. "Shooey!" Isabelle exclaimed, unable to lift herself over. 'New strategy,' Isabelle thought to herself, this time swinging one leg up in an effort to get it over the side of the bed. 

'MISS!' 

But Isabelle was not about to give up. With all of her might, Isabelle threw her leg over once more.........

"GOT IT!" Isabelle called out, too excited to contain herself. 

But it was at that moment that the door to her bedroom opened up. Standing there, watching the scene unfold was her mom. And though in Isabelle's mind, she had never slept in that crib before once in her life, she had a sinking feeling she was violating some rules she should have known about.

"ISABELLE!" Jane called out dashing over, and quickly picking Isabelle up from where she lay on top of the crib. "You're going to hurt yourself like that! Now I know you got to sleep in a big girl bed at Lola's," Jane explained as she lifted Isabelle up, kissing her stomach bad giving her diaper a quick sniff. 'After breakfast,' Jane told herself, as she hiked Isabell on to her hip, and proceeded to carry her toward the stairs.

"Now I know you slept in a big girl bed at Lola's all weekend," Jane started explaining, as she descended the stairs. "And we can convert your crib into a little bed for you if you want. But I also know that you snuck into Lola's bed every night," Jane said playfully, as they rounded the hall into the kitchen. "And big girls who are ready for beds stay in their own bed all night. So, if you can promise to stay in your bed, we can change your crib.'

Isabelle would promise no such thing, and so stayed silent. 'Waking up in Lola's bed is the best.' Isabelle thought to herself, as her mom plopped her onto her soggy diaper, into a similar, but less comfortable highchair than she had at Lola's house. 'This one has no padding on it!' Isabelle wanted to complain, but thought better of it. 

"No? Not ready?" Jane asked mockingly, as she laughed and started to make Isabelle a bowl of cereal. "Okkkkayyyy sweetie. That means you're staying in your crib. Right. Where. Mommy. Can. Keep. You." Jane said, before booping Isabelle on the nose. Isabelle couldn't contain her giggles.

Isabelle didn't exactly want to stay in the crib either though. It wasn't that the mattress of the crib had been uncomfortable. 'In fact, the mattress was kind of amazing.' But it was more important thought her legs over the side of the crib, her tiny feet touching the cool floor beneath her. It was more that it was a crib. 'Cribs are  for...'

But Isabelle thought better of finishing her thought. 'Why? Why fight it?' Isabelle wondered instead. 'When every change happened to me, I fought it. And where did that get me? Nowhere.' Isabelle dipped her spoon into her cereal, scooping the first few bites into her mouth.

'I fought going down to tenth grade when I had to do my showcase. I fought going down to middle school. I fought it the whole way,' Isabelle thought, as milk dripped down from her face and on to her sleeping gown. 

'Then I fought my whole may through fifth grade too. I ended up wetting my pants in the school cafeteria. That wasn't helpful. And it was because I fought it. Fought everything.' Isabelle felt her stomach gargle a bit as she continued to chow on her cereal, as much of it getting in her tummy as on it. 

'Then I had to go to second grade. And that was just awful. There was no Lola. No Dani. No Mel. No anyone. And the accidents didn't even stop.' Isabelle clutched her spoon as she let her arms rest on her tray, lifting her butt off of the seat so it was hovering in the air. 

'None of my theories worked either. Not the ones in high school. Not the ones in middle school. Not the ones in elementary school." Isabelle squeezed her spoon tighter, both understanding and not caring as to what was happening, as she pushed a huge load of poop into her diaper, smiling as the relief in her tiny tummy  spread to all corners of her. 

'And it wasn't until preschool, and until this weekend, that things started to improve.' Isabelle thought as she settled back down into her mess, feeling as the warm contents of her diaper spread in every which direction; up her backside, through the bottom and toward the front of her, and everywhere in between. 

'In fact, it wasn't until after I threw my tantrum at Lola about the highchair, about the diapers, that things started getting resolved. It was only after....' Isabelle shifted some more, finding that, rather than bothering her, her messy diaper was actually quite comfortable. '.....after I simply accepted Lola's decisions, started letting all of this happening to me, that things got better. And they got WAY better.' 

Isabelle couldn't help but accept the truth of it. 'Now I am in possession of the star rod. Dani is going to bring me her magician or whatever. And it's all because I just let it go. Let it be. And the truth is.....' Isabelle scooped the rest of her cereal into her mouth, picking some of the marshmallows that had fallen off of her shirt. 

'.....truth is I'm happy. The truth is I really......really loved being Lola's little siter. Really love being mommy's little girl. Really love.......being me.' 

It was a hard reality to accept. And it didn't necessarily mean she was going to stop working to get back. 'But it also doesn't mean this has to be bad, especially when it's so good.' Isabelle thought, as she shifted around more in her dirty diaper with a smile.

'So stop fighting it,' Isabelle told herself. 'Stop fighting the crib. Stop fighting the car seat. Stop fighting it all, and just let it happen. And it'll all get better. It will. It will all be better,' Isabelle thought, smiling more and more. 

Isabelle sighed a deep breath of relief, as her mom's words replayed in her head once more. "\'As you grow up - and yes, you're still growing up - things are going to happen to you. Things are going to happen around you. Things you cannot explain. Things you don't always understand, or that don't make sense. And you won't be able to control it all. And that is really hard to accept.'

'But the truth is sweetie,' the replay continued, 'what you're going to have to learn to do, what a grown up learns to do, is that you need to accept the things that are happening, let them happen, all of it. And once you do, you can learn how to deal with those things.' 

'Why hadn't I just listened to her earlier?'

"All done sweetie?" Jane asked, snapping Isabelle out of her deep thoughts. "Seems like it! And..." Jane continued, before dramatically sniffing in the air. "...I think you're all done doing a big deposit for mommy, aren't you sweetie?" 

Isabelle giggled. She giggled because she knew it was true. She giggled and nodded, smiling, because she knew her mommy would clean and change her. She smiled because it was all better.

***********

 Isabelle sat happily in her stroller as her mom wheeled her down a hallway that had become all too familiar to her; she was off to preschool. Better yet, they had met Jess and Becky at the door, and so while their moms chatted, Isabelle got to hold Becky's hand as she walked alongside the stroller and eavesdrop. 

"..........pullups all weekend........................not once."

"That's amazing!..................................long way away..........big stinky for mommy"

"Oh not missing that................maybe she can..............."

".....oooh that would be nice.............show her how...................good example........."

"..............Friday?.......................Again. It was fun last time........"

"Uhh...yah. I think that works..................................sitter?" 

"I'll take care of it............................."

'Becky!" Jane now called out louder. "I am so proud of you. Your mommy just told me how you didn't have ANY accidents all weekend. What a big girl you are! You'll be in big girl panties before we know it!" 

"Uh-huh!" was all Becky responded.

As week ago, Isabelle would have been irritated, both by the news and her mom's intonation. But today? "Yay Becky!" Isabelle said, as she clapped her hands. Jane bent down with a smile, proud that her daughter was being supportive, and unbuckled the harness to the stroller.

"Have fun you two!" Jess called, as Isabelle and Becky skipped into class together, each of their dresses bouncing as they did. "They are just too damn cute sometimes." Jess added, as she watched Jane fold up the stroller. "But we're stopping for coffee before you go to work. I want to hear all about Sam folding you up this weekend." Jess said, as she started walking back down the hall.

"That doesn't even make sense!" Jane called after her. But Jane was smiling nonetheless, the memory of having been "folded" up more times than she could count too fresh, and too damn good.

*****************

It was the best day Isabelle had had at preschool since she started there. Isabelle finally felt like she could be her complete self.  There was nothing to worry about. 'It's all just so......just so.......perfect.' Isabelle thought, as Miss Deena went through morning story time. The particular story of the morning dealt with numbers and counting. Though the students were encouraged to count along, Isabelle found herself completely lost, unable to do so.

Something else stood out that day as well. Isabelle watched as Miss Samantha and Miss Kelly moved around the class, helping students by taking them to the bathroom. It was a relief Isabelle found, when they passed right by her, even as they helped Becky who had signaled Miss Kelly over to help her.

In fact, Isabelle found that without the constant need to focus on going to the potty and to make it on time, her mind was free to focus on other matters. No longer would her studies, her experiments, her theories be disturb. Instead, she was left entirely undisturbed, free to do as she pleased. 'It's just wonderful,' Isabelle thought, as she released her bladder freely and without a care for the second, 'or maybe third?' time that morning. Her diaper drooped merrily into her leggings, as Isabelle went from activity to activity, free as a bird. 

It was only at lunch time that Isabelle was finally interrupted, even if briefly. "Okay there sogster," Miss Kelly said as Isabelle took another bite of her Linguini-O's. "Let's get you into a fresh diaper." 

There had been no chastising. No negative remarks to make her feel badly. No indication that Isabelle had done anything wrong. Anything other than what she was supposed to, as Miss Kelly lifted her up, pressing her warm, soaked diaper comfortable against her. skin. 

Isabelle didn't object as Miss Kelly laid her down on the changing table, even releasing a yawn she had built yup. Isabelle didn't object as Miss Kelly slipped a pacifier into Isabelle's mouth, or when she hummed a lullaby as she changed her. Isabelle let it all happen; the wipes, cold as they were, the lotion, smooth as it was, the powder, its scent unparalleled as it was, before she was quickly taped up and returned to her lunch table with Becky, Miss Kelly picking up Julia to repeat the process.

Isabelle smiled as she walked back toward her lunch table and passed by the potty chart. Isabelle's eyes were immediately drawn to the middle section, where she spotted Becky's name. 'She graduated!' Isabelle thought to herself. Soon enough, Becky's name would be firmly in the section at the left for "Big Boys" and Big Girls." Normally, Isabelle knew that was reserved for kids in big boy or girl panties. 'Becky must be close."

And then there was her name, Isabelle recognized. It was listed right next to Julia's on the right side, in the section  titled "Learning the Ropes!" Isabelle smiled because it was perfect for her. She held no ill will toward Becky - Isabelle was in fact, still learning the ropes, if you could even call it that. Isabelle shifted her legs, feeling the sweet, sweet comfort of her fresh diaper. 'I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.'

After lunch ended, Isabelle was happy for her nap time. She was exhausted from the morning, and was feeling sleepier than usual. 'More to do this afternoon,' Isabelle thought, as she laid her head down to rest. 

The afternoon passed faster than Isabelle realized. After waking up wet, Isabelle Becky, and Julia gathered around a pile of wooden blocks with divots for rails along the sides for free play time. 'Let's build a train track!" Becky suggested, as Isabelle and Julia clapped, nodding in agreement. Isabelle plopped onto her wet butt, picking up a few blocks to inspect them.  'The mission was clear: to create the most magnificent train track ever seen.'

Isabelle, her golden curls bouncing as she moved, set the first wooden block down. "This can be the train station!" Isabelle called out, her friends nodding in agreement.

Julia grinned mischievously at her friends and said, "Let's build the track to go through the mountains! These are the mountains! Over here!" Julia called out, pointing toward the reading nook which currently had a disinterested occupant in it. Isabelle thought it was a fantastic idea. 

Becky also nodded enthusiastically. "And we can make a bridge over the river!" Becky called out, as she laid down one of the blue nap mats on the floor between the station and the mountains.

Isabelle, not to be left out of creating an obstacle, added one more in with a soft smile, "Don't forget the tunnels through the forest. These will be the trees!" Isabelle explained, setting up some large plastic trees that were part of the house set along the way.

And so, with creativity filling their minds, and not to mention laughter filling the room, the toddling trio began arranging the wooden blocks on the floor, from the station, and along their route. Isabelle laid down a straight piece to start off of the station, figuring a smooth ride to start would be helpful. But her excitement grew, and became infectious as she moved on to curved and twisty pieces, before the tracks ran close to the river. 

Becky took over at that point, carefully placing several elevated bridge segments. The girls watched as Becky built the bridge strong and sturdy. To Isabelle, it wasn't just a napping mat that lay before her. No, it was clear as day that a sparkling river was flowing through the class, and Becky's bridge had overcome it. 

"First obstacle down!" Becky called out, as the three girls embraced for a hug. It was Isabelle's turn now, as she took several large, curving pieces, and wound them through their trees. No - not the plastic trees that had once been there. Those were long gone, Isabelle realized, as she ducked her head under a branch only she could see. In their place were the most majestic California Redwoods, rising high, through the very ceiling of the class, and climbing way up to the sky.

 Julia took over from there, but it was no easy feet. Isabelle could see it - a narrow, steep, and winding path up the mountainside. "Careful Julia!" Isabelle called, as Julia navigated the treacherous rocks and cliffsides, building her mountain pass up, and then around the mountain, so there would be safe return for the passengers. 

As they worked together, the track evolved into a mesmerizing landscape of winding paths, bridges, and tunnels. The girls' cooperation was a symphony of laughter and shared ideas, each block fitting into place like a puzzle piece.

"Look!" Isabelle exclaimed, as Julia laid the last piece connecting the railroad back to the station. "Our trains are ready to explore!"

Becky and Julia cheered, and each of the girls picked up their train, starting it at the station. First, Becky went, pushing her train along the tracks. Isabelle went next, following Becky's lead around the first few bends, toward the river. Isabelle could hear as Julia started after her, right on her tail.

"Choo-choo!" Isabelle called out, making train sounds as she pushed the engine forward. The girls giggled as they watched their trains navigate the twists and turns of their carefully crafted track.

Becky's eyes lit up as she turned and announced, "Time to climb the mountain!" Becky went first, and Isabelle watched as she climbed, climbed, and climbed into the mountain pass. 

'I'm next,' Isabelle thought, as she crawled forward on her hands and knees, pushing her train upward with all her might. Isabelle pushed and pushed, braving the cold winds and blustering snow of the mountain pass. She pushed and pushed some more, fighting through snow drifts and narrow cliffsides. She pushed again, around steep cliffs and icy terrain. Until finally, as she approached the end, Isabelle pushed one last time.

Except Isabelle's train had stopped. Isabelle wasn't pushing her train any longer. Instead, Isabelle was pushing something else. Something large. Something stinky. And Isabelle was pushing it all into her diaper. 

Isabelle pushed and pushed, unconcerned about her conduct as she filled her diaper until it would expand no more. Isabelle pushed and pushed some more, her poop spreading outward and forward with nowhere else to go. Isabelle pushed again, emptying the contents of her bowels into every inch of her overloaded diaper. Until finally, she approached the end, and there was nothing left to push out. Even then Isabelle pushed one last time.

"Beep Beep Isabelle!" Isabelle turned to see it was Julia, who had caught up to her on the mountainside, seemingly oblivious as to what Isabelle had just done. 

"Sorry Julia!" Isabelle called back, as she re-ignited her engines, and crawled forward, easing her train over and through the mountain pass, before taking it back to the station. 

Playtime continued, and the girls ran their trains through their track over and over again. As they did, the girls took turns being the train conductor - the designated title for the lead train, Julia going next, and Isabelle going third. It wasn't until the fifth run around the tracks that Becky took a spot behind Isabelle, and caught wind of what her friend had done.

"Miss Samantha! Miss Samantha!" Becky called out, as the teacher passed by. "Isabelle made a poopy."

Isabelle hadn't even noticed what Becky had done, having bene too distracted when her train broke down in the forest past the bridge. Isabelle was started when Miss Samantha scooped her up and patted her butt. "Oh Isabelle. This diaper is going to explode its so full!" Miss Samantha stifled a laugh. "I'll bring your conductor right back after she gets a much needed diaper change. I think this diaper has enough in it to fuel all your trains right now."

Isabelle giggled as Miss Samantha carried her to the changing table. 

***************************

"And then we had lunch mommy. And then I hadda nap. And then we played trains! It was the best. I made the station. And the Forest. And Becky made the river and the bridge. And Julia. Julia. Julia....Julia made the mountain mommy. And then we all made the tracks. It was the bestest."

Jane smiled as she finished latherin Isabelle's body with baby soap, flipping her over on to her stomach in the tub so Jane could wash between the girl's butt cheeks. "I'm so happy you had a fun day sweetie," Jane smiled at her daughter, as she took a wash cloth with her free hand and started cleaning off the soap. 

"Yah!" Isabelle called out, as Jane started to drain the tub, her daughter now clean, head to toe. 'At least until her next accident,' Jane joked to herself. Jane was really impressed with how well Lola had done with Isabelle, but it was clear that bath time had been skipped over the weekend. 

Isabelle allowed her mom to wrap her up in her towel, before setting her down on the closed toilet seat to brush Isabelle's hair. "It was mommy. But I miss Lola. Can we see Lola and Sam tomorrow?" 

Jane smiled. She was happy Isabelle had enjoyed her time with Lola so much. "I don't know sweetie. Lola has school tomorrow. But we're going to have dinner with her on Wednesday again.' 

Isabelle winced, her mom catching a knot in Isabelle's long hair. 

"Sorry sweetie. Sorry. But yes, you'll see Lola on Wednesday. That's pretty good, isn't it?'

'It'll have to do, Isabelle thought,' disappointed. "Otay mo.....moh.......mommmy," Isabelle said through a yawn. "I'm sweepy." 

Jane watched as Isabelle's eyes practically rolled back into her head. "Okay hunny," Jane said, finishing her brushing job. "Let's get you into a diaper and into bed," Jane said, picking Isabelle up.

Isabelle let her head rest on her mom's shoulders, nodding and smiling. Soon, she would be in bed, comfy, cozy, and wonderful. Isabelle simply needed to just let it all happen.

