Tiana’s Tales

Mara hadn’t gotten out of her sweatpants in three days.

The curtains were half drawn, dishes lingered in the sink, and her once-beloved sketchbook sat untouched on the coffee table. Everything felt heavy lately—work expectations, family obligations, even simple decisions like what to eat for lunch. She felt stuck in molasses.

Daniel stood in the kitchen doorway watching her, worry etched across his face. He’d tried everything: weekend getaways, her favorite takeout, gentle talks late at night. Nothing seemed to reach her. What terrified him the most was her night terrors. Mara would toss and turn, cry and whine. Sometimes these terrors would be so bad that Mara would have accidents in bed. Daniel knew he had to do something.

That’s when Melinda, her therapist, suggested something unexpected.

“It’s called TinyTime Daycare,” Melinda had said gently during their session. “It’s a therapeutic recreation center for adults. Structured regression play. Supervised. Safe. It helps people step out of their stress identities and reconnect with joy.”

Mara had stared at her. “You’re suggesting I go to daycare?”

“I’m suggesting,” Melinda replied, smiling softly, “that you deserve a break from being responsible for everyone else.”

Now, standing in their bedroom, Daniel held the printed brochure in his hand.

“It’s not forever,” he told her carefully. “Just during the day. They have counselors. Structured activities. You don’t have to be strong there.”

Mara hugged her arms around herself. “I’m not a child.”

“I know,” he said quickly. “You’re my brilliant, capable, stubborn wife. But you’re exhausted. And maybe… maybe you don’t have to be the grown-up all the time.”

She hesitated.

“And you want my husband to act as my caregiver?”

Melinda sat there for a moment. “I believe this will help strengthen your intimate bond as husband and wife more than you think. Daniel said he was already interested in helping. You want help. Let’s just give it a try.”

Daniel approached slowly, crouching in front of her. “Let me help you try something different,” he said gently. “No pressure. If you hate it, we leave.”

Her eyes welled up. “What if it’s stupid?”

“Then we’ll laugh about it together.”

That earned the smallest flicker of a smile.

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

The next morning, Daniel was up bright and early. Not just for work, but optimistic and full of energy for the day and for his wife. Daniel slowly walked into the bedroom where Mara was still asleep in bed on her stomach. Daniel slowly rubbed her back to get her to wake up.

“Good morning my flower. Big day!”

Mara tossed and turned, finally turning on her back to lock eyes with Daniel.

“Do I have to go? I really don’t think it’s necessary.”

“Mara. Everything is settled. You know what Melinda said and I am not letting up on this one.”

Mara folded her arms and scrunched her nose. “No.”

“Little lady. If you keep this up, Daddy is going to have to do something he really doesn’t want to.”

The tone in his voice sent a shiver down her spine. It wasn’t cruel. It wasn’t loud. But it was steady. Confident. Different.

Reluctantly, Mara pushed the blankets off herself.

Daniel’s face changed instantly.

“Sweetheart… what happened?”

Confused, she looked down.

Her pajama shorts were soaked. Beneath her, the sheets were damp.

Her heart dropped.

Not again.

Tears filled her eyes almost immediately. Before she could crumble, Daniel wrapped his arms around her.

“It’s okay,” he murmured. “Please don’t cry. I’ve got you. Let’s get you cleaned up. A warm shower might help.”

The softness in his voice steadied her breathing.

He helped her out of bed and into the bathroom. He turned on the shower, steam beginning to rise gently into the air.

When he turned around, she stood there trying to cover herself, vulnerable and ashamed.

He stepped forward, gently lowering her hands.

“You’re beautiful,” he whispered, kissing her cheek. “I’ll be right outside.”

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

The peace didn’t last long.

“No! You can’t do this.”

Mara stood in the bedroom doorway wrapped in a towel, her wet hair clinging to her shoulders.

Daniel stood by the bed holding something in his hands.

“If you’re having accidents,” he said carefully, “the intake forms require protection.”

She stared at him in disbelief.

“This isn’t fair. I don’t mean to do those things.”

“I know you don’t,” he replied. “But we have to follow their rules.”

Her shoulders sagged. He looked tired, too. Not angry. Just worn down.

“Where did you even get that?”

“Melinda gave it to me.”

“And the two of you didn’t happens to think to consider me in this?”

“Excuse me. Who are the adults here? We are worried about you. We care about you and I don’t know how many more accidents our bed can take.”

Mara folded her arms. There was a long pause.

“Come here please.” Daniel pleaded as he walked over to her, grabbed her hand and tried to pull her into the bedroom.

Mara would budge.

“Come on. We are going to be late. And Daddy isn’t going to be very happy with you.”

Mara’s eyes widened- hearing him refer to himself in that way her kryptonite. She just melted. She so desperately just wanted to be “good.”

Daniel tried to pull her into the bedroom again.

“Let’s get dressed please.”

No movement.

“Fine, I am to countdown from 3 and if your little tush isn’t on that bed it’s going to bed red.”

There was a moment of silence. Daniel wouldn’t really do that to her. Would he?

“3….”

No movement.

“Mara. I mean it.” Daniel said with a very stern look. Daniel remained calm, steady.

“2…”

Mara slowly started making her way towards the bed; she didn’t dare take her eye off of him in fear that he might try to give her a little spank for the attitude. In a sarcastic manner, she ripped the towel off of herself and held it way from her, she extended her arm all the way out, dropped the towel on the floor, and kicked it to the side. She then laid down on the bed completely nude and just stared at the ceiling.

“There. Happy?”

Even when she bristled with sarcasm, he didn’t rise to it. He simply stayed firm.

The room fell silent.

“Are you done with your tantrum now?” Daniel asked unphased as he started to fluff the diaper and fill it with powder.

Before Mara could say a word Daniel grabbed her legs, lifted them, and… *SMACK*

One solid spank. Loud. Crisp.

“O-Owwwww!” Mara cried out. She was truly shocked. “Did you seriously just do that? What the hell.”

“Enough. Would you like another one? You want to have accidents like a toddler, whine like a toddler, throw tantrums like a toddler. Then guess what baby girl, you will be treated like one.” Daniel said sternly.

Mara sat in disbelief. The vulnerability of the moment settled over her. The quiet crinkling sound as he fastened everything into place made her flush deeply with embarrassment.

It felt strange. Restrictive. Exposed.

Daniel stepped back to assess. Daniel felt an overwhelming feeling he hadn’t experienced in a long time. Arousal. Watching his wife be so vulnerable, submissive.

“Open.”

She avoided his gaze. There was a pause.

“Mara, does Daddy have to spank you again?”

This time, Mara listened. She looked down and saw how truly little she looked compared to Daniel who was towering over her. In his hand, an adult sized pacifier. Mara shot up.

“NO WAY! You’re crazy!” Mara exclaimed as she tried to wiggle off the bed and get passed Daniel.

“Excuse me. Who do you think you’re talking to?” Daniel exclaimed while grabbing her arms and forcefully making her sit down back on the bed. “Open. Now.”

Mara had never seen Daniel like this. He was determined, dominant, and forceful. There were butterflies in her stomach. There was no way she could be aroused by this type of treatment.

“Mara. Please? For Daddy?” Mara looked up at him. She obeyed, letting him place the pacifier gently between her lips.