[BabySofia]

1 hour ago, Olympiczero said:

Soon, she would be in bed, comfy, cozy, and wonderful. Isabelle simply needed to just let it all happen.

Not sure that's the best option for her, but maybe Wednesday Lola will have some ideas! No ballet shoes on, so I have a feeling we'll see this little toddler Belly for a while longer! Another great chapter! 🙂

[Olympiczero]

14 hours ago, BabySofia said:

Not sure that's the best option for her, but maybe Wednesday Lola will have some ideas! No ballet shoes on, so I have a feeling we'll see this little toddler Belly for a while longer! Another great chapter! 🙂

Not the best idea? What could be better than getting all comfy and cozy in bed! Nothing bad can happen there! 

[Olympiczero]

The Ballet Slippers - Chapter 55

Tuesday passed much the same as Monday did. That is too say, it was yet another excellent day. 

Isabelle went through her new normal morning routine. Not wanting to upset her mother, Isabelle laid patiently in her crib that morning until Jane arrived, greeting her mommy with a smile and a very soggy diaper. Following a diaper change, breakfast, and another diaper change, Isabelle was back off toward preschool for another day of fun and games. 

Much like the day prior, the lesson plan of the morning went right over Isabelle's head. Instead, Isabelle simply sat on her diapered butt, starring at Miss Deena as she went through explaining something or another about shapes. 'It doesn't seem all that important,' Isabelle figured, as she playfully bent her toes back and forth in her ballet slippers. 'If it were, it would be easier to pay attention!' Isabelle's logic was flawless, at least if you asked her. 

There was simply no need to strain herself any longer, Isabelle figured. Not only was a solution in place to get her back to where she once was, but she was actually having fun. 'Today I'll see Dani,' Isabelle reminded herself, 'and tomorrow, I get to see Lola.' Then it would be Dani again, and no doubt she would be able to see Lola again this weekend. Maybe she would even get to see her other friends too.

It wasn't just that these new things were going well. Isabelle was starting to find joys in many of the changes that had occurred in her life that she hadn't previously appreciated. Sure, Isabelle had always recognized how soft and comfortable her diapers were when she had been changed into one. 'But there even better in a way,' Isabelle admitted to herself, suddenly feeling no shame about it, 'when they are wet.' Isabelle smiled as she let her bladder go, feeling the warm embrace of her urine surround her, before being absorbed into the now squishy diaper underneath her.

'And even better when they're poopy.' A month ago, heck even a week ago, Isabelle couldn't imagine admitting something that was so, so true, let alone doing so without feeling like a failure. But as she sat on her wet diaper in class, a warm reverberation, originating in her slippers, consuming her body from her head to toe. 'This is right,' Isabelle knew, as the feeling overtook her. 'It's right. And great.' Isabelle was, without shame, looking forward to her next poopy accident, if she could even call it that anymore.

There were other benefits though, ones she had overlooked. Her stroller and car seat were starting to make Isabelle feel more like royalty and less like a baby. 'I have to admit, being chauffeured around isn't so bad.' Walking had become exhausting, for reasons Isabelle couldn't quite explain. But in the peace and comfort of her stroller and car seat, Isabelle found she could enjoy the company around her, the conversations taking place, and the sights around her without hassle.

There was more. Nap time was unbelievable, allowing Isabelle to enjoy each moment she was awake more fully. Her highchair provided her stability while she ate, no longer worried her newfound imbalance would cause her to fall down and injure herself. School was....'It's not even learning. It's just pure fun!' Isabelle thought to herself.

The best part, however, was that no matter where she went, Isabelle seemed to be the center of attention. Isabelle was surprised at how much she liked being pointed at, starred at, told how adorable she was, and generally dotted over. 'As a teenager you sort of hate all of that......but I think it's just because you forget how wonderful it really is.' Isabelle couldn't believe how much of her life she was enjoying. 'No. Loving.'

Isabelle couldn't be sure about it, but part of her was starting to believe that the people around her were much happier as well. Dani, who was always a bundle of joy, seemed to be in even better spirits. Isabelle wasn't sure that Isabelle could take the credit for it, but one thing was clear; Dani was happier.

Isabelle couldn't help but notice that Dani was frequently peeking at her phone all weekened, giggling and texting. 'No doubt looking at photos of me!' Isabelle had concluded. Isabelle was even shocked when she saw Dani pull out a poetry book by the pool on Sunday, 'probably practicing to recite bedtime poems for me!' Isabelle had inspired Dani - there was no other explanation.

But it was more. Lola seemed different around Isabelle now. 'Sure, we've always been best friends. But this is more.' It was clear as day to anyone who saw Isabelle and Lola together that Lola's love for Isabelle was so much more. It was the type of love where you knew, just knew, Lola would do anything for Isabelle's happiness, for her safety, for even just a little more joy. 'And I feel the same way,' Isabelle thought to herself, her whole body lighting up at the mere thought of her friend. 'It's..........' It was a feeling Isabelle had only felt for one person in her life before; her mommy. 

'Mommy......' Isabelle's mind detoured from her friends and settling on the most important person in her life. "Mommy is........' There were no words for it. Isabelle couldn't recall ever knowing Jane to be so happy. There was a life and energy to her mom that Isabelle had never once seen. 'Sure, I am a huge part of it,' Isabelle thought to herself, as she shifted to her stomach in order to press her weight against her soggy diaper better. "She loves me." Isabelle knew it. 

Part of Isabelle had known that her mom was not ready to say goodbye to her yet. It was going to be a difficult senior year in so many ways. It was ALWAYS Isabelle and Jane together. Isabelle had never asked much about her biological father. 'There isn't much to tell,' her mom would explain. 'He was a kind man. A nice man. A man I once cared for deeply But a man who didn't want a family. And I did. I wouldn't trade you for the world.'

It was the same explanation every time. Though Isabelle knew that her mom meant it, there was always an undertone of sadness when her mom told the story. Something lingered, like she always wished that Isabelle's biological father had wanted something different. Isabelle couldn't help but feel sad about it too. Her mom was great, the best even. 'But it doesn't make me not feel unwanted.' Isabelle had always been jealous of those of her friends with two parents growing up. 'With a dad....' 

Jane had been so young when she got pregnant. Jane was still completing her undergraduate degree, in fact. 'But I suppose that was when she was pregnant with me...well the first time I guess?.....' Isabelle's mind wandered to another topic, one she hadn't considered -'Mom must think she was pregnant with me only a few years ago.....' It was a strange thought. Isabelle tried her very best to recall what were once vivid memories of celebrating her mom's thirtieth birthday, her mom always being the youngest one at birthday parties, or volunteering at the school. But those memories were long gone. 

Still, even as Isabelle felt her inflated padding resting against her bum, she could recognize that it was going to be a hard year for her mom. Jane was going to be all alone. Sure, she had some friends around town. But Isabelle had been so central to her life for so long, it was as if part of Jane had forgotten to live her own life as well. Yet, here Jane was, with a second chance to do so. "A second chance to do so WITH me,' Isabelle corrected herself. And Jane was thriving at it. 

Isabelle saw it in Jane each morning when she came to wake Isabelle up. She say it with the love her mom displayed in her eyes as she starred down at Isabelle on her changing table. Isabelle say in it every outfit Jane put on her. Isabelle saw in the way she watched Isabelle proudly as she danced, or played, or did anything at all.

But Isabelle also saw it in the way her mom laughed and smiled around Sam. Isabelle saw the joy and sparkly in her mom's eyes when she kissed Sam. Isabelle saw the way her mom's body melted as Jane laid her head on Sam's chest, the way her heart skipped a beat when they held hands. Isabelle saw the love and pride that Jane had for Lola as well. Isabelle saw it all. It was clear as day. 

'Is everyone better off now that I am little again?' The question echoed in Isabelle's head. She couldn't deny it - it was distinctly possible they were. 'Am........Am I better off though?' The answer to that question was much more complicated, Isabelle knew. It was not a question Isabelle was ready to answer. Part of her hoped, in fact, that she would never need to. 

But part of her did wanted to answer the question. Part of her wanted to know what the answer was. 

Isabelle strained her mind as she continued to work through the complex and difficult thoughts. As if on cue, Isabelle pushed a huge, mushy load of poop into her diaper, lifting her butt into the air as she did so. "Hmmmhmmm" Isabelle moaned softly, as she loaded her diaper up, which was now sagging into her denim shortalls. Isabelle knew it was only a matter of time before someone would change her, so quickly shifted back onto her bum, so as to enjoy her messy diaper as long as she could. 

'And what is going to happen when I do set things right?' Isabelle asked herself, as she bounced her butt up and down, squelching her poop in every direction as she did. 'Will mommy still be dating Sam? Will Lola still love me the same way?' It was distinctly possible that if she did correct everything, all of the good would be undone as well. 

'That's if I correct EVERYTHING,' Isabelle considered, as she was snapped back toward reality, her body being lifted into the air.

"Come with me cutie. You've got something not so cute in your diaper," Kelly said playfully, as she started carrying Isabelle over toward the changing table. 

Isabelle wasn't ready to be changed though, and Kelly had rudely interrupted her thought. So as Kelly laid her down, Isabelle let her displeasure be known. "Nooooooooooo! Nooooo NO eerhhhnnmahhghhhghnnmnm!" Isabelle whined.

Kelly didn't sense displeasure, however. She merely sensed a cranky toddler. "Oh shush. You'll go back in a minute you little stinker," before silencing Isabelle by pushing a pacifier into her mouth. "Now, let's see what you've made for Miss Kelly today," Kelly said, as she started unsnapping the buttons on the crotch of Isabelle's shortalls. 

Isabelle accepted the gift with an open, and then shut mouth, and soon found herself too enamored by the sucking the pacifier in and out to even recall what she had been annoyed about. 'Oh yah!' Isabelle thought, 'she interrupted my thinking!' 

Isabelle had, unfortunately, consider the possibility that even with the Star Rod, and the magic caster, that they couldn't undo all of the spell. 'Sure, if they got me back to 10th grade even, I could manage with that. It would only be losing two years.' But what if Isabelle was too far gone. 'What if she can only get me back to middle school with Mel. Or younger....What if,' Isabelle started to suck her pacifier a little more rapidly, as Kelly had to open a second, fresh pack of wipes to finish cleaning the disastrous mess on Isabelle's backside. 

'.....What if it only gets me back to second grade.........what if I get stuck there?' Isabelle had to consider the possibility. She could lose everything, and gain nothing. 'I won't get back. I won't have Dani, or Lola, or Mel even. I won't have anyone.' Isabelle sucked more rapidly, as Kelly started to coo her in an effort to calm Isabelle down. 

'Would any of that be better than what I have now? Would anything except going back to where I belong be better than all of the things I have that are so right, right here, right now?' Isabelle wasn't surprised that even this conversation was leading her back to the very question she didn't want to answer: 'Would going back even be better than having what I have now? Better for me? Better for everyone else?" 

For the first time since she embarked on her journey to restore herself, Isabelle was starting to doubt whether it was what she should do. 'Or what I want to do...' Isabelle felt a tear drop from her eye and flow down her cheek, just as Kelly finished taping her up in a clean diaper. 

'Oh sweetie. You don't need to be sad. Come here sweetie. It was just a little poopy, you're okay," Kelly said, figuring Isabelle had been uncomfortable in her diaper. Kelly picked Isabelle up and lightly bounced her. "Why don't you keep that for the rest of morning lessons sweetie," Kelly offered, referring to Isabelle's pacifier. "You can sit with me. We'll learn together."

Isabelle felt herself nod her head against Kelly's cheek, as the student-teacher sat down on the center carpet, sitting Isabelle down on her lap. Isabelle curled up into Kelly's arm, who was lightly patting her diaper. Isabelle had exhausted her mind that morning, and she already felt like she needed a rest. So Isabelle did, letting her emotions flow out of her, as she cried and rested in Kelly's embrace. 

***********************

Isabelle leaned over, resting her arms against her thighs. 'What the......' Isabelle worked to catch her breath, '....the heck....the heck are they putting us through today.' Isabelle could feel every fiber of her body aching. 

Ballet class today was no ordinary class. Sure, Isabelle and her little friends were all having fun. 'But I don't remember ever sweating like this before. Not in my life.' Isabelle picked her head up and turned it to its side, spotting her mom waving on the side. Most of the parents had big smiles on their faces, and many were high-fiving and giving thumbs-ups to the teachers, rather than their kids.

'What are they so happy about?' Isabelle wondered, picking herself up and moving into the next formation. 'We're all going to be exhausted! We won't have any energy to play with them when we get home?!' Isabelle was confused - didn't their mommies and daddies want to play later?

The excitement that had filled the air when Isabelle entered was still there. Even though Dani and Erica were working them through extremely active and challenging moves, the students were still as eager as ever. Isabelle turned to see Becky, who seemed to be faring slightly better on the sweat front, even if she struggled with the dance moves. Becky's smile was infectious, as she bounced toward Erica, trying to work on her jetes, without any success.

To her other side, Isabelle spotted Julia, who was not faring much better. In fact, Julia appeared to have given up all together, and was laying on the studio floor. Isabelle watched as Dani walked over and playfully pretended to shock Julia back up. Julia's giggles filled the room as Dani's method's succeeded, but Isabelle could have sworn that Julia's diaper was more prominently bulging out the back of her tights as she stood up. 

Isabelle stretched her neck out, moving her head in circles. As she did, she paused to look at her ballet outfit. Jess had been responsible for pick up today from school. The ride had no been as comfortable as normal. While Becky had rode in her normal booster seat, Isabelle had been placed into Eric's car seat. Isabelle was shocked that she even fit in it, but even then, it was too small for her. "Its just a short trip sweetie," Jess had explained, as she struggled to buckle Isabelle in herself, but succeeding at the end.

Jess had done an okay job dressing her, 'but never as good as mommy does,' Isabelle thought. Her ballet outfit was simple and cute that day. She wore a pale pink leotard adorned with shimmering sequins. The leotard hugged her tiny frame, the fabric soft against her skin. Isabelle loved how the sequins caught the bright light of the ballet studio, like dewdrops on a perfectly pink rose petal. 

Isabelle's ballet skirt, a delicate tulle creation, added a touch of whimsy as it floated gracefully with every step. After seeing the state of Julia's diaper, Isabelle wondered how her own was faring, and if her skirt was even covering it any longer. 'Not that it matters,' Isabelle thought, as she executed a perfect jete herself toward the rest of the group, catching a nod of approval from Dani as she completed it.

Isabelle's perfect, tiny ballet slippers, matching her blush rose leotard, encased Isabelle's tiny feet. 'There's just something so magical about having them on,' Isabelle thought. Though her body ached and sweat seemingly everywhere, her feet continued to feel perfectly comfortable as she wiggled her toes in the soft fabric. 

Isabelle's hair had, unfortunately, come undone when she was warming up. Jess simply wasn't as good at tying a tight bun, Isabelle was glad that her mom had arrived by that time, going over to her for help tying it back up.

"Sorry Isabelle," Jess apologized, as she sipped her coffee next to Jane. "Your mommy is just better at these than I am!" It was an honest confession, Isabelle thought, form a woman that Isabelle knew to be rather competitive. Now Isabelle's hair rested perfectly, meticulously gathered into a tight bun, and secured with a satin ribbon that matched her leotard and slippers. A few strands of her golden hair had escaped the bun, framing her angelic face.

Isabelle sat down on the floor near her mom, Jess, and Kat, as Dani and Erica explained the next set of steps. But Isabelle found herself surprisingly unfocused, listening to her mom's conversation instead of the ballet lesson.

"........................I handle the accounting and payroll for a company. It's nice, and they're super understanding about being a single parent......" Isabelle felt guilty listening to her mom, but it was nice to hear that her boss was nice.

"...................going back to work.......Eric's been in daycare for the afternoons for a month now....................to kindergarten next year.........." 

"..............to work?"

"Fashion for years...................get back into it......................." Jess went on to explain some things Isabelle didn't understand about her past working life. "...............kids, right?" Jess laughed.

"What about you Kat?" Isabelle heard her mom ask.

".........................ballet store.................................all sorts of custom made things too. I love it." 

"Oh wow..................................should visit sometime."

"...............no children's things.......................it's typically higher end goods for professionals........................the kids at Higgins Academy. Consiering it for.............next year Jess?"

"Oh...........don't think so..................too much pressure for her..............." 

"I get it...........................Isabelle looks like she's primed for there though, if you don't mind me saying." 

"Okay," Erica called out, "up we go. Let's finish strong." Isabelle stood, though had no idea what she was supposed to do at that point. Fortunately Dani, who may have realized Isabelle had been distracted, offered some guidance. 

"Now, let's practice our pliés," Dani announced with a smile. Isabelle's eyes met Dani's, and she mirrored her movements with an adorable determination. Dani's encouragement made Isabelle's heart swell with pride.

"Beautiful, Isabelle!" Erica exclaimed, her voice gentle as a breeze. Isabelle beamed, her cheeks rosy with joy.

The class progressed with delicate leaps and graceful arm movements. Isabelle's little hands fluttered like butterfly wings, her ballet slippers tapping lightly against the studio floor. She twirled with a mixture of innocence and grace, her ballet skirt swirling around her like a dream, paying no mind to her diaper, as it sagged lower, and lower, each time Isabelle peed.

When it was time for a short routine, Dani and Erica took Isabelle's hand, guiding her through the steps. With every plié, tendu, and arabesque, Isabelle's smile grew wider. Dani's comforting presence and kind words made Isabelle feel as though she were dancing on a cloud.