“There you go. That wasn’t so bad, now was it?” he murmured while leaning in and giving Mara a kiss on the cheek.

“Time to get dressed!” Daniel exclaimed. At this point, Mara was too tired to fight. Daniel helped her dress—something simple and playful: jean short overalls, a soft pink snap onesie, her hair parted into two loose pigtails, pink ruffle socks to match her onesie. Comfortable Mary Jane shoes replaced her usual flats.

“You look cute,” he said warmly, accompanied by a grin.

Mara rolled her eyes and just continued to suck on her paci. Mara was surprised at how relaxed and soothed she felt.

Daniel walked her over to the mirror in their bedroom. “Look at you! You are just… the cutest little girl. My little girl.” He added while patting her diapered bottom. She studied her reflection. The outline beneath the overalls was visible. There was no hiding it. You could clearly tell Mara was diapered through the shortalls. Mara hated to admit it, but she did look adorable. And hearing that she was “all his” made her heart just swell.

Daniel stepped away briefly and returned with a pink gift bag.

“I wasn’t sure if you’d earned this after your attitude this morning,” he teased lightly. “But I think you might need it.”

She sat on the floor and pulled out a soft stuffed bear with a ribbon tied around its neck.

Her fingers traced the bow absentmindedly.

Then she hugged it.

Tighter than she meant to.

“For moral support,” he said.

Her eyes filled again.

She stood and wrapped her arms around him.

“I am so sorry… Daniel,” she mumbled softly through her paci.

He tilted his head slightly.

She looked up at him, searching his face.

“Daddy,” she corrected quietly.

His expression softened instantly.

He kissed her nose gently, wiping her tears.

They didn’t break their gaze from one another; they held each other there in the quiet of their bedroom. It was only 9 a.m., but something had shifted.

For the first time in weeks, Mara didn’t feel completely alone inside her own mind.

And Daniel felt hope.

Morning light slipped through the kitchen blinds in soft, pale stripes. Kyle poured two mugs of coffee, setting one in front of Landon before leaning back against the counter. For a moment, neither spoke. The quiet felt intentional—comfortable.

Landon sat at the barstool, hands wrapped around the warm mug, though his mind was far from the kitchen. He kept replaying the night before with Cece—her sweetness, her shyness, the way she’d looked at him with a trust he hadn’t expected. It stirred feelings he hadn’t imagined he’d ever experience. The memory pulled him so deeply inward that he didn’t notice Kyle watching him until a voice cut through the haze.

“So,” Kyle said, taking a slow sip, “I’ve been thinking about today.”

Landon blinked back to the present. “Yes. I’ve been waiting to hear about your surprise. Should I be worried?”

A smirk tugged at the corner of Kyle’s mouth. “Depends on what you call worried. I’ve got an idea… something a little different.”

Landon leaned back, curiosity replacing his earlier distraction. “Different is good. I’m listening.”

Kyle set his mug down and lowered his voice, as if sharing a secret. “Okay… picture this: a carnival. Not just any carnival, though. This one is exclusive. Very exclusive. ABDL-friendly.”

Landon blinked. “Wait… what?”

Kyle grinned. “Yeah. Think games, lights, rides, music, treats—everything a little could dream of. A place where they can just be themselves, no stress, no rules, no judgment. And we get to be there too. Fully participating, fully fun. Trust me—it’s rare, but it exists.”

Slowly, a smile spread across Landon’s face. “Honestly… that sounds incredible. I just don’t know how Cece will feel. She’s still figuring herself out. Still a little shy with me.”

“That’s okay,” Kyle said gently. “We go slow. Let her take it in at her own pace. She’ll warm up once she sees the lights and the energy. And Rebecca? She’d be sprinting from booth to booth before we even got through the entrance.”

Landon laughed under his breath, the tension easing from his shoulders. “Yeah… I can picture that. And I think Cece would like it too. I’m just—” He paused, searching for the right words. “I just want to do everything right and be everything right for her.”

“You will,” Kyle said with quiet certainty. “And I’ll help. You’re both new to this, but you’re good together. Sometimes you just need a little nudge out of your comfort zones.”

The two men fell into easy conversation for a few more minutes before Kyle glanced toward the hallway.

“Come on,” he said, pushing off the counter. “Let’s check on them.”

Landon stood, following him. The house was still and warm, the only sound the soft creak of the floorboards beneath their steps as they headed down the hall.

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

They peeked into the nursery, and there it was: the giant crib, pitch black room filled with only the tiniest light from the nightlight, quiet little lullabies still resonating throughout the nursery, a safe little fortress for two tiny dreamers. Rebecca and Cece lay curled up inside, blankets tucked snugly around them. Their faces were peaceful, relaxed, the kind of sleep that comes from feeling safe, loved, and completely cared for. Rebecca’s chest rose and fell gently under her blanket, her tiny socks peeking out from under the covers. Cece lay near the corner of the crib, clutching a soft plush toy, her little face serene in sleep.

Landon crouched near the crib, gazing down at Cece. “She looks so tiny in there. And trusting.”

“She trusts you,” Kyle replied softly. “And that’s all that matters. Today… today’s going to be something special.”

They lingered for a few more moments, savoring the quiet and watching the two littles breathe evenly in the giant crib. Then, exchanging a knowing glance, they quietly retreated, ready to plan the day and gently wake their little ones when the time was right.

Kyle leaned down slightly, brushing a hand softly over Rebecca’s hair. “Hey, tiny mouse,” he murmured. “Time to wake up. We’ve got a very special day planned.”

Rebecca stirred immediately, a little giggle escaping as her eyes fluttered open. “Mmmm… morning, Daddy,” she mumbled, snuggling briefly into Kyle’s hand before sitting up, rubbing her eyes. Her little space shifted easily, playful yet trusting, the comfort between them effortless.

“Morning, sweetheart,” Kyle whispered, tugging the blanket gently around her shoulders. “Are you ready for an adventure?”

Rebecca’s little eyes sparkled. “Yes! What is it?!” She bounced slightly in the crib, careful not to jostle Cece too much.

“Patience,” Kyle teased, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead.

Across the crib, Cece shifted slightly, slowly waking to Landon’s presence. Her big eyes blinked open, paci still bobbing in her mouth, small fingers clutching the plush toy tighter. “H-hello?” she whispered through her paci, her voice soft, unsure.

Landon crouched low, keeping his tone gentle and calm. “Hi, little one. It’s morning. Time to get up… we have a fun day ahead.”

Cece blinked up at him, hesitant, and gave a tiny nod. She curled into her plush toy, hugging it to her chest. Landon’s heart melted a little. Every movement, every expression of trust, felt like a tiny spark he hadn’t expected.

“You’re okay,” he reassured her quietly.

Cece slowly shifted closer to the crib’s edge. “Wanna… hold your hand?” she asked softly, a shy little spark of connection forming.

Landon smiled, extending his hand gently into the crib. “Of course,” he said softly. “Come on.”

Cece’s tiny fingers wrapped around his, a small warmth spreading between them. Landon felt the first real pull of their dynamic—new, delicate, and incredibly tender.

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

After a few quiet minutes watching the littles in the giant crib, Kyle and Landon exchanged a glance.