Isabelle took a seat in her regular spot once more, as she watched Dani and Erica repeat the routine process with each of the other student. But again, she found her focus diverted toward the conversation going on behind her.

"..................an entire changing table. For a weekend. And it's nicer than mine Jess." Her mom was talking about soimething. 'But I can't be sure what.......'

".............committed.................it's sweet....................." Jess had replied

".......it was stocked Jess........with nicer stuff than I own too.........................a high chair. Looks like it was custom made or something.........look........" Jane said, pulling her phone out and showing something to her friends

"That was custom................." Isbaelle heard Kat chime in. ".......look at the detail here......unlikely for her............too fast.........."

".....................worried.................................too fast?" Isabelle heard a bit of worry in her mom's voice. And Isabelle didn't like it.

"Not at all..............................you're happy. Be happy...................she's happy too....................this is it. I know it............And look at it this way, moving will be........................." Jess replied.

"I don't think we're quite there yet.............................doesn't mean I don't want to be........................admitted this to anyone other than myself................................I'd say yes."

"Hell, by the sound of him, I would too." Isabelle heard Kat add, as all three moms laughed away. 

Isabelle turned to see Jess hugging her mom, who had a smile from ear to ear. So Isabelle smiled too, as she shifted forward and back, her squishy diaper making the moment even better.

As the class came to an end, the little ballerinas curtsied with a flourish, their faces beaming with pride. Isabelle, too, curtsied with her tiny hand on her heart, feeling as regal as a princess. 

"Okay everyone. On Thursday you're all going to be performing that short routine we just did by yourselves. And all your mommies and daddies are invited to come watch if they want. So make sure to practice at home," Dani explained. "And we'll see you all on Thursday!"

Dani walked through the class smiling at everyone, making sure to nod and acknowledge some parents, before bending down near Isabelle. "Great job out there my star," Dani said with a smile, pulling Isabelle in for a hug. "I can see how proud your mommy is of you over there!" Dani said, point behind Isabelle and waving at Jane. 

"Thanks Dani!" Isabelle had a ton of fun, but was feeling exhausted, and so fell onto her butt once more. "Dani," Isabelle asked anxiously, playing with her skirt as she did. "Do you true know a magic person who can help us cast a spell with the star rod?"

Dani smiled at the innocent question, sitting on the floor next to Isabelle in an effort to mimic the toddler's movements. Dani reached out, placing her hands on Isabelle's, temporarily halting her fidgeting, before answering. "I do Belly. In fact, it's not just any magic person I know." Dani was whispering now, and glanced from side to side as though to pretend no one else should listen in. She turned back to Isabelle, leaning in closer. "I know a magical FAIRY Belly. A very powerful one too. And guess what? She's going to be here this weekend to help us!" 

Isabelle's jaw nearly hit the floor, as she released yet another spurt of pee into her diaper. "a FAIRY?!?! Really?!? How?!? What!?!?!? OH MY GOSH!" Isabelle lacked any sort of discretion that Dani had shown, practically shouting the last bit.

"Yes sweetie," Dani said, before standing and helping Isabelle to her feet. "And I don't want you to worry about your Star Rod. I'm keeping it VERY safe for our fairy friend."

Just then, Isabelle heard her mom's voice over her shoulder. "Hey there sweetie. You did so well!" Jane said, before turning toward Dani. "I just wanted to thank you Dani. Lola told me how helpful you were all weekend. You really didn't need to do everything you did for her. I'm really grateful."

"Not a problem Jane! She was a pleasure, really. Nothing too much for my star pupil!" Dani explained with a smile, ruffling Isabelle's hair. "But I do need to get going now. And based on the status of her D-I-A-P-E-R during the last routine, you better get going too" 

Jane laughed as she waved goodbye to Dani, and picked Isabelle up. 'Damn. She was right," Jane thought 'Isabelle's diaper practically feels ready to burst.' 

"Let's get you home sweetie. It feels like I have an extra squishy diaper to change.

Isabelle hardly heard her mom's remark. Instead, her eyes were still sparkling as she looked at her mom, her heart bursting with the joy of the dance, and the excitement of meeting the first fairy of her life coming up. Isabelle clutched the satin ribbon that held her bun in place with a giggle. "I danced like a real ballerina, Mommy! Did you see?"

***************

The soft hues of twilight bounced off the walls of Isabelle's bedroom the room. Jane laid Isabelle down on her changing table, before making her way over to the window, drawing the curtain shut, but leaving the window slightly ajar. "It's a cool night. Pleasant sweetie." Jane's gentle voice filled the air as she lovingly prepared the room for bed, Isabelle exhausted from the day.

Isabelle's golden hair, curling in the cool breeze that blew in from her window, framed her sleepy eyes, and her yawns were like whispers of the day fading away. 'Let's get you into a fresh diaper sweetie."

With tender care, Jane began to change Isabelle into her night diaper. Isabelle's laughter filled the air as her ticklish little belly was met with gentle kisses, Jane smelling her daughter's babysoft skin, as she did. Jane went through a routine she knew all too well like it was a symphony, a coordination of each part of her body moving flawlessly as she wiped, lotioned, oiled, powdered, and taped Isabelle up.

"Now, let's get you into your cozy pajamas," Jane said with a smile, her voice a lullaby of reassurance. "hmmmmm let's go for these. It's been a while since you've worn your animal kingdom ones," Jane said, emerging with a set of white pajamas, littered with animals all over it. Isabelle's tiny fingers reached for the pajamas, a smile adorning her face. 

The pajamas were a soft - "so soft," Isabelle remarked. As Jane gently pulled the pajamas over Isabelle's arms, she peppered her daughter's cheeks with gentle kisses. Isabelle's giggles danced around the twilight in the room like fireflies, lighting up her, and Jane's hearts and eyes with joy. "Stop mommmmmmmy! Stoooooooooooooopppppp" Isabelle squealed. But Jane didn't stop, pushing Isabelle back down so she could pull her pajama pants over her thick, bulky diaper.

With the pajamas securely in place, Jane lifted Isabelle once more, carrying her like a precious treasure to her crib, laying her down on the mattress. Jane watched as Isabelle shut her eyes almost immediately, the sweet girl exhausted from her day. Jane tucked the blankets around Isabelle, her touch as gentle a whisper, careful not to stir Isabelle. But Isabelle stirred. 

Isabelle's eyes fluttered open, her grip on Rabbity tightening. "Mommy. Mommy.....can you tell me a story? About magic fairies?"

Jane brushed one of Isabelle's golden curls away from her face. "Of course sweetie." Jane didn't know any stories about fairies though. 'I wonder where this is coming from? I'll just make it up as I go...' 

So in a hushed voice, Jane started her tale "Once upon a time, in a world not so far away, there lived a magical fairy named Seraphina," Jane's voice flowed like a soothing melody. Isabelle's eyes shut once more, shifting around as her small frame settled in her cocoon of cozy blankets.

"Seraphina had wings that shimmered like a star," Jane continued, her fingers tracing imaginary patterns in the air. "They were the color of the sky at sunrise—soft pink and gentle lavender. She was a green fairy, who had long, curly red hair, and she was as pretty as they came." Jane wasn't sure what had inspired her description, but she needed to buy time to come up with a story.

Isabelle's fingers twiddled with the edge of her blanket, before her thumb made its way toward, and into her mouth. Jane reached down to remove it, gently tugging it out of Isabelle's pursed lips.

"Now, Seraphina's wings weren't just beautiful," Jane's voice carried a touch of intrigue, "they held a secret power. It was where she kept her magic stored Isabelle. And with her wings, Seraphina could do beautiful things. With a wave of her hand, she could make flowers bloom and rivers dance. She could make the sun sparkle, and the moon glow bright. And sometimes, when her magic was at its strongest, she could make wishes come true"

Isabelle's eyes widened, her gaze fixed on her mom. Isabelle could have sworn she could see Seraphina and her wondrous wings right there in the room, as she plopped her thumb back into her mouth.

"Every night," Jane continued, standing up and walking over to the changing table, "Seraphina would tiptoe through the meadows, leaving trails of fairy dust in her wake." Jane returned back toward Isabelle, this time not empty handed. Jane removed Isabelle's thumb again, but this time replacing it with a pacifier. Isabelle retreated her sucked-thumb hand back under the blanket, content to nurse on the pacifier instead. 

"And do you know what the fairy dust did?"

Isabelle's head shook softly up and down.

"But you see, this fairy dust was special. It was what allowed Seraphina to make wishes come true. Making wishes come true requires a lot of power, so Seraphina needed her wings, her fairy dust, and her magic wand to grant them" Jane whispered, her voice a murmur of secrets. "Wishes that people desired most. Wishes that could be granted, filling people's days and nights with adventures and magic."

Isabelle's eyelashes fluttered, her eyes growing heavier as Jane weaved an impressive impromptu story, before settling shut. Isabelle rhythmically nursed at her pacifier more slowly. 

"You see Isabelle, if anyone needed a wish to come true, all they needed to do was follow the stardust and find Seraphina." Isabelle yawned around her pacifier, as Jane reached down to ensure it held in place. 

"But Seraphina couldn't grant any wish Isabelle............could only grant a wish that was.............true desire." Isabelle felt sleep overtaking her. But the story....it was too good.

"One night," Jane's voice grew softer, "Seraphina met a little girl named Isabelle....................grant her one..........what she really desired..........come true."

Isabelle's lips curled into a sleepy smile, her fingers clutching Rabbity, her tongue curling around the pacifier.

"And so," Jane's voice was a soothing song at this point, "Seraphina.....................took her wand...............dust.....wings......"

Isabelle's eyes shut for good, the weight of the day's adventures and dance overtaking her, the soothing cadence of her mom's voice lulling her into a realm where reality and fantasy danced hand in hand.

"................Isabelle..........." Jane was no barely whispering, "Seraphina promised.....................................happiest Isabelle would ever be............."

Isabelle never heard how the story ended. Her breathing grew soft and even. Her body fell into a deep, restful state. Her mind was finally at ease, after a long day of deep, complex thoughts. She was free, free to rest and sleep.

Jane leaned down, placing a soft kiss on Isabelle's forehead. "Goodnight, my little ballerina," she whispered. 

[BabySofia]

42 minutes ago, Olympiczero said:

She was a green fairy, who had long, curly red hair, and she was as pretty as they came." Jane wasn't sure what had inspired her description, but she needed to buy time to come up with a story.

This is either a real explanation or something that Belly is sure to latch on this weekend when she's introduced to this fairy! I love all of the plot twists and the fact you let us see inside what's going on with her mom with those little snippets. Sounds very interested. Belly was wearing her ballet shoes though, so I won't be surprised if walking is soon to much for her!

[BabySofia]

1 hour ago, Olympiczero said:

"What about you Kat?" Isabelle heard her mom ask.

".........................ballet store.................................all sorts of custom made things too. I love it." 

Forgot about commenting on this too... Sounds like a reprise of an earlier character? She has a baby the same age? Connected?

[Olympiczero]

35 minutes ago, BabySofia said:

This is either a real explanation or something that Belly is sure to latch on this weekend when she's introduced to this fairy! I love all of the plot twists and the fact you let us see inside what's going on with her mom with those little snippets. Sounds very interested. Belly was wearing her ballet shoes though, so I won't be surprised if walking is soon to much for her!

Thanks so much! I wasn't sure if readers were going to glance through those parts or not, but there is a lot to learn from them, especially if you try (not much work) to fill in the blanks. It was fun developing Jane a little more. I tried to use those parts to sort of illustrate the child, in this case Isabelle's, perspective of parents talking in front of toddlers without watching much about what they say. 

 

3 minutes ago, BabySofia said:

Forgot about commenting on this too... Sounds like a reprise of an earlier character? She has a baby the same age? Connected?

Kat is indeed back! I thought maybe some readers would pick up on her appearance when I put a name to Julia's mom in an earlier chapter. Perhaps there will be something to learn about the shoes from it...I've been eagerly waiting for Kat's return for 55 chapters now LOL!

[keith60]

i hope there is more to this story soon

[Olympiczero]

Apologies for the delay - work has been insanely busy, and I have been managing some other matters as well that have prevented me from writing as much as I'd like. 

But you aren't interested in my excuses!  Without further ado!

The Ballet Slippers - Chapter 56

"Exploration has resumed, though not without its challenges." Investigator-astronaut Isabelle spoke clearly into her space journal log on her wrist, careful to pronounce each word as she spoke. Isabelle couldn't believe how lacking her captain's log had been of late. 'But it makes sense, with the limited travel and even more limited activity.'

"The high cosmic pressure zone has not only failed to break, but continues to increase in intensity," Isabelle explained. "My body continues to suffer from the known impacts, but unfortunately, we could not anticipate the full extent of it. Mobility has been an issue. I have found myself less balanced while moving about the ship, and coordination is becoming problematic. I am..." Isabelle paused as she released a large pee into her new diaper "...doing my best to push through the effects. But they are brutal."

Isabelle waddled forward along she shore, before jumping into the water in front of her, using her suit's bubble blaster to push her further down into the water. "In addition, we have exhausted our supply of investigator-astronaut diapers, causing some complications. Fortunately. Senior First Officer Rabbity has developed a new product, which I am compelled to beta test for the entire Rainbow Command, else abandon the mission." Isabelle lowered the power on her bubble blasters, slowing her descent. 

"The new product, which we have dubbed the 'Cushioned Rear Inflatable Bum' is a marvel of engineering. Not only is the Cushioned Read Inflatable Bum far, far more comfortable than the standard issued investigator astronaut diapers, but there are practical uses as well. Though substantially bulkier, the absorbency of the Cushioned Rear Inflatable Bum is roughly quadruple the standard issue investigator astronaut diapers, allowing for longer periods of time between changes. Though with the extended exposure to the cosmic pressure taking its toll, frequent changes are still needed." 

"The name could use some help," Isabelle added for her journal. "For now, we simply call it the "C.R.I.B." 

Isabelle smiled as she felt her soaked C.R.I.B around her waist, the squishy diaper providing not just safety and comfort, but pleasure. 'I'm not sure I've ever worn something so wonderful,' Isabelle thought, keeping that thought out of her journal and for herself. Such thoughts would be of little use to Rainbow Command. 

Isabelle sighed as she turned her bubble blasters off all together, swimming independently toward her destination. Though her mobility on the ship had become challenging, Isabelle noticed that she had become quite the talented swimmer. 'Not sure where I learned this stroke....but it's great!' Isabelle could hardly believe how well she was swimming through the planetary waters. It was as if she was a whole new diver! 

Isabelle's sparkling silver suit that glistened like stars as she ventured deeper toward the Clam Conjurer's lair. Her golden locks danced as she swam around vibrant coral reefs and schools luminescent fish. Even within her helmet on, the air was filled with the scent of salty ocean breeze, a ever present reminder of the planet's watery embrace. 'It's so peaceful here,' Isabelle remarked for herself. 

Guided by her determination - and the assistance of the local dolphins from the bar - Isabelle set out toward the Clam Conjurer—a mystical being said to possess the power to control Aquaria's elements. Isabelle's heart beat with a mixture of hope and wonder as she followed her instincts, the thrill of adventure propelling her forward. Well, that and her feet, which she had learned somewhere help to use with your swimming. 

Isabelle dipped into the dark, open crevasse in the sea floor the dolphins had told her about. It didn't seem like it went anywhere at first, but Isabelle continued through, spotting an opening on the far end of it. Isabelle was shocked as she emerged on the other side, which was no longer dark, but bright as day. Isabelle continued along the only path available to her, floating through sun-dappled seagrass and beneath coral archways. Finally, Isabelle's journey led her to a secluded grotto. 

Isabelle's mind was distracted by the faint music surrounding her as she slowly made her way into the grotto. Isabelle's eyes darted in every direction, catching glimpses of the singing mermaids that surrounded the peaceful grotto. Their tails shimmered as they moved gracefully behind the seaweed beds. "The music here is unlike anything I have heard before. The sweet melody of the mermaids almost puts you to sleep. We should return to explore this phenomenon another time. Perhaps it could serve a use on the ship to help put the crew to sleep," Isabelle articulated for the journal, before returning her eyes toward the middle of the grotto.

There, nestled within a bed of pearls, sat the Clam Conjurer. The clam's iridescent shell shimmered with a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors, its presence radiating with ancient wisdom. "Hello, brave investigator-astronaut Isabelle" the Clam Conjurer greeted in a voice as gentle as an ocean whisper. "I have been waiting for you."

"You know me?" Isabelle asked. 'What a foolish question - of course the conjurer knows you Isabelle!' Isabelle couldn't believe she had embarrassed herself so. Isabelle worked to re-compose herself, her eyes meeting the clam's, and she recounted her mission to quell the storm that hindered her exploration of Aquaria's depths.

The Clam Conjurer merely chuckled. "Of course I do brave explorer. And I know why you have come. Sadly I cannot help you. Yet. There is a price to pay, you see."

Isabelle's shoulders fell. 'Another test! Another barrier in my way!' What else would she have to do in order to get to her treasure. It was too much. 

The Clam Conjurer sensed Isabelle's defeat. "Do not fret young one. For my price is simple. You must only answer three riddles to gain the power you seek. Are you prepared to do so?"

Isabelle's head perked up. "Riddles? I can do Riddles!' Isabelle nodded. "I am, Clam Conjurer. I am prepared."

The Clam Conjurer bent its shell into a smile. "Very good. I sensed you were ready. Here you go, but I warn you, you have only one guess per riddle, else I cannot help you."