“Before we go anywhere,” Kyle whispered, crouching near the crib, “we should… probably check you little ones… just to be sure.”

Landon nodded, gently lifting the blankets. Kyle’s fingers brushed the front of Rebecca’s diaper gently. “Hmm…” he murmured, a soft smile tugging at his lips. “Looks like someone had a little accident overnight.”

Rebecca’s cheeks flushed slightly, but she gave a small nod. “Sowwy…”

Kyle smiled reassuringly. “It’s okay, tiny mouse. Everyone has accidents sometimes. We’ll fix it up, no worries.” He gave her a playful pat on her little bum.

Across the crib, Cece shifted slightly, her tiny fingers gripping her plush toy tighter. Landon’s hands were gentle as he checked her diaper as well. “Looks like someone else had a little accident too,” he murmured softly.

Cece’s eyes went wide, a small blush spreading across her cheeks. “I… I’m sowwy…”

“You don’t need to be,” Landon said quietly, brushing a hand over her hair. “It’s okay. We’ll take care of it together.”

Kyle picked Rebecca up carefully, holding her close. “Come on, tiny mouse. Let’s get you changed in the bedroom.”

Rebecca clung to him a little, half asleep, half excited. “Okay… Daddy…”

Meanwhile, Landon stayed in the nursery with Cece. “Alright, little one,” he whispered, kneeling beside her. “Time to get you fresh and comfy.”

Cece’s little fingers gripped Landon’s hands as he guided her gently through the process. “I… I’m nervous,” she admitted softly, all while still the paci was in her mouth.

“That’s fine,” Landon said soothingly. “I’ll go slow. You don’t have to worry about anything.”

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

In Kyle and Rebecca’s private space, Kyle spread out the changing supplies. “We’re going to get you all fresh and ready,” he said warmly, smiling down at her. He held her close, brushing stray strands of hair from her face. “And today… I want you to be like Cece’s big sister, okay? Look out for her- make sure she has fun.”

Rebecca’s eyes widened slightly at the idea. “Me? Big Sister?” she asked softly, still half in her little space.

Kyle nodded. “Yeah. You’re a role model today, tiny mouse. I know you can do it.”

Rebecca’s chest puffed slightly with pride, and she giggled. “Okay, Daddy… I’ll try!”

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

In the nursery, Landon worked carefully with Cece, was squirming, her little brows pinched together in that way that told Landon she was this close to fussing. He leaned in with a warm smile, brushing a curl away from her cheek.

“Hey, hey… look at me for a second,” he murmured, his voice soft enough to settle her shoulders. “Can I see that cute smile of yours?”

She kept her pacifier between her lips, eyes big and uncertain. Landon chuckled quietly.

“Mm‑mm,” he teased gently, tapping the paci with one finger. “I need to hear you. Let me borrow this for a minute.”

He eased it from her mouth with slow, careful hands, giving her plenty of time to follow along. Cece blinked up at him, lips forming a tiny pout.

“There it is,” he whispered. “Your little face. I love seeing you.”

To distract her, he lifted her hand and tapped each of her fingers lightly.

“Think you can help me count? Just to ten. I know you can.”

She made a soft sound, half‑whine, half‑question.

“Numbers are hard today?” he asked with a playful tilt of his head. “That’s okay. I’ll help.”

He held up one finger.

“One,” he said slowly.

Cece echoed a tiny, breathy “One.”

“That’s my girl,” he praised, lifting a second finger. “Two.”

She hesitated, then whispered, “Two.”

Landon grinned, the kind that made his eyes crinkle.

“See? You’re doing amazing. Let’s keep going together.”

He guided her through each number, his voice steady and encouraging, celebrating every little attempt she made. By the time they reached ten, Cece was smiling — a real one, soft and proud — and Landon brushed her cheek with his thumb.

“There it is,” he said warmly. “That’s the smile I wanted. All fresh, all comfy. Good job, little one.”

Cece’s eyes sparkled, a tiny smile tugging at her lips. “I… I feel better. Umm about last night. I’m so sorry if that made you uncomfortable.” she admitted softly.

Landon, playing dumb like he is waiting for her to elaborate. With hesitation she expands on the fact that it was when she called him daddy. He reassured her, told her not to worry, that it felt right with her. Natural. And it made him feel an overwhelming peace.

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

Both girls were freshly changed and ready to start the day, and the nursery felt unusually peaceful. Kyle and Landon stood shoulder‑to‑shoulder inside the closet, staring at the rows of tiny outfits with identical expressions of uncertainty. Picking clothes was… not their strongest skill. They exchanged a quiet, resigned smile, as if silently agreeing that this was harder than it looked.

Behind them, Rebecca and Cece giggled at the sight.

“It’s okay,” Rebecca assured. “We’ll help each other. You two can get ready while we do outfits and hair.”

Cece nodded shyly, glancing at Landon for a moment before looking away. Rebecca squeezed her hand.

Rebecca’s outfit came together first — cute but practical: jean short overalls, a short‑sleeved ruffle shirt with a tiny duck stitched on the chest, white ruffle socks, and her beloved Dr. Martens Mary Janes.

Cece’s look was just as sweet: a pink overall dress, a simple white onesie with crotch snaps, pink frill socks, and matching pink Crocs that made her smile a little.

Rebecca took charge with practiced confidence. She helped Cece pick out two matching hair ties, then brushed and styled her hair into two half‑up, half‑down pigtails. As she worked, the girls whispered about the surprise planned for the day. Rebecca was buzzing with excitement. Cece, on the other hand, felt her stomach flutter — everything with Landon was still so new, and surprises made her nervous.

Trying to distract herself, Cece asked softly, “Do you need help with your hair?”

Rebecca laughed, shaking her head. “You’re too little for that,” she teased, grabbing her own brush. “But you can help me pick a headband.”

That, Cece could do. She sifted through the collection, choosing one that matched Rebecca’s outfit perfectly. Rebecca beamed at her choice, slipping it on with a proud little nod.

“See?” she said. “You helped.”

And for the first time that morning, Cece felt a little steadier.

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

Once their outfits were on, the two littles stood in the nursery hand‑in‑hand. Rebecca bounced lightly on her toes, her morning energy fully awake. She spun toward the dresser, rummaging until she found a paci and clip that matched Cece’s pink outfit perfectly. With a proud little flourish, she clipped it to the front of Cece’s overall dress and gently guided the pacifier to her lips.

Then she tugged Cece toward the mirror.

“Look,” Rebecca said, tilting her head with a grin. “We both look so cute… and little. But you look littler.”

Cece puffed out a tiny protest around her paci. “Hey— not true.”

Rebecca snorted a laugh. “You even sound like one.” She softened immediately, nudging Cece’s nose with her fingertip. “It’s okay. I still love you.”

Cece’s cheeks warmed a rosy pink, her eyes dropping shyly.

Rebecca’s attention drifted to the bookshelf in the corner, stacked with games, puzzles, and picture books. “Ooh! You wanna do a puzzle?”

Before Cece could answer, Rebecca grabbed her hand and tugged her toward the shelf. She let go only long enough to pull out a giant toddler puzzle box. The picture on the front showed a huge pink castle surrounded by fairy‑tale characters. Rebecca gasped dramatically, opened the box, and dumped the oversized pieces onto the floor with a delighted giggle.

She plopped down, the crinkle from her padding loud and unmistakable. Looking up at Cece, she patted the spot beside her.

“Come on! It’ll be fun.”

Still shy, Cece lowered herself to the floor. Her own padding was impossible to hide under the snug white onesie, and she instinctively tried to adjust her dress to cover it. Rebecca caught the movement immediately.

“Cece,” she said gently but firmly, pulling Cece’s hands away. “You’re not an adult. Stop trying to sit all proper like one. You don’t have to do that here.”

Cece met her eyes for a second before looking down at the soft bulge in her lap. Her feelings were too big, too tangled to explain. The only thing grounding her was the steady suck of her paci. And deep down, she just wanted… Da— Landon.

Rebecca noticed the shift in her expression and softened. She released Cece’s hands and held out a puzzle piece.

“Here, Cece. You try.”

Cece hesitated, then took the piece. She studied the shapes, trying to match it to the picture. After a few attempts—and a little guidance from Rebecca—it finally clicked into place.

Rebecca clapped, beaming. “There you go! That’s awesome. Let’s do another.”

The girls settled into a rhythm, piece after piece, the world shrinking to just the puzzle and their quiet chatter. It felt like only moments had passed when footsteps sounded in the hallway. Neither girl looked up, too focused on their castle.

The footsteps stopped just outside the nursery.

Then came a soft, pointed cough.

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

“Excuse me, little ones,” Kyle said gently from the doorway.

Rebecca and Cece both looked up. Kyle stood beside Landon — but Cece barely registered anything except him. Her breath caught. Even in simple clothes, Landon looked impossibly handsome. Her shy smile curled behind her paci, and the faint scent of his cologne drifted toward her, making her heart flutter.

Landon stepped forward, kneeling beside her with a softness that made her chest tighten.

“You look so cute,” he murmured, brushing a bit of her dress aside to reveal the thick padding underneath. His expression warmed, almost tender, as if the sight made something inside him melt.

On the other side, Kyle knelt beside Rebecca, adjusting her overall straps and brushing a finger over the ruffles.

“Perfect, tiny mouse,” he said, and Rebecca’s cheeks flushed pink.

“Daddy, look!” she chirped, pointing at the puzzle. “Isn’t it pretty? And we’re so close to being done!”

Kyle smiled and gave her padded bottom a gentle pat.

“It’s beautiful, sweetheart. But I don’t know if we can finish it right now. We have to go to the surprise, remember?”

Rebecca froze — then gasped as the memory hit her.

“Oh yeah! We gotta go, Cece!”

Kyle rose slowly, catching Rebecca’s hand before she could bolt out the door. He looked between both girls, his voice warm but steady.

“But you two must be hungry. Before our adventure, let’s fill our tummies. Okay?”

Rebecca and Cece exchanged a glance, then nodded together. Kyle and Landon shared a relieved smile — no fussing, no whining, just agreement. A small victory.

Landon stood, towering gently over Cece, and extended his hand.

“Shall we go, little one?”

As soon as Cece stood up, still holding Landon’s hand, she looked up at him with wide eyes. Her paci bobbed slightly as she whispered around it, “Uppies…?”

The word came out small and hopeful.

Landon’s expression softened instantly. “Of course,” he murmured.

He slid one arm under her knees and the other behind her back, lifting her with slow, steady care. Cece instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist, clinging to him as if he were the safest place in the world. Her arms looped around his shoulders, and she tucked her face into the warm crook of his neck, still gently sucking her paci.

Landon held her securely, one hand supporting her from underneath, the other resting across her back. He swayed just a little, a natural, soothing motion.

“There you go,” he whispered, his voice low and reassuring. “Got you.”

Cece melted against him, her earlier shyness dissolving into quiet comfort. The faint scent of his cologne surrounded her, grounding her even more. She didn’t say anything else — she didn’t need to. Her soft breaths against his neck said enough.

Kyle and Rebecca watched from the doorway, their smiles widening at the sight. The new bond forming between Cece and Landon wasn’t loud or dramatic — it was gentle, steady, and incredibly sweet.

Just as they were about to follow, Kyle leaned down and whispered into Rebecca’s ear,

“Remember, tiny mouse… keep an eye on her for me,” Kyle murmured with a knowing little smirk, his voice low enough for only Rebecca to hear. “Daddy will make sure you’re rewarded later.”

Rebecca’s eyes lit up immediately, her whole posture brightening.

“I will, Daddy,” she promised, nodding eagerly.

CAMI’S POINT OF VIEW

My breath caught before I could even form a thought. His words—officially be your daddy—

they echoed inside me like a soft bell, ringing through every fear, every hope, every trembling piece of me I’d tried so hard to keep controlled. I stared at him, my fingers clutching the delicate paci, the rest of me frozen.

Cami: “Mark… I—”

My voice cracked. I hated that. I hated how vulnerable I sounded, how small. But Mark’s eyes softened when he heard it, and instead of reacting with impatience or pressing me, he leaned forward, elbows resting on the table, hands open and gentle.

Mark: “Cami, sweetheart… breathe.”

I didn’t realize I’d been holding my breath until the word “breathe” actually made my lungs hurt. I inhaled shakily. Exhaled. His smile grew just a little—warm, proud, encouraging.

Mark: “It’s okay to be overwhelmed. Talk to me. Whatever you’re feeling, I want to hear it.”

I looked down at the paci again. The colors shimmered softly under the patio lights. It wasn’t just cute—it was symbolic. Vulnerable. Personal. A choice. A promise.

My throat tightened.

Cami: “I’m scared, Mark.”

His expression changed instantly—not shocked, not disappointed… just concerned. Gentle. He straightened in his chair.

Mark: “Scared of me?”

Cami: “No. God, no. Not you.”

I shook my head quickly, fingers tightening around the box.

“I’m scared of… ruining this. Of being too much. Or not enough. Of letting myself get attached and then it all falls apart.”

Mark sat back in his chair for a moment, studying me with that intense, quiet focus he always had in the office. The kind that made you feel seen, even when you didn’t want to be.

Mark: “Cami… you’re already attached. And so am I.”

My face burned, but he continued before I could react.

Mark: “You think I spent all day setting this up because I wasn’t sure? You think I’d ask you something this important if I didn’t know exactly what I wanted?”

My chest tightened again, but it wasn’t fear this time. It was something warmer. Softer. Safer.

Cami: “I just… I don’t want to disappoint you.”

He stood, slowly circling the table until he was beside me. Then he knelt—actually knelt—by my chair. My breath caught.

Mark: “Cami, look at me.”

I did.

Mark: “You could never disappoint me by being yourself.”

The words hit me so hard I had to blink away the sudden blur in my vision. Mark reached up and brushed his thumb under my eye before a tear could fall.

Mark: “This—” he tapped the edge of the paci box “—isn’t about changing you. Or pushing you. It’s about honoring what’s already there. What we already share.”

I swallowed hard.

Cami: “You really want that? With me?”

He didn’t hesitate.

Mark: “I want you. All of you. Your strength. Your stubbornness. Your softness. Your little side. Your grown-up side. Every part.”

My heart cracked open, just a little.

He gently took the paci from my trembling hands, set it back in the box, and then took both of my hands in his.