Isabelle nodded affirming her understanding. Isabelle clutched her hand into a fist, preparing her body and mind for what was to come. "Let's go!"

"Very well," the Clam Conjurer replied.

"Cozy swaddle, soft and warm,
In cribs I'm found. I'm often norm.
Babies love to cuddle and snuggle,
What am I, their comfort's double?"

'What is it.....' Isabelle wondered. 'Cozy......warm....and soft. I remember feeling like that....with Lola.' Isabelle thought to herself. 'Maybe the answer is bed?....but they are also found in cribs.....and the clam said babies like to cuddle them. You can't really cuddle a bed." Isabelle continued to ponder as she released her bladder once more into her C.R.I.B, the result expanding her legs fully apart. 'Of course!' 

"It's a blanky!" Isabelle called out. She knew she had to br right. 

"You are correct. But the next riddle will not be so easy!"

Isabelle gulped. 'The last one was already a challenge!'

But the Clam Conjurer continued, without hesitation.

"Soft and huggable, by day and by night,
In children's arms, I find delight.
With button eyes and a stitched-on smile,
I'm a friend through adventures, mile after mile.

What am I?"

'Soft.....huggable.......delight. Is it.....mommy?' Isabelle wondered. It seemed too easy. "Mommy is so huggable, and she is around day and night......but also......a friend. Mommy isn't a friend. Mommy is a mommy.....hmmm.' Isabelle felt a pressure building inside of her, one she couldn't quite identify. 'Maybe it's Dani. Dani is a friend! And also huggable!' Isabelle was pretty sure that was the answer, but then something held her back.

"Stitched smile? Button eyes.......I don't know. I don't know what it could be. Isabelle needed help. 'If only Rabbi-" 

But then it hit her

"RABBITY! My stuffie!" 

The Clam Conjurer considered Isabelle's answer. "Acceptable response. The answer is of course, a stuffed animal. Beware young one, I will not be so gracious with the last riddle. You must get it exactly right, or you shall leave empty handed."

Isabelle gulped, her stomach stirring louder from the nerves. 'Or whatever.' She couldn't be distracted by her tummy. She needed to focus. 

"Here you are," the Clam said. 

"In a bundle of fabric, I'm sometimes concealed,
My presence revealed, when a deed's unsealed.
Though not the most pleasant, I serve a purpose true,
A part of a baby's life, this shall be your clue.
Changing me is quite a task,
What am I, you must unmask?"

Isabelle stared at the Clam. She had nothing. She had absolutely nothing. 'Bundle of fabric? Deed unsealed? What task? What must I unmask?' Isabelle was growing increasingly nervous she wouldn't be able to solve it. Her stomach was twisting into knots. She was sweating in her suit. 'I can't let them all down. I can......can't.....' 

Isabelle closed her eyes. She balled up her hands into fists, straining for the answer. 'Focus Isabelle. Focus.' She couldn't let her crew down. 'You need to Focus.' Isabelle squeezed her hands tightly, her knees naturally lifting as she hovered in front of the Clam. She had to think. 'Think harder than I ever have before. I can't let myself down.' 

Isabelle's mind was racing. It felt like there was something holding her back. 'Something blocking my mind.' Her hands tightened once more, as her thighs slowly parted in her squatted position. 'I need to free my mind. I can feel it. Feel the answer coming!' Isabelle knew she just needed to uncork the block that was holding her back. 'Almost....there.' Isabelle inhaled deeply. 'I will not fail,' Isabelle commanded herself. 'I cannot fail!' Isabelle called out, pushing her hardest to break the blockage.

And with that, and with all of her might. Isabelle pushed. She pushed and pushed, her face turning bright red. She pushed more, the blockage starting to free. She pushed harder, the relief coming to her body, her mind. She pushed one last time, with all her might. And with her final push she freed herself. 

A sense of eternal bliss overcame Isabelle, as Isabelle loaded her C.R.I.B with wave after wave of mushy poop. With each wave, Isabelle felt grace, peace, and joy as her body and mind were seemingly freed from whatever it was that was holding them back. Isabelle continued to push more and more poop into her C.R.I.B, floating in extasy in the planet's sea, the songs of the mermaids filling her heart, her mind, her soul. A smile crept over her face, replacing the strain and stress that had been there just moments prior. 

And just as the last wave of poop entered her C.R.I.B., as Isabelle's mess had pressed against the C.R.I.B.'s capacity and had nowhere else to go, as her stinkies spread against her butt cheeks, and as Isabelle's legs spread apart further than she believed they could be, Isabelle lost control, lost track of what she was doing, of where she was, and inadvertently uttered an answer she had not intended.

"Poopieee.......diapeee......" Isabelle muttered, through a satisfied smile, catching her breath. 

But it was too late. And Isabelle knew she had screwed up.

Isabelle had offered the Clam Conjurer a response.  

"Correct, little one."

'Correct?' Isabelle wondered. 'What was correct? What were we even....'

But Isabelle was cut off again before she could finish her thought. The Clam Conjurer's shell opened slightly, revealing a luminous pearl. "Take this pearl," it said, "and present it to the heart of the storm. It will heed your plea and still the tempest."

Isabelle reached in and took the pearl as instructed, thanking the Clam Conjurer for its aid. But as she turned to leave, the Clam Conjurer left her with one parting remark,

 "I sense a storm of uncertainty in your heart as well, little one. When the time comes, you must learn to quell that storm on your own. You already have everything you need to do it."

Isabelle nodded, though she was not sure why, before turning on her bubble blasters and heading back to the ship. With the pearl held close, Isabelle's determination soared. She would return to the storm's heart, and end the blight on the planet once and for all.

*******************************

""Time to wake up, sweetheart," Jane cooed, her voice a gentle melody that roused Isabelle from her slumber. Isabelle's eyes blinked open, and for a moment, she looked at her mom with drowsy curiosity.

As Isabelle's haze of sleep slowly lifted, however, a telltale scent wafted through the air—the unmistakable fragrance that announced a stinky diaper was in the crib. Isabelle shifted on her back as she felt the mushy comfort spread underneath her. She couldn't help but smile, even the smell not bothering her in the slightest.

Jane stifled a chuckle, knowing that Isabelle's morning surprise awaited. "Did someone make a midnight messy for Mommy?" Jane asked with a playful grin, her tone one of shared amusement as she picked Isabelle up from the crib, and playfully sniffed her butt. "Whooooooooooooweeee. That is a stinky present!".

Isabelle's cheeks turned rosy, her tiny giggle a melodic response. She wriggled in her her mother's arms, her excitement for the day ahead undeniable. "Alright, my little explorer, let's see what we've got here." 

With practiced ease, Jane carefully laid Isabelle on to her changing table, and got to work on her daughter's diaper. "Looks like someone had a busy night," Jane teased, her voice a symphony of affection. 'It's been a long time since you left me an overnight poopy present sweetie," Jane said, as she worked to wipe Isabelle's bottom down with cold wipes. "I hope we're not going to make a habit of this again!"

Isabelle made no promises. She simply smiled. Smiled and smiled and smiled and smiled, as her mom cleaned her up, and soon she was in a clean, fresh diaper. "There we go. Smelling MUCH better now sweetie! Let's have a great day!" Jane professed, as she lifted Isabelle on to her hip and carried her downstairs. 

Indeed, it was a great day. After her delicious breakfast, Isabelle was off to preschool once more. Isabelle spent the morning in Miss Deena's class doing art, painting popsicle sticks and then using them to make a house on some construction paper. Isabelle didn't mind that her house kept tumbling; she was having too much fun to care. 

After a lengthy hand washing, Isabelle enjoyed her lunch with Julia and Becky, laughing and giggling as they shared stories and funny imaginative games. Becky and Julia were both fascinate as Isabell regaled them of tales from Aquaria, the first time she had shared her mystery planet with anyone in detail. "Maybe we can come visit one time!" Becky proclaimed. Isabelle nodded; her friends would always be invited on her journeys. 

After a nap - and more than a few more diaper changes - the class spent the afternoon shifting between stations like they had the week prior. Isabelle loved every second of her day, moving from block building, to letters and counting, to playing house with a few of her classmates, and then to reading with Miss Samantha, each activity was more fun than the last. 

Isabelle was halfway through a game of Sugarland - she had just passed through the gumdrop forest with a double purple card! - with Becky and Miss Samantha when she heard her mom's voice over her shoulder. "Belly! Mommy is here! Come, we need to go. We're going on a special trip!" 

Isabelle perked up and turned to see her mom, running over to her and welcoming her with a big hug. Whatever the surprise was, Isabelle couldn't wait. 

***************

Jane pushed Isabelle around the store in the shopping cart, Isabelle's eyes planted firmly on her mom. 'Its going to be the bestest surprise ever!' Isabelle knew it. Whatever it was going to be. Though in reality, Isabelle had no idea where they were off to. 

 "It's going to be perfect sweetie. I promise! You're going to love your surprise." Jane was confident she had a great idea, and knew Isabelle would have fun in the store. Isabelle didn't need more assurance - if her mom promised it would be fun, nothing else mattered. 

It took a moment, but Isabelle recognized where they were as her mom pushed her around the store; it was a Halloween costume store. Isabelle wasn't sure what they were going to pick up, but she was excited nonetheless. Isabelle's little fingers reached for every outfit that caught her eye—a pirate, a superhero, even a friendly ghost. There were wigs, hair dye, masks and wands. There were all sorts of amazing costumes Isabelle couldn't; keep her gaze fixed.

'It's fortunate really,' Jane thought, as she maneuvered around the store, 'how easily distracted she is sometimes.'. In fact, Jane took advantage of Isabelle's lack of focus, turning the cart so Isabelle was not only facing away from her, but was facing racks and racks of colorful costumes to distract her. Jane quickly identified a rack adorned with magnifying glasses and fake mustaches, taking one of each and placing them into her basket behind Isabelle. Jane then found a rack of trench coats, and even a vest, adding them to her pile.

Isabelle was content to simply move around the store with her mommy. She was feeling a little tired from her long day, and was happy to rest in the cart while she was pushed around. Isabelle felt her diaper warm up as she released her afternoon juice into the thirsty padding, smiling and simply allowing the events to unfold. But the store was starting to get repetitive, and Isabelle was ready to see her friend. "Mommy - are we going to see Lola and Sam soon?"

Jane felt as though she found everything she needed, locating a fake pipe which blew bubbles, and a set of gloves, laughing to herself as she envisioned Isabelle in the outfit she had collected. "Very soon sweetie." Jane was looking at a rack of silly hats to cap off the outfit when she saw it; Jane's eyes widened when she spotted a deerstalker hat perched atop a children's mannequin. The hat's distinct design with its two flaps turned up on the sides held a special allure.

Jane chuckled softly. 'It's perfect.' Jane slipped the hat off of the mannequin, dropping into her basket. "Yes sweetie. Just as soon as we are finished here. We're going to go over to Lola's for dinner tonight. Doesn't that sound fun?'

"YAY!" Isabelle called. It did, in fact, sound fun. 

With a smile of satisfaction, Jane had gathered the pieces for Isabelle's special costume. A magnifying glass to hold, ready for any close examination. A trench coat and vest to secure her small frame, exuding an air of mystery and intrigue. The mustache and bubble pipe adding a touch of whimsy. And of course, the crowning jewel—the deerstalker hat—was carefully placed into bags as Jane checked out.

**************************************

"Sorry we're late" Jane offered as an explanation, as she carried Isabelle on her hip into Sam's home. "I was at the store getting someone's costume for Halloween, and it took a little longer than I thought." Jane leaned in and kissed Sam on the lips while she continued to hold Isabelle. Isabelle smiled as she felt her mom's heartbeat go faster. 

"Not problem at all!" Sam responded. "Are you excited for Halloween Belly?" Sam asked, as he extended his arms out to take Isabelle from Jane.

"Yes!" Isabelle proclaimed aloud, as her mom handed her over to Sam. Isabelle wrapped her arms around Sam's next before mimicking her mom, and kissing Sam on the cheek. Isabelle then laid her head down on Sam's shoulder. 

"Oh lucky me I get a kiss tonight from two girls! And maybe a third girl will give me a kiss too!" Sam called up the stairs, clearly teasing his own daughter. Isabelle giggled as Lola called down in response. 

"Fat chance!"

"Thanks Sam. I'm going to take her up to give her a change though. She's soaked." Jane explained, as she finished hanging her windbreaker up and set her bag down. "I still can't believe you bought that outrageous thing," Jane chided, referring to the changing table. "Though it is coming in handy...." Jane admitted, as she extended her arms out just as Lola made her way down the stairs. 

"It is handy. And nonsense," Sam responded. "You hang out with Lola and I'll get her changed real quick," Sam said, as he turned to pass his daughter. 

"LOLA!" Isabelle called out, reaching for her as they passed.

Lola leaned it and kissed Isabelle on the cheek, before rubbing her nose to Isabelle's. "Really dad?" Lola responded, turning her attention to her dad. "You? Diapers? I never thought I'd see the day!" Lola teased, laughing as she moved toward Jane, the two embracing like old friends. 

"I will have you know," Sam began explaining, as he carried Isabelle up the stairs, "that I changed your POOPY butt more times than I can count Lola. Why don't you just worry about getting Jane a glass of wine instead?"

Sam's remarks succeeding in embarrassing Lola more than she cared to admit, so she didn't pursue the conversation further. Instead, Lola took Jane's hand and led her into the kitchen. For Isabelle's part, Sam's remarks led her to think of Lola wearing diapers, a thought that caused her to laugh and pee uncontrollably in Sam's arms. 

Sam noticed what was happening immediately. "Good girl. Get it all out now. I don't need you peeing on me upstairs!" Sam joked, as he carried Isabelle up toward the bedroom with the changing table

As Sam approached the changing table, his palms felt clammy, and his heart raced. It had been a long time since he had been responsible for a diaper change, and the nerves were undeniable. The nerves weren't necessarily about the diaper change - he really had done plenty of those - but more about showing Jane that they could be a partnership moving forward. 'That I can be a father to her,' Sam thought.

Sam laid Isabelle on the changing table, her bright eyes fixed on Sam with a mixture of curiosity and and comfort. Her tiny fingers played with the edge of the soft padding underneath her to east her anxieties. It hadn't occurred to Isabelle either at that point that Sam would be changing her for the first time. For Isabelle, she simply felt safe with him.

"Okay, Isabelle," Sam muttered to himself, his voice a mix of determination and trepidation. "You and me, kiddo. We've got this." Sam began to carefully undo the diaper, tearing the removable sides, each movement slow and deliberate. Isabelle watched him intently, her little face a portrait of curiosity.

As the diaper came off, Sam couldn't help but chuckle. "Well, Isabelle, it seems like you've been quite busy in there. I am surprised this thing stayed on you at all," he said, his voice lightening with amusement. Sam gently cleaned Isabelle with utmost care, his touch light and tender. He sang a soft lullaby, his voice a soothing balm that filled the room. Isabelle couldn't help but giggle at the joke. 

"Almost done," Sam remarked, as he pulled out one of the thick diapers Dani had put her in, and placed in underneath her, before spraying and patting powder on the sweet girl. "There we go," Sam said with a relieved smile as he fastened the clean diaper in place. "All done, Isabelle. You were a champ."

As Sam lifted Isabelle from the changing table and cradled her in his arms, a feeling of warmth and accomplishment washed over him. Isabelle nestled against him, her tiny fingers grasping the fabric of his shirt between the buttons, the very tips of her fingers grazing against the hairs on his chest. Sam smiled as he felt Isabelle's tiny fingers against his chest; it served as both a memory of wonderful times with Lola, as well as a promise of what could be. "What do you say to dinner now sweetie?"

Isabelle nodded, and firming her grip against Sam. 'Food does sound good.'

 
 

[Olympiczero]

The Ballet Slippers - Chapter 57

Isabelle sat in her high chair while the grown ups continued to dine. Isabelle slouched back into the comfortable chair, listening to the conversation around her. For once, she was happy to not be the center of attention. Lola had lovingly dotted over her throughout dinner, which had been wonderful. Lola even helped feed Isabelle her dinner when Isabelle had refused to eat her broccoli, puncturing each piece with a fork and easing them one after another into Isabelle's mouth. Isabelle wasn't exactly sure why, but she was less inclined to refuse the food from Lola.

But now Isabelle was very full, her tummy popping out from her shirt and revealing her bellybutton and diaper. Isabelle wasn't in the mood to talk; she wanted to listen. "You're cut off," Sam instructed Lola, as he poured the rest of the wine into his and Jane's glasses. 

Jane had been a little surprised that Sam let Lola have any wine, being underage and all. But his explanation had made sense. "I let her try some in the house, with me. They're teens - they're going to try. Better with me, where I can control it, then out and about where they get into trouble." Apparently Sam had thought Lola had tried enough for the night, however. Lola didn't object.

"So Lola, how's school going? How's the December show coming along?" Jane asked, as she pushed her own plate of food away from her, and picked up her wine glass.

"It's going really well. Dani is actually the principal dancer in that show," Lola explained, before turning to Isabelle. "You remember Dani, right sweetie? You ballet teacher?" Isabelle nodded and smiled. She simply didn't have the energy to speak, letting a yawn escape from her small little mouth. 

"Anyway," Dani continued, "the show is coming along great. As soon as tickets go on sale, I'll be sure to get some for all three of you."

'That sounds wonderful!" Jane responded. "Do you hear that Belly? We're going to go to a real ballet with Lola and Dani in it! Isn't that exciting?" 

Isabelle mustered a smile and another nod, before she started whining a little. Isabelle wasn't exactly sure why she was whining - she was just unhappy. Or uncomfortable. 'Or both,' Isabelle decided.' Isabelle's face scrunched up in frustration as her whine grew louder. "Hmmmmmmaaammmmmmmmm" 

"Oh is someone feeling fussy?" Sam posited, as he stood up and lifted Isabelle out of her high chair, carrying her back over to his seat, and placing Isabelle on his lap. Isabelle and Sam both felt as her wet diaper squished against his knee, Sam bouncing her up and down rhythmically as she let her weight relax against his body. 

"I think it's time to take someone home to bed," Jane suggested, as she finished her glass of wine, and started to stand up. 

"Why don't you just stay instead?" Sam proposed nervously. The thought had been on his mind all throughout dinner, though he felt as though he might be pushing the envelope with the proposal. Still, it was something he wanted. 

Jane was taken back by the offer, and her head started scrambling for excuses to say no. "Oh...that's really kind of you. But Isabelle doesn't have her crib here. And she doesn't have any pajamas, or her toothbrush....And she had ballet tomorrow. I don't have any of her things. It might just be a lot."

Sam was disappointed, but respected the answer. Sam was about to acquiesce, when Lola, rather innocently, offered some solutions. "She slept here all last week in the bed, and was...well sort of okay. If she climbs into bed with me again its no problem. And I can just give her a t-shirt to sleep in Jane." Lola offered, only trying to help. "Plus we definitely have spare toothbrushes."

Sam smiled, and turned to Jane. Sam didn't need to say anything - his eyes did all the talking. 'Let's give it a shot Jane.'

Jane was about to resist again. About to put her foot down. About to end the discussion. But she stopped. 'Why? I....I want this too. I want.....I want us all to be together." Jane's posture relaxed, and she allowed herself to smile, to be happy. And Jane's eyes said her response for her. 'Okay Sam. Let's do it.' 

Jane didn't bother to ask Isabelle if she wanted to sleep over - there was no doubt she would want to. "Let me take her upstairs for a bath. I have a filthy little girl here," Jane said, as she picked Isabelle up off of Sam's lap. "Lola - can you get her a t-shirt to sleep in? Whatever you find will be okay."

"And Sam.....

...

...thank you." 

In no time at all, Jane had an exhausted Isabelle in the guest bath up the stairs, naked and in the tub. Jane was scrubbing Isabelle's messy face clean when Lola opened the door to let Jane know that Lola had set a t-shirt down on the changing table. Isabelle then asked Lola to stay, which she did, much to Isabelle's excitement. Lola sat on the closed toilet seat while Jane finished washing Isabelle, before picking Isabelle up out of the tub and handing her off to Lola who held a towel open for her. 

Lola dried Isabelle off, before carrying her to what was turning into Isabelle's bedroom, and set her down on the changing table. As a team, Lola and Jane quickly lotioned, powdered, and diapered Isabelle, before brushing her hair out and tying it into a ponytail. Lola then pulled her old dance team t-shirt over Isabelle's head. Even though it was years old, the shirt still fell to the ground around Isabelle's feet. Jane then tucked Isabelle into the big girl bed, where she received one kiss from each of Lola and her mom. Before the lights were even off, Isabelle was fast asleep.

*************************

Isabelle rubbed her eyes as she sat up on her wet padding. As she took the room in around her, Isabelle felt her heart beat a little faster. Isabelle knew where she was - it was Lola's. It wasn't that she was uncomfortable in the bed, or that she wasn't tired. 'It just feels like.......a lot of space," Isabelle thought, as she stared at the massive bed around her. 'I don't want to be here anymore.'

Isabelle moved to the side of the bed, lowering herself down, accidently stepping on Lola's t-shirt as she did so. Isabelle lifted her feet and pulled her shirt up, as she felt her diaper sag down, and made her way to the door to her room. It took all of her might again, but Isabelle managed to open the door and slip through, before it shut behind her. 

Holding her shirt up, Isabelle tiptoed toward Lola's door, reaching and placing her hand on the knob. But Isabelle didn't turn it. 'I.....I......." Isabelle wasn't sure what it was, but her gaze was diverted away from Lola's door, and down the hall. Isabelle fixed her eyes on what she knew was Sam's bedroom. Where Sam was sleeping. "Where mommy is," Isabelle told herself.

Isabelle's hand slipped off of the knob, and her feet started to turn to face Sam's bedroom door. Without thinking, instinct carried her little feet, one after the other, toward the door. Isabelle passed the staircase leading down to the main entryway; she passed another room that Isabelle figured to be an office; she passed a small living space with a leather couch and TV in it. And suddenly, Isabelle felt her small fingers wrapped around a different knob.

Isabelle stood silently for a minute. Isabelle wasn't thinking any particular thoughts, or having any reservations. But Isabelle also somehow understood that this would be the first time in her life - or lives, depending on how you looked at it - that she would open the door to her mom's bed, and find not one parent, but two. It was an odd sensation, one a toddler wouldn't necessarily expect to wait over eighteen years to experience. 

But it didn't stop her. Isabelle twisted the knob, and pushed the door open, revealing a sight that filled her heart with wonder and warmth.

In front of Isabelle lay a spacious bedroom beyond anything Isabelle had ever seen. The room was bathed in the ethereal glow of moonlight, making it's way in through the windows flanking either side of the room. In the center was a king-size bed that seemed to stretch on forever. Its elegant frame was adorned with intricate carvings, and even from her spot at the door, Isabelle could tell the bedding was a sea of silk and softness. Pillows of varying sizes beckoned like clouds, offering promises of comfort beyond imagination.

The room was a sanctuary of luxury, where every detail had been meticulously chosen—a chandelier that sparkled like stars, a plush carpet that caressed the feet, and art adorning the walls that told stories with each brushstroke.

At the center of this oasis lay Jane, Isabelle's mommy, on top of the bedsheet. Isabelle could see that she was wearing a t-shirt that didn't belong to her either, likely Sam's, and not much else. As Isabelle's eyes moved around the room, she spotted the various clothes her mom had shown up in that night; her jeans and panties were at the foot of the bed, her bra on the ground on the side she was sleeping on, and her top, interestingly, hanging on top of a nearby lamp. 

Beside her mommy was Sam, bare chested and slumbered peacefully. Jane's arm hung over his chest, curled at the tips of her fingers, as the two breathed in and out peacefully, as though in metronome. Sam's dress shirt lay crumpled at the foot of the bed near Jane's pants, emerging from underneath a pillow

Isabelle hesitated at the doorway, her eyes wide as saucers. She felt just like a little explorer in this grand kingdom of a bedroom. Her heart pounded with a mixture of anxiety and longing as she worked out what she would do next.

With a tiny, determined breath, Isabell let the door fall back behind her, and toddled towards the edge of the bed. After a pause, a small foot reached up, fingers clutched the bedsheet, and then a little girl pulled herself up and over the threshold at the foot of the bed. The mattress welcomed Isabelle with open arms, its softness enveloping her like a gentle hug. But this was not where Isabelle wanted to settle.

Isabelle rolled onto her belly, using her arms to prop herself up. Gently, Isabelle crawled toward her mom and Sam, unsure where she would lay at first, but deciding ultimately, she wanted to be near both of them. Isabelle reached out, and moved her mom's arm out of the way, letting it fall off of Sam and to the side. Isabelle then climbed into the small space between her mom and Sam, nestling herself.  Isabelle's heartbeat slowed to match the rhythm of the room, of her mom, of dam, before she fell right back to sleep.

********************************

Isabelle's fluttered her eyes open, the soft light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. She wasn't precisely sure where she was. Her face felt warm, and her body comfortable. But she wasn't laying on the mattress anymore. 

Isabelle's tiny head lay nestled on Sam's chest, her golden ponytail falling behind her as a stream of drool continued to fall from her open lips.. Each rise and fall of Sam's chest beneath her was like a gentle ride on a calming wave. Sam's heartbeat, the soothing rhythm of love and security, was the first thing Isabelle became aware of as she began to wake.

With curiosity, Isabelle lifted her head slightly, her eyes meeting Sam's peaceful face. 'I don't....think I fell asleep here?' Isabelle could see that Sam's features were softened by sleep, his expression calm, relaxed, and in control. To Isabelle, he was not just her mom's boyfriend; he was a part of her world.

"Good morning cutie," Sam whispered, sending a shockwave of warmth down shivering down Isabelle's body. In a moment of childish wonder, Isabelle decided to play a little game. As Sam inhaled, his chest rose, lifting her slightly. Then, as he exhaled, she gently sank back down. It was a slow, rhythmic dance between the two of them, almost like a ballet.

Up and down, up and down they went, like a seesaw. Isabelle couldn't help but smile as she rested her head back down. Isabelle's giggles, like wind chimes, filled the room as she reveled in the simple joy of the moment. Sam's eyes blinked open, his heart swelling with affection as he realized the source of the delightful sounds.

"Good morning, Isabelle," Jane called over, as she came out of the ensuite bathroom, smiling at the sight of her daughter and Sam. "Are we having fun?"

Isabelle responded with a bright smile, her laughter echoing in the room. Jane, awakened by the joyful commotion, popped back on to the bed next to the two of them, her shirt briefly exposing her bottom before she fixed it. Jane felt fulfilled, wonderful, spirited, and young. Most importantly, her heart warmed with love as she watched the two people she cherished most in the world, bonding in the soft light of dawn.

"Okay sweetie. Fun is over. We need to get you ready for school," Jane said, as she lifted Isabelle up off the bed, or more precisely, Sam. "I have to message Jess as well and have her pick up your dance clothes," Jane continued, as she made sure her shirt was covering her body before opening the door to the hall. "She's just going to love this." 

*****************************

Isabelle woke up from her afternoon nap, feeling full of energy. Her day had been spectacular, and she couldn't wait to spend a few more hours with her friends at pre-school before they went to dance class that afternoon. As Isabelle stretched her arms above her head and sat up, she reflected on her morning.

It had been incredibly special to wake up in bed with her mom and Sam. Though her mom had expressed her displeasure for not staying in her bed - "It looks like we'll need to get a crib for that room as well now" Jane had conceded over breakfast, much to Sam's satisfaction - it was a moment that Isabelle would not forget. 'In a way, it made Sam mine also now,' Isabelle thought. 'Mommy is always mine, and Lola has already been mine for sometime. But Sam......he's mine too now.' Isabelle truly felt at home with Sam, as much as she did anyone else.

Isabelle was about to stand up, when she was lifted up by Miss Kelly, who routinely carried her over to the changing table and set Isabelle down. Moments later, Isabelle found herself being offered a pacifier, which she dutifully accepted without question, closing her eyes and letting Kelly go about her change. 'An even better part though was being able to have breakfast with Lola,' Isabelle thought. It was strange, waking up in the same home as Lola and eating breakfast together not as friends, 'but something different.'

The best part, of the morning, however, had been when Lola had given Isabelle a present Lola bought for Isabelle after breakfast. "I got this the other day when we were shopping at the craft store. I saw you were drawing in some old journal, and thought you might rather draw in an actual proper coloring pad to use instead!' Lola had explained, before handing Isabelle the spiral-bound book.

Isabelle took the coloring pad in her hands, holding it in front of her face. Isabelle was beaming, and she didn't need to know how to read to notice that Lola had written her name beautifully on the front, in a rainbow of colors:

ISABELLE'S ART

'I don't.......know what to say...' was all Isabelle could think, as she starred at her new coloring pad, flipping it open to find countless empty pages, just waiting for her to fill them up. 'Thank you so much," Isabelle managed, as she looked at Lola full of thanks. 'It was perfect. And Lola was right, she did need somewhere new to color.' All concern for her investigative journal washed away; there was simply no need for it anymore, not with Dani's magical fairy coming any day now! 

Isabelle felt a tug on the other end of her pacifier, and reluctantly relinquished the teat from her lips. Isabelle opened her eyes as Miss Kelly set her down on her feet, and patted her freshly diapered butt as to indicate her to go on. 

Isabelle quickly found Julia playing with some blocks of various shapes, and worked to stack them with her. Julia explained that they were going to build a fortress, and Isabelle's job was to build the walls. Isabelle thought about protesting, having been given the easiest - 'and most borignest' - task to do when building a fortress. But Isabelle felt she was still waking up, and was more interested in her thoughts.

Isabelle continued to stack blocks as best she could, but found her coordination was a little off. 'Not my best job,' Isbaelle thought, as she shifted to a new section of her wall. But her thought of the fairy returned Isabelle to her line of thinking the day prior; 'is everyone not better off with me......like this?' She couldn't deny how happy her mom was - it was as though she had a new lease on life. 'And everyone else too....'

But another thought began to creep into Isabelle's mind. 'Am I better off.....too?" It wasn't so much a question that she was enjoying her new life. 'Loving it, in fact.' Even the parts that a few weeks ago would have repulsed her felt and seemed more wonderful than ever. She missed her teenage years and the dreams she had for her future. But she also cherished the love, laughter, and wonder of her toddler life. Isabelle was genuinely struggling, and for the first time, wondered - 'I don't know if I know what I want anymore.' 

Isabelle's thoughts shifted to the Clam Conjurer's last words to her: "I sense a storm of uncertainty in your heart as well, little one. When the time comes, you must learn to quell that storm on your own. You already have everything you need to do it." It felt like that storm was raging inside her. And Isabelle had no answers as to how she might quell it. 

Isabelle worked at the wall as Julia provided additional instructions, as the two worked together for some time. Becky would always be her best friend, but in some ways, it felt like Becky was leaving Isabelle behind a bit. Sure, Isabelle was still the best dancer in the ballet class. But with each passing day, Becky's maturity in class, her ability to digest Miss Deena's classwork, and her near mastery of the potty, it seemed like Becky was just headed in another direction sometimes. 

Isabelle was proud of her friend, of course. But still, sometimes it was just enjoyable to be with Julia. Isabelle was glad for their friendship. Isabelle couldn't quite put her finger on it, but there was something about Julia. Sometimes, it felt like when Isabelle met her eyes, Julia just understood what Isabelle was going through, understood the challenges of Isabelle's everyday life. 'Sometimes it feels like she just understands what I'm going through, And it feels good to feel understood.' 

Sick of spending too much time on serious thoughts, Isabelle shook off her mind, and decided to focus on the task at hand. Lifting several blocks, Isabelle made her way over to Julia to help her finish the fortress, stacking the remaining blocks as high as their heads, careful to balance each one before setting it down. Just like that, Isabelle exchanged the thoughts of life, or her desires, of her challenges for those of play, of fun, of laughter and of giggles, as she and Julia - and Becky soon after, joined to finish playing in their castle. 

"Becky! Isabelle! Time to go!" 

Isabelle turned her head as she heard Jess calling out from the front, and chased after Becky as she ran up toward her mom, waddling along the way. Isabelle grabbed hold of Jess's legs, as Jess held Becky in her arms, both toddlers hugging her with all their respective might. 

"Okay girls. Okay. Let's let go of me please," Jess said laughing, as she set Becky down next to Isabelle. "How were they today?" Jess asked Miss Deena, as she approached to sign the kids out. 

"Oh well Becky continues to be a superstar. No accidents at all today. And she went to the potty all by herself each time!"

"Oh my god! Becky! Amazing. You know what this means! But we'll start tonight sweetie, okay?" Jess said, Becky beaming back with a big smile.

"And our Isabelle was a perfect little girl too. Definitely not ready for potty training yet, but we'll get there eventually! She was a little quiet today though. Do you know why?" 

Jess grinned mischievously. "Oh I think I might. Isabelle and her mommy had a sleepover at mommy's friend's house, didn't you sweetie?' Jess teased, though it went right over Isabelle's head, who merely confirmed. "I think you actually got to meet Lola last week right? Jane and her dad Sam have been together a few months now......................over........................................amazing......................"

Isabelle lost interest as the conversation continued, but it wasn't much longer before Jess was saying goodbye, and picked Isabelle up and on to Jess's hip. "Becky, you be a big girl and hold mommy's hand while I carry Belly," Jess instructed, as her daughter obliged. 

The rest of the way to ballet class was uneventful. Isabelle sat comfortably in Eric's car seat, Becky to her left side in her booster seat. Not long later, Isabelle was lifted out of the car seat, and carried into the ballet studio, where Jess worked to dress both girls, starting with Becky, and then shifting to getting Isabelle dressed.

Jess pulled off Isabelle's pants, and worked Isabelle's tights up over her swollen diaper, assessing that it could it make through the ballet class. Jess then helped Isabelle into her leotard, observing as the toddler's diaper bulge was accentuated further and further with each layer of clothing. Jess could hardly stifle her chuckle at the sight of Isabelle's ballooning bottom as she worked to tie Isabelle's hair into a neat bun, before patting her on the butt to send her on her way.

"Oops!" Jess exclaimed, reaching back into Isabelle's ballet bag with one hand and grabbing hold of Isabelle with the other. "Almost forgot! Your slippers sweetie. Let's get them on," Jess said, as Isabelle stretched her little legs out for Jess so Jess could put Isabelle's shoes on for her.

As each of her wiggly toes settled perfectly into her ballet slippers, Isabelle once again felt whole. Isabelle felt unstoppable as she stood up, hugging Jess to thank her for helping Isabelle get dressed. Isabelle felt grateful, as she glided toward her class, as they were getting into position with Dani to stretch. Isabelle felt joyful as Dani smiled at her, and she bent over to touch her hands to her toes. And Isabelle felt complete, complete in her outfit, complete as she watched her mom walk into the studio from between her legs, complete as the warmth of her ballet slippers overtook her little body.