Mark: “I’m not asking for perfection. I’m asking for honesty, trust, and a chance to build something real with you. Something steady. Something we choose every day.”

I stared at him, at the sincerity in his eyes, the gentleness in his voice, the steadiness of his hands.

Something inside me finally—finally—let go.

Cami: “Yes.”

His eyes brightened.

Mark: “Yes?”

I exhaled shakily, but this time it felt different. Lighter. Braver.

Cami: “Yes, Mark. I… I want that. I want you as my… daddy.”

The smile that spread across his face wasn’t playful this time. It wasn’t teasing or smug. It was soft. Meaningful. Full.

He leaned forward and pressed a slow, warm kiss to my forehead, and everything in me melted.

Mark (whispering): “Thank you, sweetheart.”

He stood and offered his hand. I placed mine in his without thinking, and he pulled me up from the chair and into his arms. I felt him breathe in against my hair, and the sound—relief, contentment—made my chest ache in the best way.

Mark: “Now,” he murmured softly, leaning back just enough to look into my eyes, “let’s eat before everything gets cold. Then, after dinner… we can take things at your pace. Talk. Rest. Or just be together. Whatever you need.”

He kissed my cheek again and guided me back toward my chair. I felt lighter than I had in days. Maybe weeks.

Maybe ever.

As I sat down and he took his seat across from me again, one thought whispered through my mind—quiet but certain:

Paul had once been the model of punctuality—always impeccably dressed in tailored suits, favoring navy and charcoal with crisp white shirts. Polished shoes, a subtle luxury watch, and a neatly folded pocket square completed his professional look. His posture was upright and commanding, projecting confidence without arrogance. But lately, something had shifted. He was in a funk. Meetings slipped by, deadlines blurred, and his once-sharp reputation dulled into a haze of untimely arrivals.

Kelly Blackman—the new boss. Tall, with a poised stance that commanded attention without arrogance. Dark, expressive eyes that seemed to notice everything, paired with a subtle smile that suggested she knew more than she let on. Her style was modern yet timeless—sleek black coats, tailored trousers, and a hint of silver jewelry that caught the light. She noticed Paul’s decline immediately. While others whispered excuses for him, Kelly wasn’t impressed. She believed in accountability, but she also believed in creativity.

So one morning, after Paul stumbled into the office twenty minutes late with coffee stains on his tie, coworkers whispered: “What happened to Paul?”

Kelly’s voice rang out across the office: “Paul. My office. Now.”

Paul shuffled in, bracing himself for a lecture. He didn’t dare make eye contact with Kelly. He could feel her intense energy without even looking at her. Kelly gestured to a chair, and instead, he froze.

Kelly’s office had transformed. On the desk sat an adult-sized baby bottle filled with juice, with an oversized pacifier gleaming beside it. In the corner, a beanbag chair, silicone blocks, and a giant stuffed bear in a tie waited.

Paul blinked in disbelief and slowly sat in the chair. “Uh… what’s all this?”

“Since you can’t seem to manage your schedule like an adult,” Kelly continued, “we’ll try something different. Today, you’re Baby Paul.”

Paul felt his heart flutter. He gulped, wiping his sweaty palms on his suit pants. “Baby… Paul?”

“Yes,” Kelly said, handing him the pacifier while walking behind her desk to sit in her chair. “Babies don’t know how to tell time. They nap when they want, eat when they want, and cry when things don’t go their way. Sound familiar?”

The office walls muffled Paul’s embarrassed laugh as he looked down at the pacifier, then glanced at Kelly as she leaned back in her chair.

“You’ll be in here until you can explain how you’ll grow out of this funk. No excuses. No whining. When you’re ready to act like a grown-up again, you can leave. Go ahead. Put the pacifier in.”

Paul sat, slowly raising his hand to put the pacifier in his mouth, realizing the absurdity of it all. But beneath the humor was a sting of truth. He had been acting like a baby—untimely, careless, and expecting others to tolerate it.

Kelly opened a few desk drawers while Paul sat there, suckling his pacifier. She made eye contact with him.

“Your pacifier is your thinking tool. You don’t get to talk until you’re ready to act like an adult again.”

Then she gave him a smirk and held up an adult diaper.

“Look at you, Baby Paul,” she commented as Paul blushed uncontrollably.

She rose from her desk with the diaper, baby powder, and a changing mat in hand. Kneeling beside her desk, she laid out the mat.

“Come lay down, please.”

Paul was mortified. He removed the pacifier.

“Kelly, you’ve got to be joking.”

Kelly sat for a moment, fluffing out the diaper.

“Paul, does it look like I’m joking? You have approximately five seconds to get over here if you want to keep your job—and if you don’t want this secret meeting getting out.”

Paul, trying to sound confident, said, “It’s my word against yours, Kelly.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that, Paul,” she quickly remarked, gesturing to the blinking camera in the corner of the room.

Paul gulped. His face grew pale, and he suddenly became speechless.

---

Within minutes, Paul was stripped of all his adulthood. Kelly secured the last tape of the fluffy white diaper while Paul stared up at the ceiling, sucking his pacifier and trying not to sob.

“There we go! All done,” she remarked brightly, helping him sit up. The crinkle of the diaper was unmistakable. Paul could barely close his legs. The padding felt odd, yet surprisingly soft and comforting.

She booped his nose.

“Arms up!”

She slipped a light blue adult-sized onesie over his hands, helped him lie back down, and buttoned the snaps.

“Are you thirsty, sweet boy?” Kelly asked, grabbing the bottle. She removed the pacifier and slowly slipped the nipple into his mouth, signaling him to drink.

Paul gulped the juice, staring at the ceiling. As he drank, he felt his brain relax. After a few moments, he was suddenly more at ease—less embarrassed. How was that even possible? Kelly’s voice was soothing, almost comforting.

“Paul? Do you wanna play?” Kelly asked, gesturing to the beanbag and blocks.

She removed the bottle as he finished the last sip, then placed the pacifier back in his mouth.

Paul looked at the beanbag and blocks, then back at Kelly.

“Go on,” she gestured again. “Crawl on over there.”

“Crawl?” Paul mumbled through the pacifier.

“Of course, silly! Let me see that crawl.”

Paul sulked, then slowly crawled his way over to the blocks.

“What a cutie pie,” Kelly commented as she watched this grown man behave like an infant.

Paul sat back on his padded bottom and began stacking blocks into a crooked tower. At first, he hated it. But as the minutes passed, he relaxed. The counting, building, and knocking over towers with Kelly’s absurd encouragement made him laugh. He felt lighter, less burdened by the stress he’d been carrying.

---

You wouldn’t have believed that this “baby” giggling at animal noises was once a dominant businessman. Kelly couldn’t believe how quickly Paul became less resistant. They had so much fun that hours slipped by. Kelly glanced at the clock, then back at Paul, who was now yawning.

“Oh no. Sleepy baby, huh? Building towers is hard work,” she teased.

Paul rubbed his eyes and nodded hesitantly.

“Well, let’s get you situated,” she said, preparing a comfy corner and signaling Paul to lie down. A very tired Paul complied without hesitation.

---

Paul woke groggy, tossing and turning. He suddenly remembered his day with Kelly. The pacifier was still in his mouth. He opened his eyes and saw Kelly at her desk, quietly flipping through files. Then he remembered the diaper between his legs. Reaching down, he realized it was soaked.