"Looking great there Belly!" Dani said, complimenting Isabelle's work through the stretching routine. Dani had positioned herself next to Isabelle as she led the group through their next stretch. "Are you going to be our first performer through the routine we practiced? You were so great on Tuesday! It would be super helpful if you were willing to go first for everyone! It would be such a big help to me. What do you say?"

Isabelle was nervous. 'First? I never like to go first. But Dani did say I would be a big help.' Isabelle decided that she would do it. "Okay Dani! Also. Did you talk to the magic fairy yet? When is she coming? When? When? Is her name Serafina?!?" Isabelle was too excited. Dani had said it would be soon, even this week. And it was already Thursday.

Dani couldn't help but laugh. "Oh she's coming sweetie. I think you'll get to see her on Saturday! And how did you know her name already?" Dani asked playfully. "Fairy names are super secret! You can't tell anyone that you know her name Belly!"

Isabelle hadn't known. 'I better listen. I don't want to upset Serafina if she finds out that I've been saying her name!' Isabelle made a motion across her lips like she was zipping them shut, and continued through the stretching routine as Dani shifted positions once more.

"Alright, little ballerinas," Miss Emily called out, ending the stretching session. "Today we are going to work on one of the most important ballet moves—called pliés," Miss Emily announced, her voice sweet and melodic. "We worked on these a little bit when we prepared the routine, but were going to perfect them now. Plié means to bend, and it's the foundation of many ballet steps. Today, we're going to work on getting your bends right. You want them strong, stable, and low, accentuating every movement as you do it. Miss Dani will demonstrate."

The girls watched with rapt attention as Miss Dani demonstrated the graceful movement. Miss Dani repeated the process so the girls could see again, Isabelle paying strict attention. Dani stood tall with her arms gently curved, and then, with fluid grace, she bent her knees and lowered herself, spreading her legs elegantly, all while maintaining perfect posture.

Miss Emily joined in after Dani, the two moving in perfect unison to demonstrate the movement for the class again. 

Isabelle looked at Becky and Julia; each were equally enchanted at Miss Emily and Dani's elegance. 'I wanna be able to look like that,' Isabelle thought, as she stood up with the class, ready to try.

"Now, it's your turn, my little stars," Miss Emily encouraged, beckoning the toddlers to join them. "Everyone to the barre first. We are going to try on the barre first. Everyone make sure to leave enough space between you."

Isabelle, Becky, and Julia took their positions on the barre next to each other, their small hands gripping the ballet barre for support. Miss Dani stood behind them, ready to assist.

"Remember, girls, heels together, toes apart," Miss Emily reminded them. "Heels together. Toes apart. Heels together. Toes apart. Now, let's plié together. Ready? And go!"

The three friends hesitated for a moment, their eyes locked on Miss Emily. Then, with a collective deep breath, they bent their knees, lowering themselves just as they had seen their instructors do. Tiny smiles of determination graced their faces.

"Very good, my little dancers!" Miss Emily praised, her voice filled with warmth. "Now, let's try it again."

For the next few minutes, the studio echoed with the soft sounds of ballet slippers and the giggles of the three friends as they practiced their pliés. Miss Emily and Miss Dani moved among them, offering gentle guidance and encouragement.

For her part, Isabelle felt the maneuver came with ease. It was as if she had mastered the movement after only a few attempts. Standing, lowering, flowing, and up. Isabelle moved through the sequence with precision, with grace, and with elegance. Isabelle felt her hands naturally release from the barre, performing the movement perfectly without the support of the barre all the same.

"Amazing work Isabelle! Seriously! That's about as perfect as I've ever seen!" Dani said truthfully, complimenting her protégé. "Keep going at it."

Isabelle couldn't help but smile. It felt wonderful being good - no, being great - at something. It felt even better have Dani there to watch, to see, to acknowledge it. As the class continued, Isabelle, Becky, and Julia found their confidence growing. Isabelle saw that even her friends were getting better with the movement, but none so well as Isabelle. 

"Alright everyone. Now let's take a little break, before we go through our routine we practiced on Tuesday. Everyone is going to take a turn performing," Miss Emily explained. "Dani, why don't you walk through the steps one more time as a reminder for everyone while they catch their breath."

Isabelle took a seat near where her mom, Jess, and Kat were sitting along with Julia and Becky. While Julia and Becky were glad to fool around and watch Dani, Isabelle found herself distracted by the conversation going on behind her. It was her mom's voice that drew her attention first.

"......................................amazing...............and I mean. A-Maze-Ing.............................."

"....................just crawled into.......................................what did you do?" 

'That was Kat,' Isabelle knew. She didn't even need to to turn before her mom responded.

"What could I do..............................zero energy left in me.........................fell fast asleep................"

"..............................Lola? Wasn't it weird with her in the........................................"

"Kinda. But..................................................bit my lip so hard trying to be quiet..................failed............................"

"Ugh. Jealous..........................................................next?"

Isabelle could hear her mom hesitate before she answered the question directed toward her. Longer than Isabelle expected. Long enough that Isabelle turned, just in time to hear the whole response once Jane was ready to answer.

"Everything. Everything I hope." 

Isabelle wasn't sure what the question was, but smiled at her mom's confident response, observing as Jess lay her head on her mom's shoulder in support. 'Me too mom. Whatever it is.  I want it all.' It was all Isabelle could think. 

"Okay everyone. Let's get started!" Isabelle heard Miss Emily call out, snapping her attention back to the task at hand. "Do we have any volunteers to go first?"

Isabelle realized in that moment that she had technically volunteered earlier in the class. But Isabelle was feeling too nervous to raise her hand. Until Dani came over.

"You can do it sweetie. I promise. It will be great!" Dani whispered into Isabelle's ear, encouraging the girl as she was starting to lose color in her face. But Isabelle knew Dani was right. 

'I can do this. I will do this.' Isabelle couldn't be certain if it was her or her ballet slippers speaking, but without thinking, her arm went into the air. "I'll go first Miss Emily!" Isabelle called out, and turned to see her mom beaming with pride.

Isabelle, with her golden hair neatly pinned back and her pink tutu shimmering in the studio light, took her position in the front of the class. As she turned, her stomach filled with anxiety, to face the crowd, she saw her friends, Becky and Julia smiling back at her. She saw her mom and Jess, and even Kat, beaming with pride and smiles. And she felt the warmth of her ballet slippers flow through every inch of her body. So Isabelle smiled back, filled with excitement, and ready to dance. Her tiny ballet slippers kissed the polished floor as she curtsied gracefully to the polite applause of her audience.

As soon as the music began to play, the world around Isabelle changed. But Isabelle didn't wait for it to do so - she simply danced. As the ballet studio faded away, as the stage developed underneath her, Isabelle was unfazed. As Isabelle gracefully bent into her first plié, emphasizing the lessons she learned that day, she took no notice of the curtains as they fell down along the stage, as the balconies and orchestra rolled out in front of her. 

As the delicate melody that seemed to carry the dreams of a thousand dancers and Isabelle all at once played around her, as she flowed across the stage under a golden chandelier . Isabelle's eyes sparkled as she gracefully moved through her routine—a series of pliés, tendus, and arabesques. Grand Jetés, fouettés, and pirouettes galore. Butterflies flew in her stomach as Isabelle lifted herself into an attitude derrière, a tour en l'air, cambre, gargouillade. It no longer mattered where she had been transported; it was about the dance, about the performance. Isabelle could feel herself reaching the climax of the routine. Nothing else mattered.

All through the routine, Isabelle's pliés were executed with a charming blend of focus and innocence. Isabelle bent her knees with such precision, her heels always together, toes elegantly turned outward. Her little arms curved gracefully as she held her pose, her fingers reaching for the imaginary stars above.

But the highlight of Isabelle's performance was yet to come—the grand plié. Isabelle had been practicing for this moment in her mind, and even though she only needed to do a regular plié to end, she wanted to show Dani and Emily what she could do. 'I want to show myself. 

It was time to shine. With the audience in front of her holding their breath, Isabelle lowered herself into the deepest plié she had ever attempted, her tiny knees bending as far as they could go. Isabelle lowered herself, further, pushing and straining her muscles to perform at the highest level, her knees bending out further than she ever imagined they could.

As Isabelle held the pose, her face lit up with determination and pride. The room seemed to hold its breath in unison, captivated by her performance. And then it all faded around her. The stage, the audience, the balconies, the drapes, and the chandelier. They all fell into the abyss. But Isabelle held. She held her pose with a smile. She held it firm. She held it strong. She held it elegantly, as the world around her began to re-form. Soon enough, Isabelle found herself back in the ballet studio, in front of her friends, in front of Dani, in front of her mom. But she continued to hold her spot.

And then, in an unexpected twist of fate, the strain of the grand plié became too much for Isabelle. A look of surprise crossed her face, and she let out a tiny gasp, so small that only a parent might catch it. Or, well, at least Jane did.

And Jess.

And Kat.

And Dani.

And Emily.

And probably more than a few other parents as well. 

In fact, it was all the parents who knew precisely what was happening.

All the parents who politely did their best to not laugh, but it was simply irresistible. 

Because it was in that moment, at the bottom of her grand plié, that Isabelle's body decided to release a huge, mushy load of poop into her diaper.

It was in that moment, as Isabelle held her position perfectly, that anyone other than a toddler could see Isabelle pushing the mess out of her bottom, her diaper and leotard pushed out to their limit.

It was in that moment, that the room simply filled with laughter—a spontaneous eruption of amusement and understanding as Jane stood up, the proud parent of the poopy ballerina, and led the applause as she made her way over to Isabelle. 

"Great work Isabelle!" Dani called out through her own laugh, before helping Jane ease Isabelle to the side. "You really were wonderful sweetie. But I think you need to go with your mommy now" Dani added, before turning back to the group to held the next dancer.

Jane picked Isabelle up, pressing the mushy mess further against Isabelle's bum. But Jane couldn't be bothered. She was so proud. "You were amazing my beautiful girl," Jane said, planting a kiss on her smiling daughter. "Now let's go change that poppy bottom in the car, so we can watch your friends too, okay love?" 

Isabelle smiled obliviously. From Isabelle's perspective, she had just performed her butt off - literally. And she had been wonderful. "Otay mommy!"

[diaper24/7]

Nice new chapter and the story coming along nicely.

[BabySofia]

Have to watch that plie position!! 🤣

So she just had time in her slippers again, I presume we're about to see another regression... I would guess final? I'm curious about the grand clam if that might be something that is 'real' and maybe she gets to choose growing up all over again or suddenly being herself again. The loss of her journal was kind of telling to me there. 

Glad you had time to write again, I completely understand when someone doesn't have that! (That's me for the next few months sadly!)

[Kahlez]

Ok sorry for not being active lately (last time was sometime around mid July or so xD) but i did had to deal with some Hospital time and surgery (hopefully all over now). After this i needed to make progress with my AI and it gave me PTDS... the next time i read that any program has an error... i will just scream. 

I have cached up to chapter 52 and i like the "new" chapers (at least for me). I would like to give a bit better feedback but i have to catch up first 

[keith60]

this story is good 

[Olympiczero]

15 hours ago, diaper24/7 said:

Nice new chapter and the story coming along nicely.

Thanks so much! We are, sadly, approaching the end it would seem! So happy you've stayed along for the journey.

 

14 hours ago, BabySofia said:

Have to watch that plie position!! 🤣

Isn't it just a darn shame when that happens? 🤣

14 hours ago, BabySofia said:

So she just had time in her slippers again, I presume we're about to see another regression... I would guess final? I'm curious about the grand clam if that might be something that is 'real' and maybe she gets to choose growing up all over again or suddenly being herself again. The loss of her journal was kind of telling to me there. 

Glad you had time to write again, I completely understand when someone doesn't have that! (That's me for the next few months sadly!)

Next chapter should be posted today, so I guess you'll find out soon! I am glad as well. It was unfortunate. I wanted to spend the time on the end that I felt the story deserved, and it was hard to get enough time and attention in. Hope your hiatus is productive and well spent, if it indeed needs to happen! Hope you're around for the end of the story to come.

 

11 hours ago, Kahlez said:

Ok sorry for not being active lately (last time was sometime around mid July or so xD) but i did had to deal with some Hospital time and surgery (hopefully all over now). After this i needed to make progress with my AI and it gave me PTDS... the next time i read that any program has an error... i will just scream. 

I have cached up to chapter 52 and i like the "new" chapers (at least for me). I would like to give a bit better feedback but i have to catch up first 

First, I hope all is well and nothing too serious. I hope your recovery goes well. Second, I was missing you! I thought you might have grown out of the story, which would be fine. But I won't deny that I am thrilled you are still here for the ride. Seems you have quite a few more chapters to enjoy, and I certainly hope you do! 

[Kahlez]

3 hours ago, Olympiczero said:

First, I hope all is well and nothing too serious. I hope your recovery goes well. Second, I was missing you! I thought you might have grown out of the story, which would be fine. But I won't deny that I am thrilled you are still here for the ride. Seems you have quite a few more chapters to enjoy, and I certainly hope you do! 

Thanks there was an accident and it did a good amount of damage to my leg. It is healing well and there shouldnt be long term affects. Still there is a 50/50 that they have to do a very small surgery to adjust something in the knee after everything is fully healed. My biggest problem at the moment is the giant mountain of work that piled up... on the positive side i can say at least everything just cost me 140 Euros (10 per day in hospital for food).

[BabySofia]

4 hours ago, Olympiczero said:

Hope your hiatus is productive and well spent, if it indeed needs to happen! Hope you're around for the end of the story to come.

Thanks, I'll be around as a reader at times, I just work too many hours this time of year to maintain any creative muse generally. Looking forward to the next chapter! 🙂

[Olympiczero]

The Ballet Slippers - Chapter 58

The morning was sweet. It was the only word that could capture the day as the sun's gentle rays tiptoed through the curtains of Isabelle's room, painting her room in the crisp, golden light of the autumn day.

The morning air was fresh, carrying the scent of fallen leaves and the promise of a new day to Isabelle's flickering nostrils. The horizon, previously shrouded in the deepest blues and purples, had slowly transformed over the last hour to a bright orange, wisps of pink, and gold in the sky.

Outside, the cool breeze whispered through the colorful trees, rustling the changing leaves that did their best to cling to their branches for just a few more weeks, not ready to join their brothers and sisters who had created a quilt of colors beneath their boughs. 

As the world came alive, so did Isabelle. With a wide yawn and a stretch that reached to the far corners of her crib, Isabelle greeted the day with a sleepy smile. Isabelle was surprised as her mouth opened, realizing that something had fallen out as she yawned. Isabelle blinked, and looked directly in front of her, where a large pacifier had tumbled out of her mouth.

'Where.......where did that come from?' Isabelle wondered. 'I don't remember sleeping with a paci.....' But Isabelle felt herself missing it, felt like her mouth was too empty. Isabelle quickly returned it to her mouth, content to suckle at the nipple and feeling better again. 
 
Isabelle lifted her head, and reached her arms out to search for Rabbity, clutching her bunny against her body. Isabelle rolled her body to her right, so that she was facing her dollhouse and changing table, staples of her room that she could no longer envision not being where they were.

With her free left hand, Isabelle wrapped her fingers around one of the bars to her crib, using it to balance herself as she stood up against the heavy weight of her soggy diaper. Isabelle rubbed her eyes as the room came into focus; her room, where she felt safe and sound.

Today, like everyday, was another special day for Isabelle—a day filled with excitement and adventure. Soon, she would be in her mom's embrace, her scent, her warmth fueling Isabelle's morning. Then, Isabelle would get to go to daycare, where she would spend her day with her friends, playing, laughing, and learning.

'After that? Who knows? And more importantly, who cares?" It was all going to be fine, Isabelle assured herself. 'Better than fine. Perfect.'

Just as she was finishing her thought, Isabelle's attention was directed toward her bedroom door creaking open. Isabelle couldn't help but smile as she saw her mom step into the empty space that her door once occupied. Jane was smiling at Isabelle, her joy, her little daughter And Isabelle was smiling back. 

Isabelle didn't reflect on it often, it being her mom and all, but Isabelle couldn't help but appreciate how beautiful her mom looked in the morning light. Even as Jane greeted Isabelle and made her way toward her, Isabelle didn't hear what her mom was saying.

Instead, Isabelle was focused on her mom's fading blonde hair, gently curling at the end on her shoulders. Isabelle was looking into her mom's brown eyes, catching glimpses of the green in their centers as the light caught them at the right angle. Isabelle was distracted by her mom's figure, her hips shifting under her mom's short, black nightie with each step she took.

Isabelle smiled underneath her pacifier as her mom picked Isabelle up and our of her crib, holding her close in the nook of her mom's neck. Isabelle shut her eyes and was dazed by her mom's scent once more, inhaling deeply through her nose as it found it's way into her mom's clavicle, drool from underneath Isabelle's pacifier dripping down against her mom's bare skin. Isabelle felt comfort as she squeezed her legs around her mom, feeling her mom's hand secure Isabelle under her wet diaper. And then Isabelle heard her mom's voice.

"Good morning my sweet baby!"

And Isabelle melted further into her mom, continuing to nurse at her pacifier, and nuzzling her face into her mom's neck.

"Oh my! Someone is feeling very affectionate this morning,' Jane replied pressing her lips against her daughter's golden hair. "Is someone excited to get their day started?" Jane asked rhetorically, as she carried Isabelle around her crib. Isabelle nodded into her mom, not yet ready to open her eyes again, as she waited to be set down on her changing table. 