Paul lay there in disbelief. He rubbed the front and was surprised at the aroused feelings that stirred.

Kelly, noticing, smirked.

“Hi Paul. Awww, did someone have an accident?” she asked, walking over to comfort him.

“Tsk, tsk, Paul. Babies don’t do naughty things like that.”

Paul’s face flushed red. He quickly moved his hand and sat up.

“There’s no way I could’ve… or would’ve…” he muttered.

“I guess it’s a good thing you’re wearing a diaper, huh?” she remarked, cradling him as he slowly lay back in her arms. Paul couldn’t describe the feeling—he just wanted to be held. Kelly rocked him gently.

“Why don’t we get you changed, huh sweetheart?” she asked, continuing to comfort him as he sucked his pacifier.

---

By the end of the day, Kelly helped Paul back into his suit, slipping the pants over the fresh diaper.

“This is one last reminder of your lesson today. Hopefully you learned something,” she said, giving him a pat on his padded bum.

“And you can keep that,” she added with a smirk and a wink, signaling to the pacifier still in his mouth.

“I wouldn’t dare take that from such a cutie.”

Paul blushed.

As he walked out of Kelly’s office, Paul slipped the pacifier into his suit pocket. But the crinkle of the diaper and the waddle in his walk betrayed him. He kept thinking about the day. Was it possible he actually enjoyed the “punishment”? What did it mean? Had Kelly done something like this before?

Kelly leaned back in her chair, satisfied.

“Sometimes discipline isn’t about scolding. It’s about making the lesson unforgettable.”

---

The next day, Paul arrived ten minutes early. Suit pressed, tie straight, coffee in hand. Something was different. As he turned away to put something in his office, Kelly noticed the very visible diaper beneath his suit.

Is he really diapered again? she thought. So much for it being a punishment.

She quickly looked away before Paul returned.

“Good morning, Kelly,” Paul greeted, slowly approaching her doorway.

Kelly smirked.

“Good morning, Paul. You look refreshed.”

Paul paused, sipping his coffee. A light blush crossed his cheeks.

“Yeah, I definitely feel it.”

Before the Party ✨

Mason sat on the edge of his bed, pacifier bobbing as he crossed his arms. His cheeks puffed out in a pout.

“Mommy, I don’t wanna go,” he mumbled. “Everyone’s gonna make fun of me.”

Renae knelt down in front of him, her holiday dress shimmering as she smoothed his hair back. Her voice was calm but firm.

“Mason,” she said gently, “we talked about this. You’re coming with me tonight. There will be other littles there, just like you. You won’t be alone.”

Mason shook his head, kicking his feet against the blanket. “But what if they laugh at me?”

Renae’s eyes softened, but her tone stayed steady. “Sweetheart, Mommy wouldn’t take you somewhere you weren’t safe. I promise you’ll have fun. And if anyone says something unkind, I’ll be right there. You’ll see—there will be friends waiting to play with you.”

She held out her hand. “Now, let’s get your coat on. We’re going.”

Mason hesitated, then slid off the bed, clutching her hand. His pacifier bobbed as he whispered, “Okay, Mommy.”

Renae kissed his forehead. “That’s my brave boy.”

—-

Arriving 🚗

The snow fell in soft spirals as Renae guided Mason up the walkway to her friends’ home. She could tell Mason was nervous, hesitant, and also pretty deep into his headspace. But Renae knew that Mason would have the best time. It was very rare that Mason and Renae would go out like this, especially to another little/caregiver gathering. But Renae knew connections and friendships in community is exactly what they needed. The windows glowed with golden light, laughter spilling faintly into the night. Renae adjusted her coat, her holiday dress shimmering beneath, and kissed Mason’s cheek. He was bundled in his little outfit, pacifier clipped neatly to his shirt, his wide eyes reflecting the twinkle of Christmas lights.

Inside, warmth enveloped them. Couples greeted Renae with hugs and compliments, their voices rising above the hum of carols.

“Renae, right? You look stunning,” one familiar acquaintance said, smiling at Mason. “And this little man—he’s stealing the show already.”

Renae laughed softly. “This here is Mason. He’s my date tonight. The best one I could ask for.” She gave Mason a wink and a gentle pat to his diapered bottom.

---

Meeting Lily 🎀

Near the tree, Mason spotted Lily, another little one in a red velvet dress. Her beautiful red hair was pulled back into two buns, her pacifier clipped neatly to the collar of her dress. She toddled over, and even with all the background chatter, you could hear the crinkles as she walked, clutching a block in her hand.

“Trade?” she asked, holding it out.

Mason blinked, then offered his rattle. The two exchanged toys with giggles, their simple act of sharing drawing smiles from the adults nearby.

Renae crouched down, brushing Mason’s hair back. “Look at you two,” she said warmly. “Already learning how to share.”

Lily and Mason exchanged glances and blushed.

---

Playtime 🧸

The older littles dashed through the living room, their voices rising above the carols. Mason tried to keep up, stumbling and plopping down with a bounce. His pacifier bobbed as he looked around, cheeks flushed.

The older boys laughed. “Mason’s so silly! He can’t keep up playing superheroes with us,” one teased.

Mason looked down at the ground, tears filling his eyes. Then one boy stepped out of the group—brown hair, green eyes, and a bit smaller than the rest.

“Hey! You guys need to be nice. You’re going to make him sad,” he exclaimed.

He rushed to Mason’s side. “Hey buddy, it’s okay! I’ll be your friend. Let me go find your mommy, okay? You hang onto this.” He handed Mason a superhero figure and ruffled his hair before running through the crowd.

Moments later, Renae knelt beside Mason, smoothing his shirt. “You’re alright, sweetheart.”

Mason peeked up and noticed the boy standing behind Mommy. He knelt down next to Renae.

“Hi! My name is Todd. I’m dis many years old,” he exclaimed, holding up four fingers. “Do you wanna play wiff me?”

Mason’s face lit up at the thought of having another older little to play with. It made him feel special.

Renae smiled at Mason’s reaction as he nodded “yes” to Todd. “That would be so sweet of you, Todd,” she commented. “How about after Mason’s diaper change we come find you, yeah?” She smiled as she looked down at Mason’s pants and saw that his diaper was extremely swollen.

---

The Caregivers’ Circle ❤️

Meanwhile, the little boy who had teased Mason was quickly pulled aside by his mommy. She had overheard his unkind words and gave him a firm look.

“That wasn’t nice,” she said gently but firmly. “We don’t make fun of our friends.” The little boy tried to glance down at the floor, annoyed he continued playing, “Excuse me sir. Look at mommy.” She comment as she lifted his chin to meet her gaze.

The boy’s cheeks flushed as his mommy guided him to the corner of the room. He stood there quietly, arms folded, listening to the carols while the other littles played. Every so often, he glanced back at Mason and Todd, clearly wishing he could join them.

After a few minutes, his mommy knelt down beside him. “Are you ready to say sorry?” she asked. The boy nodded, eyes downcast.

He walked over to Mason, clutching his hands together. “I’m sorry for teasing you,” he mumbled.

Mason blinked, then gave a shy smile around his pacifier. Renae rubbed Mason’s back proudly. “That was very kind of you to apologize,” she said warmly.