Isabelle's morning change was a routine Isabelle had not just gotten used to, but relished. Isabelle looked forward to her mom's touch as she removed her soiled diapers. Isabelle looked forward to the intimacy that existed between just the two of them, as Isabelle starred up at her mom' relinquishing all control to her. Isabelle looked forward to the mixture of scent between her diapers, wipes, lotion and powder, as they wafted through the air. And Isabelle looked forward to being put into a fresh diaper to start her day, knowing that at some point, her mom would be there to change it once more.

It was one of the best parts of her day.

....

But for some reason, it didn't seem to be happening that morning.

Isabelle began to feel a slight sense of anxiety that it was taking so long to be laid down on her changing table. Isabelle's eyes widened, concerned that her mom might have forgotten to change her. 'And I may be right!' Isabelle confirmed for herself, as she lifted her head over her mom's shoulder, spotting her changing table in the distance.

Rather than approaching her changing table though, her mom seemed to be carrying Isabelle further away. 'Wha...... Wha..........Where is mommy taking me?' Isabelle wondered. 

Isabelle began to fidget and whine, her anxiety growing into a slight panic. "Mmmmmmmphmmmmmph" Isabelle whining only had the effect of causing her mom to lightly pat her back, before settling her hand on Isabelle's back and running it gently counterclockwise. Isabelle felt her stomach begin to churn, as she felt her mom continue to move further from the changing table, toward the far corner of her room where her pile of stuffed animals were. 

Isabelle was about to turn her head to see where her mom was taking her when her mom suddenly turned for her, altering Isabelle's point of view so that she was now starring into the back corner of her room. Isabelle had only a moment before her perspective was changed again. But it was enough time for Isabelle to see her pile of stuffed animals still there, even if they were shifted further back against the wall.

It was another object, however, that stood out to Isabelle. This one foreign to her room. Isabelle felt as her mom lowered herself, and Isabelle together, into the foreign object, which began to slowly sway back and forth. Isabelle was startled by the motion, and instinctively whined again from behind her pacifier, this time louder than the first. "MMMMMMMMPPPPHHHHHMMMMMPHHH" 

But it was nothing to be frightened of in the end. 

It was simply a rocking chair.

"Shhhh, Shhhh, Shhhh, I know sweetie. Mommy knows." Isabelle heard her mom coo, as she shifted Isabelle on to her lap. Isabelle felt as her diaper squished against her mom's leg's the soft silk of her mom's nightie caressing her neck. Isabelle was glad to be starring up at her mom, and have her mom starring back down at her.

Isabelle's concern, however, was simple: she didn't understand why this exact moment wasn't being done on her changing table. 'Why are we here instead?' Isabelle couldn't help but voice her confusion once more, whining again, though far more calmly and quietly than she had before from behind her pacifier. "mmmphmmmph"

"Shhhhhhshhh. Mommy knows you're hungry. Give me one second Belly," Jane repeated, settling further into the rocking chair as she held Isabelle firmly with her right arm. 

Isabelle had managed to calm herself down at that point, but what happened next was simply unexpected. Had you given Isabelle a hundred guesses, she would not have been able to correctly guess what happened next. But happen it did.

As Jane continued to warmly smile down at Isabelle, Isabelle tracked her mom's left arm as it moved across her body toward Isabelle, and up to the spaghetti strap on her mom's right shoulder. Isabelle watched, as though it was in slow motion, as her mom shifted the strap holding up the black nightie off of her right shoulder above Isabelle's head. Isabelle's eyes grew, grew, and grew some more as the strap moved closer, closer, and closer to the edge of her mom's shoulder.

Until it slipped off.

Jane didn't stop there, however.

Isabelle watched as her mommy worked the once stable strap down over and around her elbow. Isabelle's eyes grew even larger. Still, Isabelle was oblivious as to what was happening. It was simply the shock of the situation.

Isabelle's eyes darted back to her mom's face, as though she expected her mom to be surprised as to what was happening. But Jane was still smiling down at Isabelle. 'Despite...whatever the heck she's doing....it's still so comforting to just stare back at her.'

Isabelle's eyes moved back toward her mom's right shoulder though, just in time to watch as her mom pulled her arm loose from the strap.

And suddenly, Isabelle knew what would happen next. Yet it was still a shock as it did. Isabelle watched as the right side of her mom's nightie fell loose, revealing...

'Oh my god!' It was all Isabelle could think at first. "Mom's boob is....is....is...HUGE!' Isabelle was startled at the mere sight of it, causing her to whimper unexpectedly, releasing some pee into her diaper.

'Has...it.......it always been that big?' Isabelle wondered, unsure what else she should be thinking of in that moment. Isabelle's eyes returned to her mom's face, as though to warn her mom that her top had fallen off. But Jane was still just smiling at Isabelle.

"Shhhh sweetie. Here you go," Jane said, as she pulled Isabelle's pacifier out from her mouth, placing it down at her side, before returning her free arm to Isabelle and easing her up.

Until that moment, Isabelle truly had not considered what might be happening. Until that moment, the best Isabelle could figure out was that her mom simply wanted to rock with Isabelle in the chair. Until that moment, everything that seemed to be happening with her mom's nightie was an accident, was unintentional, was just......just............just........

Isabelle's heart began racing, as it seemed she was being lifted glacially toward her mom's large, exposed breast. Isabelle's stomach began to churn, her mind race, as her mom lifted her closer toward the erect nipple pointing toward her.

'Am I really about to do......THIS?!?!' Isabelle could hardly fathom what was happening. The diapers? 'Okay, I got used to those.' The crib? 'Fine, it wasn't so bad. It was...safe.' The car seat? The stroller? Even the high chair? 'All those were manageable...they were......they weren't.........well they weren't this!' 

Isabelle's mind was digesting, fighting, debating, all of it as her mom continued to lift her, continued to smile down at her. Isabelle's eyes grew even larger, as she watched a bead of liquid seemed to form at the very edge of her mom's nipple, desperate, longing to fall free. Isabelle knew if she was going to act, she would need to act fast. 'To decide. To figure this out. To......To.....To.....'

Whether it was her mom, her own body, or anything else, Isabelle never got to decide. Or maybe she did after all. All Isabelle knew for certain was what happened next.

Isabelle felt her cheek gently make contact with her mom's warm, soft breast, as Jane lifted Isabelle up just once more. Isbaelle felt her face melt into her mom's flesh, the soft skin, inviting. Isabelle nuzzled her cheek against it, as she shut her eyes, wanting nothing more than for her mom to hold her firmly in that place forever. 

Isabelle felt as her mom shifted ever so slightly, her nipple brushing over her Isabelle's upper lip, tracing it from left to right, before doing the same on her bottom lip.

Isabelle felt as she wonderingly, willingly, and wantingly parted her lips to welcome the nipple into the warmth of her mouth.

Isabelle felt as her lips widened, opening up to accept more of her mother's breast into her mouth. engulfing her every sense.

Isabelle felt as her tongue delicately, delightfully, and then deliciously played with the nipple in her mouth, at it began to release the sweetest nectar Isabelle had ever tested, drop by drop, onto the buds of her tongue. 

It was all Isabelle could handle, as she became feverish for more. Instinct took over, and Isabelle no longer questioned what she ought to do. There was no more fighting or debating; there was only digesting, and not in the same way she had before.

Isabelle suckled deeply at her mom's breast, wave after wave of milk flowing into her mouth and down her throat. Isabelle couldn't get enough of it, as her mom held her head in place, rocking slowly, back and forth, in her chair. She wanted more. Needed more.

"Easy there sweetie....shhhhhh..........there is plenty for you...shhhhhhh slow sweetie....slow...." Isabelle heard her mom say delicately, and responded in turn, getting into a steadier rhythm as she felt the warmth of her mom's breast and body around her.

Isabelle suckled and suckled, until the flow seemed to slow. Just as she was about to work harder, she felt an object interfere; her mom's finger breaking the seal Isabelle had formed around her mom's nipple. Isabelle felt herself pulled away, spoting the wet, round saliva mark Isabelle had left behind. 

'More,' Isabelle thought, whining again. 'I need......Want....Want more.

Isabelle didn't have to wait long, as she watched her mom repeat the process she had earlier, this time freeing her left arm from its strap, letting her nightie simply fall off her breasts entirely. Isabelle didn't hesitate this time, practically lunging for her mom's newly freed nipple, and resuming the rhythm she had gotten into the first time around.

"What a good eater you're being this morning! And here mommy thought you were ready to wean down to nighttime feedings only! Maybe we'll have to wait on that for now....." Isabelle heard her mom say, though in reality, she wasn't listening to any of it. All she knew was the milk and her mother's touch, as Jane stroked Isabelle's hair as she fed. 

Isabelle opened her eyes as she was nursing, to find that her mommy was starring right back down at her, the smile never having left her face. Isabelle never wanted to let go of that moment. She had never felt closer to her mom. It wasn't about the milk, though it was delicious. It wasn't about the contact, though it was warm and soft. It wasn't about her mom's smile, though it was perfect.

It was a bonding moment that couldn't be put into words, so Isabelle didn't bother trying. Isabelle just starred back at her mom until she emptied her second breast, vulnerable, happy, perfect. 

"Let's get some solids in your tummy too my love,' Jane said, as she shifted Isabelle on to her shoulder and started patting her back. "And then we can get ready for preschool." 

****************************************

"How was she today?" Jane held Isabelle up as she spoke with Miss Deena, signing Isabelle out of preschool for the day.

"She was good. She's doing a good job working on her letters and numbers. I know you were worried it was a little early to take her out of daycare Jane. But I really do think it was the right decision. She's flourishing. And she's so cute playing with Julia. The two of them are always chasing Becky around, trying to keep up with her!" 

Jane smiled. It had been a difficult decision to move from daycare to preschool so quick. It was heartening to hear that her teacher felt it was a good one. "Well, she'll be yours for a couple of years then it seems, hopefully not ALL of them in diapers' Jane replied, affirming that she would indeed keep Isabelle there. "This little nugget has a big afternoon and night ahead of her though, Jane said, bouncing Isabelle on her hip. "We'll see you Monday. Have a great weekend." 

Isabelle felt herself placed into her stroller outside of the classroom, as her mom started pushing her toward the car. "We have to make an exciting stop today sweetie," Jane explained, as she turned the stroller around and backed out of the door to the preschool. "Lola needs a lift home from school today. If we're lucky, we may even catch the end of her ballet practice."

Isabelle giggled and clapped as her mom lifted her out of the stroller, and placed her into her car seat. Jane buckled Isabelle in, and handed her a bottle filled with apple juice, before closing the door. Isabelle immediately put the bottle's nipple to her mouth, mimicking the motions she had used that morning on her mom's breasts to get the juice out. Isabelle barely felt as the car started moving toward the high school.

Just as Isabelle began sucking air out of her bottle, she again found herself being unbuckled from her car seat. Isabelle felt as her mom slipped a finger into the front of her diaper, unconcerned for whatever she might be checking for. "Wet, but I think you can hold on until we're home," Jane said, speaking to herself, as she lifted Isabelle, and re-buckled her into her stroller. 

Isabelle observed the world around her as her mom pushed her toward the front entrance of the high school. The campus was quiet, classes still in session. But even empty as they were, the school felt familiar, yet entirely foreign to Isabelle. As Jane backed the stroller in through the front door, it hardly occurred to Isabelle that it had only been a few months since she had been walking through those same doors on her own two feet. 

Jane pushed the stroller through the main hall slowly, unsure of where she was supposed to go. 'I've never been in here before,' Jane noted for herself. Yet, Jane was feeling much the same as Isabelle, only the opposite. The school felt foreign, yet entirely familiar to Jane. 'For some reason.....I think this way?' Jane thought to herself, making a right turn at the first hallway and proceeding with an inexplicable confidence toward the dance auditorium. 

Jane weaved her way through the complex school feeling lost, yet at the same time confident about where she was going. As she rounded a final turn, Jane couldn't help but exclaim. "There you go! Knew I would find it!" And she did know. Jane just wasn't sure why she knew. 

Isabelle watched as her mom pushed her toward two massive auditorium doors. Just before they reached them. however, her mom stopped the stroller, and bent down next to her. "Sweetie. I need you to promise to be really quiet when were inside, okay? Lola is still practicing, and we have to be quiet so the teachers can do their job. Promise me Isabelle, okay? Or else we are going to have to wait outside!"

Isabelle nodded. "I pwomise mommy!" Isabelle really did intend to be good. She wanted nothing more than to watch Lola dance. 

"Okay sweetie. Here," Jane said, reaching under the stroller into one of the stroller compartments, pulling something out. "Take your paci when we're inside." Jane didn't wait for a response, pushing the pacifier toward Isabelle's opening mouth. Isabelle accepted it without question, and started suckling away contently. 

As quietly as possible, Jane pried the door open to the auditorium. Jane could hear music, and was certain class was very much still in session. Without opening the door any more than she needed to, Jane quietly backed Isabelle into the auditorium, before silently letting the door close behind her. 

The auditorium was dark, the only lights on being the small ones up and down the orchestra level seating, and the lights on stage. Jane was grateful the walkways were all carpeted, the stroller moving silently down the rows as Jane pushed it.

There were few other people in the audience; maybe a handful of parents and students spectating. Jane pushed the stroller down as far as she was willing, about 12 or so rows up, before kicking the break out and sitting in one of the aisle seats next to Isabelle.

"Be very quiet," Jane whispered, as teacher sitting at a table below and in front of the stage paused the music and began barking instructions. The teacher, a woman, was small, but she commanded the room. Jane noticed how the dancers on stage seemed terrified of her, as they responded in unison to her direction. 

"Yes Ms. Smith." Jane wasn't sure who Miss Smith was, but she didn't want to mess with her. 

Jane scanned the stage until she spotted Lola, on the far side, near the front. "Look Belly," Jane whispered as the music played, pointing to where Lola was standing. "There's Lola. Do you see her?"

Isabelle followed her mom's finger, trying to find Lola, but struggled. The dancers were all moving so  fast, and between them her mom's finger moving so quick, Isabelle couldn't keep track. Isabelle shook her head no. "can' see mommy!" Isabelle mumbled, a little too loudly, through her pacifier.

'Shhhhhh baby. Come here," Jane said, silently unbuckling Isabelle, and lifting her daughter up in her arms. "Look where mommy is pointing. Look right there. Lola is right in front of us now." 

Isabelle followed her mom's finger and this time, luckily found Lola. Isabelle nodded her head as she continued to suck on her pacifier, smiling that she found her friend. 'Lola looks beautiful', Isabelle thought, as she watched her go en pointe and twirl toward the center of stage. Lola's perfectly pinned up black hair shone under the spotlight, as she turned and diverted behind the center stage dancer, who captured Isabelle's attention too.

"And look! There's Dani too! Right in the middle sweetie. Do you see her? Do you see her too?" Isabelle heard her mom whisper, as she bounced Isabelle up and down lightly to keep her entertained. Isabelle nodded again. Nodded and suckled. 

Isabelle watched silently as the dancers moved beautifully through their choreography, her attention planted squarely on Lola or Dani the entire time. It was a masterpiece, Isabelle thought, and the work all the dancers had put in was evident in the production. Isabelle could scarcely believe the show was in such great shape already. 

Slowly, Isabelle forgot where she was. She was enchanted by the dancing so much so, that she had forgotten her mom's instructions. It wasn't that she was trying to misbehave; she had simply forgotten her promise. So it was, that when the music stopped, and Ms. Smith was preparing to give criticism, that Isabelle interrupted the class. 

'YAY LOLA!" Isabelle called out, clapping her hands loudly, as her pacifier fall to the ground. Isabelle thought the performance deserved an applause. 

Jane couldn't move quickly enough to stop the clapping, or Isabelle practically screaming for Lola. Jane only managed to stop the noise after several loud hand smacks echoed through the auditorium. "Belly! No!" Jane whispered, though the damage had already been done.

Jane was mortified as a stern, and angry looking Ms. Smith, turned her attention directly toward Jane, who had gone beet red of embarrassment. Jane was about to utter a desperate apology, when she was cut off.

"Sorry, Ms. Smith," Lola could be heard loudly calling from the stage over the laughter of her classmates. Though Ms. Smith was not entertained by the interruption, the twelfth grade students certainly thought Isabelle's antics were a riot. Mis. Smith's gaze diverted from Jane to Lola, waiting for an explanation. 

"That was just my - " Lola wasn't quite sure how to finish the sentence. Ms. Smith was not one who cared for prolonged explanations generally, let alone familial connections. Or prolonged conversation of any sort. What was Lola supposed to say? 'Sorry, that was my dad's girlfriend's daughter?' Of course not. 'Not to mention it would hardly describe how I feel about Isabelle. And Jane.' Lola knew how she wanted to finish the sentence. 'God I hope this doesn't make Jane uncomfortable," Lola thought, preparing herself.

" - that was just my...my.....

....my baby sister, Ms. Smith. She'll be quiet. I promise." Lola announced, the whole auditorium hearing her loud and clear. 

Jane had been distracted locating and cleaning Isabelle's pacifier when she heard Lola's explanation to Ms. Smith. It caused her to freeze.

Isabelle had been starring at Lola, proud of how well she danced, when she heard Lola's explanation to Ms. Smith. It caused her to freeze too.

Dani had been starring at Lola from the center of the stage as well, curious what Lola's explanation to Ms. Smith would be. It caused her to freeze as well.