The boy’s mommy smiled too, grateful for the lesson learned. He then ran off to play with the other little boys now onto the next game of cops and robbers.

Later, Renae joined the other couples in the kitchen. The air smelled of mulled cider and pine. She sipped from her glass, her laughter mingling with the hum of conversation.

Mason played with Todd and then crawled back and forth between the parents, proudly showing off his toys.

“He’s the life of the party,” a friend remarked.

Renae smiled, her eyes following Mason. “He’s got more energy than all of us combined.”

---

Secret Santa 🎅🏻

The hosts gathered everyone near the tree. “Alright everyone! Secret Santa!” Wrapping paper rustled as gifts were passed around.

Renae helped Mason tear open a package, revealing a soft stuffed reindeer with a red scarf. Mason squealed, hugging it tightly.

“That’s so sweet, baby!” Renae cooed. “That was so nice of you, Lily! I think Mason loves it. Mason, can you say thank you?”

Mason blushed with embarrassment from behind the reindeer. “Tank chu, Lily!” he said quietly behind his pacifier.

Renae then pulled out Mason’s Secret Santa gift and handed it to Lily’s mommy, Emmy. “Here, Emmy! Mason was Lily’s Secret Santa.”

It didn’t take long for Lily to open the wrapping paper. She smiled and looked at Mason and Renae before glancing back down at a beautiful doll. Lily toddled over with her new doll, and the two sat side by side, showing off their treasures.

Renae leaned down, whispering, “That reindeer’s going to be your new best friend, isn’t it?” Mason babbled happily, clutching it close.

—-

Winding Down 📚

Before the night drew to a close, one of the hosts gathered all the littles near the glowing tree. The room hushed as he opened a large, worn book and began to read “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

The littles sat in a cozy circle, pacifiers bobbing, stuffed animals clutched tight, eyes wide with wonder. Mason nestled against Renae’s shoulder, listening as the familiar words painted pictures of stockings, sleigh bells, and reindeer flying through the snowy sky. Lily hugged her new doll close, Todd’s head rested sleepily against his Daddy, and the older littles leaned in, captivated by the rhythm of the tale.

The adults smiled, watching the children’s faces glow in the soft light of the tree. The story’s cadence wrapped the room in calm, a perfect lullaby to end the evening.

The day was golden with late-summer light when Tessa and Bradley stepped off the tram and into Everest Grove—a theme park designed not just for fun, but for emotional renewal. Everest Grove was known all around the United States as the first kink-friendly (ABDL-focused) theme park and gated resort. For them, it was a world of curiosity. They were newer to this kind of journey, tentatively exploring softer, more vulnerable dynamics in their relationship. Everything from the whimsical signage to the gentle lullaby music humming through the trees seemed designed to put guests at ease. Tessa and Bradley had heard such amazing things about Everest Grove—whispers in online forums, glowing stories from friends who’d come back changed, lighter somehow. And despite their instinct to keep that side of them neatly folded, hidden away behind practiced normalcy… they knew, deep down, that wasn’t what they truly needed anymore.

Tessa had spent years trying to intellectualize the part of her that craved softness—not just affection, but the freedom to be small and silly and unguarded. It wasn’t shame, exactly. More like self-protection wearing the mask of logic. Bradley had been more open, but still cautious. He worried about doing it wrong, about making her feel seen in the wrong way.

But something about Everest Grove—the intention of it, the care written into its design—made them both feel like maybe this wouldn’t be a place they had to explain themselves. Maybe they could just be.

As they walked past the front gate hand in hand, a soft breeze drifted by, carrying the scent of wildflowers and sugar cookies. Tessa took a deep breath and whispered, “I think I’m nervous.”

Bradley squeezed her hand gently. “Me too. But maybe…nervous is okay.”

Waiting just inside the entrance were Avery and Jonah—seasoned visitors to the park, and close friends who had extended the invitation. Where Tessa and Bradley held onto each other’s hands with cautious excitement, Avery and Jonah stood steady and open. Jonah’s arm rested protectively around Avery’s shoulders, and their laughter came easily.

“You made it,” Avery beamed, stepping forward and folding Tessa into a warm hug. “Ready to be spoiled a little?”

Bradley chuckled nervously. “That’s…kind of why we’re here.”

Truthfully, both he and Tessa had spent most of the tram ride in silence, fingers laced tightly, sharing sidelong glances that said, Is this okay? Are we okay? Vulnerability had always lived somewhere deep inside them, behind practiced smiles and well-worn armor. Letting someone else see even a sliver of that—especially in a place so earnestly designed for emotional openness—felt like standing in the sun without sunglasses.

As they passed through the gates, the park unfolded like a dream—quiet nooks draped in fairy lights, cozy corners with storybook readings, and “nurture zones” where trusted companions could take on caring, grounding roles in full consent and safety.

As the group trekked deeper into Everest Grove, Tessa and Bradley found themselves absorbing every nuance around them. It was like walking through a living tapestry of care, rules, joy, boundaries—all the things they’d only dared to imagine behind closed doors.

The littles from the carnival game bounced past in a blur of pastel and excitement, hugging their new plushies with absolute, unfiltered glee. Because of their thick and visible padding they tried their best to run toward their caregivers, but it turned into a waddled run. Their Mommy and Daddy took the time to look at each of their plushies they selected and gave them the biggest smile.

Witnessing that pure moment, made something stir deep in Tessa’s chest. She gripped Bradley’s arm, not out of anxiety this time, but something closer to longing.

Then came the sharp contrast: a little girl frozen in place, shoulders trembling as tears streamed down her cheeks. Her Daddy stayed seated but grounded—his hands firm yet gentle on her arms, eyes steady and calm as he spoke. It wasn’t anger Tessa saw. It was presence—the kind that said, I care about you. I want you safe.

She didn’t realize she was holding her breath until the girl gave a small nod and climbed into her Daddy’s lap, burying her face in his shirt. The scene unraveled something in Bradley too. That much Tessa could see in how quiet he’d gone, hands stuffed deep into his pants pockets, his jaw set like he was holding back more than just words.

At a nearby table, a little boy sat across from his Mommy, face smeared with chocolate as they took turns feeding each other spoonfuls of a sundae. His laughter was uninhibited, filling the air like music that needed no permission to be joyful.

For Tessa and Bradley, the world no longer looked foreign—it looked frighteningly intimate. A mirror. One filled not just with what they wanted, but what they feared they might never learn how to ask for.

Avery noticed the shift in their expressions and fell into step beside them. “You’re seeing it now,” she said softly. “The heart of it.”

Tessa nodded slowly. “It’s…a lot.”

“It always is,” Jonah added gently. “But you don’t have to carry it all at once. Just what feels safe right now.”

Throughout the day, Avery and Jonah offered gentle guidance. When Tessa hesitated near the plush ‘quiet meadow’ pods designed for naps and storytime, it was Avery who softly said, “You don’t have to be ready. Just know it’s here for you.”

And when Bradley admitted during lunch that he didn’t always know how to let go of being in control, Jonah shared his own first time at the Grove—when he’d cried, not from sadness, but from feeling seen.