Ms. Smith had been starring at Lola from her seat, waiting for an explanation. Ms. Smith seemingly froze as well, for what felt like a full minute, before responding. "See to it. Let's call that a day then." Ms. Smith then closed her notebook, and promptly left the auditorium at the front.

Jane, Isabelle, Dani, and Lola each exhaled, each processing a ton of thoughts on their own from the interaction. All of them good. 

*************************************

Isabelle giggled as she bounced up and down on Sam's lap on the couch in Jess and John's living room. Sam had been pretending that he and Isabelle were on a roller coaster together as John sat on the floor next to Becky, handing her crayons as she colored. Isabelle couldn't stop laughing as she and John ascended the coaster before the big drop Isabelle knew was about to come.

After a playful car ride home with Lola, Lola kissed Isabelle goodbye before being replaced in the front seat by Sam. "Lola has her own sleepover tonight sweetie. You'll see her tomorrow. She's going to take you trick or treating." Jane had explained when Isabelle started to cry as Lola left. Isabelle managed to stop short of the worst of it, and it helped when Sam got in the car and started to be silly with her as they drove to Jess's house for Isabelle's sleepover.

"Bumpy, bumpy, bumpy bump. Up we go Isabelle," Sam chanted playfully, as the excitement built up in Isabelle's body. In her mind, she wasn't ever even in John's living room - she was really on the coaster, sitting on Sam's lap, having a great time. Sam reached to the side, picking up his cocktail and taking a sip, before setting it back down.

"Here. We..........Go!" Sam announced, before wrapping his arms around Isabelle tightly, and bending forward, pretending to zoom down the decline. "LEFT!" Sam called, throwing his body - and Isabelle's - on the couch to the left. "RIGHT!" Sam called out quickly, repeating the process to the other side.

Isabelle couldn't help but shout her contentment, screaming joyfully in the house for all to hear. Sam continued the process until the "coaster" came to a stop, and Sam sat back up on the couch. "Thank you for riding the Sam Express. Please exit the ride in an orderly fashion." Sam announced, before picking Isabelle up, and placing her feet down on the carpet in front of her.

Isabelle was still giggling when Sam placed her down. She hadn't however, considered how dizzy she was from all the movement on the "coaster." As soon as she took one step forward, Isabelle felt herself lose her balance, spinning and falling onto her cushioned bottom, causing her to laugh even more. 

'Again! Again!" Isabelle called out, reaching up for Sam and kicking her legs in the air happily. Sam took another large sip of his drink, before picking Isabelle up, and sitting her on his lap facing him. Isabelle instinctively wrapped her legs around either side of Sam's waist, as he booped her on the nose. "Another time sweetie. Your mommy is coming down any second now, and we don't have time to go on another ride tonight. Soon, I promise! Sam said, reaching out a pinky for Isabelle.

Isabelle knew this contract; it was unbreakable. And so she nodded, and gave Sam a pinky back, wrapping them around each other to form an unbreakable deal. "Deal!" Isabelle said, as she flopped the upper half of her body down, hanging upside down between Sam's legs, and starring at whatever cartoon was on the TV. 

"Eric is all fed," Isabelle heard someone say as they entered the room. It was Mel, of course. Isabelle had been so happy to hear Mel would be babysitting again when her mom told her. When she saw Mel at the door, Isabelle ran up to her and jumped into her arms, giving her a great, big hug "MEL!" The night was sure to be entertaining with Mel in charge. 

'Thanks Melanie," John said. "I'll take him up to his mom so she can finish feeding him, and then well be out of your hair." John said, taking Eric from Mel and carrying him toward the stairs. As John was about to go up, Jane started to come down, and so John waited. 

"Oh good. Jess was just asking for him," Jane said, as she made her way down past John. "And who is it that's been screaming down here all night then?" Jane asked sarcastically, as she leaned over the back of the couch and kissed Sam. "Couldn't have been my Belly, could it have been hun?" Jane asked Sam, continuing to play the joke. "I'm preeettty sure I raised a sweet girl, not an animal!" Jane said, turning to Isabelle and smiling. 

Isabelle could only giggle. "I'm an ANIMAL mommy! RAWR!" Isabelle called out, releasing her legs and pretending to be a lion. Becky dropped her crayon and decided to play along, pretending her hands were claws and crawling around with Isabelle on the floor, Isabelle's diaper showing prominently through her leggings as she did. 

'Oh my! Well lets get all those animal behaviors out, since you both promised to be good girls for Melanie tonight, right?" 

Isabelle and Becky both stopped their game to nod and confirm they would be good. 

"Yes Jane," Becky said, as she stood up from playing the silly game and walked around the couch. "Jane! Jane!" Becky repeated, tugging at Jane's shirt, causing it to fall out of place. 

'What is it sweetie?" Jane responded patiently, as she backed Becky up and tried to fix her top.

"Look Jane!" Becky repeated, before reaching down with her hands and pulling her dress all the way up to her chest. "Look! I'm wearing big girl panties Jane!" Becky announced proudly, showing off her pink, cotton panties for the whole room, and perhaps even neighbors, to see. 

Jane, Sam, and Mel all laughed, as Mel approached Becky and pulled her dress back down. "We see Becky. But big girls don't pull their dresses up and show their panties to everyone," Mel said, flattening her dress out. "Even if we are all VERY proud of you." 

It had been a proud moment for Becky. She hadn't had an accident in over a week, and had fulfilled her end of the deal to earn her big girl panties. "I'm sure she will still have an accident here or there," Jess had explained to Jane after drop off that morning. "But I'm glad I'm down to just one in diapers full time." 

"That's amazing!" Jane had said. "Hopefully she can be a good influence for Isabelle. Belly is always wanting to be more like her. Hopefully, fingers crossed, this is something else she'll want to do." Jane had serious doubts they were close to that, however. Moreover, she wasn't sure she was quite ready for Belly to potty train either.

"Okay!" Jess announced, as she descended the stairs with John in tow, carrying Eric. "Let's get going! Becky, come say goodbye to mommy and daddy." Jess announced as her heels hit the ground floor. Sam stood up, picking up his cocktail and finishing it off, before going to the kitchen to set it in the sink. 

Becky ran over to her mom and dad, giving them each a hug as they bent over to say goodbye. John then handed Eric over to Mel. 

Isabelle ran over to her mom as well, just as Sam returned from the kitchen. With one free hand, Isabelle reached out to Sam as well, wanting to hug them both goodbye, just like Becky got to. Sam smiled a more meaningful smile than Isabelle could understand, before coming over and hugging Isabelle goodbye as well. 

"I've got them, don't worry." Mel said confidently.

"We know," Jane replied. "I set everything up in Becky's room so that its easy for you to just put her down later," Jane explained, as she stood up from hugging Isabelle. 

"When your friends come over later, just be sure to lock the door, okay?" Jess reminded Mel. Mel nodded, affirming she understood, and waved goodbye as the four parents left for their double date, closing the door behind them.

"Okay girls," Mel said enthusiastically, as she walked over to Eric's bouncer. "Let's get you fed dinner. It's almost 6:45 already. I'm sure you're starving!" Mel announced, as she set Eric down. Isabelle nodded. She was in fact, very hungry. 

The evening progressed much as Isabelle expected; wonderfully. After adjusting Eric's highchair for Isabelle, Mel hoisted Isabelle into place, locking the tray in front of her. The highchair was a little uncomfortable, and Isabelle felt herself wishing she was in her highchair from Lola's house. After setting down a bowl of tomato soup and grilled cheese for Becky at the table, Mel brought soup over to Isabelle in a smaller plastic bowl, and a grilled cheese that had already been cut up in a grid for her. 

Isabelle made quite the mess out of dinner, using her hands to dunk her grilled cheese pieces directly into her soup. It was, despite the mess, delicious, and Isabelle was content when Mel brought her another half of cut up sandwich to eat. Though Isabelle had no more soup in her bowl, there was plenty on her tray and face she happily used to dunk her extra half of sandwich in. 

After dinner, and after a thorough washing of Isabelle's face, Mel carried Isabelle into the living room, and sat her down on the couch. Becky took the opportunity to go to the potty on her own, proudly announcing so to Mel, Isabelle, and Eric. 'That's a big girl!" Mel said, applauding Becky as she returned explaining that she had washed her hands too all by herself. Isabelle clapped as well, as she obliviously released another warm stream of pee into her already soggy diaper. 

"Okay girls. I am going to put on a movie for you to watch before bed. I need you to be good while I take Eric upstairs and put him to bed, okay?" Isabelle and Becky nodded, as Mel cycled through Getflix until Becky and Isabelle both agreed on a movie about a green dog from New Zealand called "Greenie!" Isabelle hopped off the couch so she could lay on her stomach on the carpet, as Mel disappeared with Eric upstairs. 

Isabelle and Becky were lost in the fun of the movie, listening to Greenie's silly accent, and laughing at all the curious situations he got himself into. Isabelle let her head rest in her hands, as she planted her elbows into the carpet, and let her feel flail out behind her. It wasn't long before Mel returned, patting Isabelle on the head, before taking a spot next to Becky on the couch, who cuddled up against Mel. 

About halfway through the movie, Isabelle felt a familiar feeling, and didn't hesitate to resolve it. As Mel texted away on her phone, Isabelle lifted her butt up in the air slightly, her diaper already sagging as she did. Isabelle then gave her bowels a big push, releasing her poopy load into her diaper. Isabelle gave one last push, as her diaper expanded to its limits, and her poop spread out around her, before settling back down, spreading her legs further apart, and shifting to spread her mess around until Isabelle felt comfortable. 

Isabelle simply didn't think anything else of it, as she continued to watch the movie. But after a few minutes passed, Isabelle felt as something pressed against the bottom of her diaper. Isabelle turned to see Mel pressing her hand against her diaper, before leaning down and giving Isabelle's diaper a few sniffs. Isabelle turned back to watch the movie.

But the movie suddenly paused. Before Isabelle could react, she felt Mel's arms lift her up from under her armpits. "Come here you little stinker," Mel said playfully, as Mel set Isabelle down on her feet. "Let's go get you changed. It's already past time for bed anyway. It's almost 8:15." 

Isabelle was about to object when the three girls were distracted by a knock on the door. "Oh god. Of course. Perfect timing," Mel said, seemingly upset about something. "Come here sweetie," Mel said, picking Isabelle up, and wrapping her arms underneath Isabelle diaper, squelching the Mel further against her bottom. 'You too Becky, come with me," Mel said, offering Becky a hand as she walked alongside Mel toward the front door.

Isabelle wasn't sure who was at the door, but she didn't want to see anyone. Isabelle did her best to hide her face in Mel's neck, as she heard Mel unlock the door, coupled by some familiar voices she hadn't heard in some time. 

"Hey Mel!" Ras, called, as she stepped into the house, before continuing. "Oh my god who are THESE cuties!" Ras said, bending down to  greet Becky, who seemingly was as nervous as Isabelle, and retreated behind Mel's legs for safety.

"They are ADORABLE Mel," Isabelle heard a voice she knew belonged to Natalie add. Isabelle decided to peek out from Mel's neck, just enough to confirm it was, in fact, her old middle school friends that had arrived. 

"Oh don't worry about them," Mel explained, as Ras backed off sensing their apprehension. "It's past their bedtime, and this took the opportunity to wait until this precise moment to make something not so cute in her diaper for me," Mel added, shifting Isabelle up on her hip and caking the mess in her diaper around more.

"Why don't you go get the show set up in the basement," Mel suggested to her friends. "I'll be down in a minute. And can you grab the baby monitor over there? I have a third one upstairs too," Mel asked. as she watched Natalie grab it, and her friends headed down to the basement. 

"Alright girls. Let's go upstairs. Becky, are you still going to be my helper for this change?" Mel asked.

Becky was standing next to Mel, looking up at her babysitter's eyes with pride that she was being asked to help. "Yes! Of course!" Becky replied. Becky was confident she would be the best helper Mel had every known, in fact. 

"Great. Let's head up. But you have to be really quiet in Eric's room sweetie. He's sleeping."

Isabelle watched as Becky led the charge up the stairs, Mel in tow. With each step, Isabelle felt the mess in her diaper swish around more and more, until they reached Eric's room, Becky opening it ahead of them 

"Why don't you go get that stool over there so you can reach up here too and help me out." Isabelle heard Mel whisper to Becky, pointing at a nearby stool in Eric's bedroom. The wooden stool had Eri's name on it, in colorful, removable wooden blocks that spelled out his name.

'That kind of looks fun' Isabelle thought, wondering if her mom might get her one. Becky went and collected the stool, carrying it over to the changing table, before climbing on to. Isabelle was shocked at how tall Becky looked as Mel laid her down on the changing table. 

"Belly, stop squirming please," Mel whispered, as she took a nearby pacifier and pushed it into Isabelle's mouth, who suckled at it happily. "First," Mel whispered to Becky, "we need to take this stinky diaper off. Lucky for us, diapers have nice tear-able sides, so we just rip here," Mel said, as she ripped the far side of the diaper, "and here," as she repeated the process on the near side.

Mel then opened the diaper up, making an exaggerated blocking of her nose. "PEEE-YEWWW Belly! What a big poopy you made!" 

Isabelle only giggled in response.

"So next, were going to get some wipes. You can see how Belly squished her poopy around everywhere, so we're going to need quite a few. Can you open that package over there Becky, and hand me some wipes? Pull them out careful!" 

Becky nodded and reached under the table to the first shelf where Mel had gestured, pulling the whole wipe package out, and setting it at the end of the changing table. As soon as Becky opened it up, the room was filled with their scent, and Isabelle felt her whole body relax. "These smell like a baby," Becky whispered, as she pulled wipes out of the package and handed them to Mel. 

"Thanks! And yes they do! We have to clean this stinky girl up, and when were done, we put the wipes right here, in her dirty diaper, so we can throw them out nice an easy. I need a few more wipes here Belly......More please.......Yup even more" Mel said, as she took Isabelle's legs in one hand and pushed them back over Isabelle's head, revealing where Isabelle had caked the poop on her own underside. Becky complied happily, handing Mel scores of wipes by the end of it.

"Phew. Okay. Now we have to wrap this all up," Mel said, as she rolled the diaper up. "I'll take care of this part," Mel added, as she went over to the Diaper Djinn to dispose of the diaper. "Now we need a fresh diaper," Mel said. "Can you get me one from that shelf there?" Mel asked, pointing to a lower shelf. 

Becky nodded, and squatted down to grab Isabelle a fresh diaper. As she did, however, Becky couldn't help but notice that she had to use the toilet herself. Becky stopped, and stood up, turning to Mel. "Mel, I need to go potty. Can I go and come back after?"

Mel turned to Becky, proud that she maturely shared her needs. "No worries sweetie I am really proud of your for noticing in time. Why don't you go potty, and brush your teeth and get your PJs on, and I'll finish up here and meet you in your room. Okay?"

Becky nodded. She didn't want to have an accident in her big girl panties, and so quietly descended from her stool, leaving Mel to finish the job. "Here we go cutie, just the two of us now" Mel said, as she opened the diaper up, stretching it out, before sliding it under Isabelle's butt. "Butt up sweetie, Mel said.

It was hardly the first night diaper she had put on, but Mel was surprised at the size of this one. It wasn't too big for Isabelle. It was just incredibly thick. Mel chuckled at the bulk between Isabelle's legs as she powdered Isabelle's crotch, and taped the diaper shut. 

"All done sweetie," Mel said, as she pumped hand sanitizer into her own hands, before picking Isabelle up and carrying her out of the room quietly, leaving the pacifier in Isabelle's mouth. "You'll be okay in just your t-shirt and diaper tonight sweetie, until your mommy comes to get you later," Mel explained as she carried Isabelle into Becky's room.

Isabelle was a little surprised to see that the extra bed from underneath Becky's bed had not been pulled out and made for her. Instead, Isabelle saw a sort of make-shift crib. It looked softer and a little less permanent than the one in her room. Isabelle's eyes were curious as Mel set her down into the crib, finding that the mattress was still incredibly soft. 

"Your mommy set up this nice pack and play for you sweetie, see? Rabbity is even already here!" Mel explained happily, handing Isabelle her stuffie. Isabelle found herself laying down as Mel pulled a warm blanket over her head, suckling away at her pacifier. Isabelle never saw Becky come to bed; she fell asleep within seconds.

**********************

"............................................Shhhhh...........................my baby.................................."

".......................................good.....................................before bed............................."

"Thanks Mel. Sorry.......................................................................again...............safe."

"...................................pleasure...............................................precious......................"

".................John..............................................and your frineds home.........................."

Isabelle felt herself being picked up, but didn't bother to open her eyes. She was simply too tired.

"Let's go Sam.................................home............................................fed.............bed."

".............................to me.................................................goodnight guys.....again soon."
 

[Kahlez]

So good news i invested 2 minutes writing a program converting your text into mp3 files to listen while doing other stuff and being able to catch up. I really noticed how long your chapters by the length of the mp3s 

The chapters with the Lola weekend were for me the funniest ones so far.

I sadly cant really go though all the interesting stuff that happened in those 10+ chapters i missed but it made me curious how this will end. Isabelle regressed further than i thought she would and probably will need help if she ever is return to her old self. Right now there are so many options from here. Just growing up again, making new experience, meeting new friends and maybe not being the same Isabelle as teenager like she was before. Maybe thanks to her journal maybe they can work together and return her to her former self. Or she somehow will have the option to decide, i guess we will have to wait and see.

effec tof

 

[diaper24/7]

It seem she getting younger still as the story go on.