What made the day special wasn’t the park’s novelty—it was the warmth in Avery’s voice when she brushed Tessa’s hair back after a carousel ride, and the way Jonah instinctively placed a comforting hand on Bradley’s back when he grew quiet in the crowd.

By sunset, the four of them sat under a canopy of lanterns, sharing strawberry lemonade and stories about what “care” really looked like for each of them.

For Tessa and Bradley, the Grove wasn’t a fantasy. It was a threshold—a place where it became okay to ask for gentleness, to receive it without earning it, and to feel safe enough to grow.

Ava lay on the changing table, her breathing uneven, eyes red-rimmed, fingers fidgeting with the hem of her pink dress. Theresa approached closer beside Avia, trying to radiate calm, while Johnny stood nearby, arms crossed, watching carefully.

Theresa spoke first, her voice soft but steady. “Ava… we don’t want to fight with you. We’re not trying to take over your life or force you into anything. We just… we see how much you’ve been carrying. And we want to help. Here’s the deal, we are giving you the opportunity to be the little baby you want to be. You become a part of our family, and you don’t have to worry about your adult stresses anymore. The hurt, the stress, the sorrow, all gone.”

Ava rolled her eyes, scoffing quietly. “Really? Just like that you willingly expect me to magically join your dynamic here. After kidnapping me? That’s your big plan?”

Johnny took a careful step closer. “We see that you’ve been struggling, and we want to give you a choice to let someone care for you. To feel safe again.”

Ava let out a dry laugh, tilting her head. “Safe? Hah. Safe doesn’t mean you get to tell me what to do or how to act. I don’t need… I don’t need anyone deciding I’m supposed to be… some little girl or whatever you’re imagining.”

Theresa nodded slowly. “We know that. We aren’t trying to decide who you are. We just… want to give you a chance to step out of all the pressure, even just a little. We know your secret. We know what you want. We are giving you the opportunity.”

Ava smirked, a hint of defiance creeping in. “That’s cute. And what if I don’t want your help? What if I just… don’t?”

Johnny crouched down to her level, keeping his voice calm. “You should know something, Ava… we’ve been waiting for someone like you. Someone strong, smart, stubborn… someone who needs this, even if they don’t want to admit it. We’re not letting you go that easily.”

Ava’s eyes widened slightly, and she blinked at him, part incredulous, part annoyed. “Not letting me go that easily? Wow. How reassuring. Or terrifying. Take your pick.”

“Listen little lady. I don’t care for your attitude.” Johnny snapped.

Theresa reached out, but kept her distance. “We’re not trying to trap you, Ava. We just know that what we have… what we offer… could be exactly what you need.”

Ava huffed, rolling her eyes. As she tried to cross her arms over her chest, but couldn’t suddenly remember the restraints holding her in place on the changing table. “Why would I even trust you? You just spent… what, all morning acting like you had the right to boss me around? Who exactly do you people think you are?”

Johnny’s jaw tightened, but he stayed calm. “We made mistakes. We pushed too hard, and we know it. But sometimes, a little bit of tough love, goes a long way. Sometimes, littles like you… need this.

Ava leaned back slightly, rolling her eyes again. “Tempting… but also kind of scary. You really think you can make me believe I’m safe? After everything?”

Theresa softened her voice even more. “We know it won’t be instant. Trust is built slowly, Ava. You’ve been hurt before, and it makes sense that you’d resist. But…”

Ava’s gaze flicked down at the pastel pink of her dress, the soft fabric strangely comforting and humiliating at the same time. She muttered under her breath, barely audible and interrupting Theresa, “I don’t even know if I want this...”

Johnny gave a small, encouraging nod. “Consider it.”

Ava’s lips pressed together in a thin line, her small hands fidgeting, her mind a whirlwind of resistance and longing. Ava stared at the ceiling, her expression softening slightly despite the sass lingering in her eyes. Then something unexpected caught her attention: a faint, high-pitched cry coming from Johnny’s pocket.

She squinted, her brow furrowing. “What… what’s that?” she whispered.

Johnny’s hand went to his pocket, pressing a small button on a baby monitor clipped to his belt. The cries grew louder, unmistakably the sound of someone small, whimpering, and almost babbling incoherently.

Ava’s eyes went wide in disbelief. “Wait… is that… another… grown… person? That’s… a man?”

Theresa gave a small, knowing smile. “Yes. Another little one. Part of our family. He’s… learning to let go and trust, just like you’re being asked to.”

Ava’s jaw dropped, her hand going to her mouth. “No… no way. You… you actually… turned a grown man into… that? And he… he’s… crying… babbling like a baby?!”

Johnny nodded, his voice gentle. “Well, it look sometime. But, eventually the little one caved in. He chose this, just like we’re asking you to consider. He needed someone to care for him… and we were there. That’s all we want for you too, Ava: a chance to feel safe.”

Ava leaned back, stunned, processing the sound, the reality of it. Her eyes flicked between Theresa and Johnny. “I… I don’t even know what to say.”

Theresa reached out her hand again. And Ava dodged her touch, “Don’t you dare touch me” Ava hissed.

Theresa then added, “You don’t have to say anything yet. Just know… we’ve been waiting for someone like you, Ava. And we’re not letting you go that easily. Let’s maybe let you lay here for a minute.”

Johnny then motioned towards the paci gag to place it back into Ava’s mouth. “Here you go little one. Daddy’s got you.” That phrase made Ava’s experience a flash of mixed feelings. A shiver ran down here spine. A good shiver? Or bad? Ava couldn’t tell.

Mia and Alex had been part of the AB/DL community for some time. What began as Alex’s personal kink gradually evolved into a shared expression between them. It all started when Alex opened up to Mia about his interests. He saw in her a natural childlike wonder—curious, trusting, and vulnerable—and he felt an instinctive desire to nurture and care for her not only as a partner, but as her Daddy.

Their journey wasn’t seamless; they faced challenges as they navigated this new dynamic. But over the years, it settled into a rhythm that felt natural and fulfilling. They discovered that their lifestyle brought deeper emotional connection, vulnerability, and stronger communication into their marriage. Eager to continue exploring, they remained active within the community.

So when they heard about a secluded AB/DL park nestled deep in the mountains—just an hour’s drive away—they knew it was something they had to experience.

The drive was nothing short of breathtaking, filled with winding roads and sweeping views. But for Alex, the most captivating sight was in his rearview mirror: Mia, wide-eyed and giggling from her car seat in the back, paci in her mouth and bear tucked tightly in her arms. She gazed out the window, humming along to Disney tunes, completely immersed in the wonder of the ride.

When they arrived, the park buzzed with the laughter of littles and the rhythmic creak of swing chains cutting through the summer air. Dappled sunlight danced through the leaves, casting playful shadows on the patchy grass below. Among the blur of bouncing balls and skinned knees, little Mia reigned in her kingdom of imagination. With a plastic tiara nestled crookedly in her curls and shoes lighting up with every stomp, she was a pirate, a queen, and an astronaut—sometimes all at once.

Alex, sat nearby on the bench with a coffee in hand, one eye on Mia and the other pretending to read a paperback. But when you’re a lonesome daddy of a little like Mia—curious, fast, fearless—you develop a sixth sense for danger before it shows up.

And then it did.

Mia raced toward the slide ladder, her arms out like airplane wings. She climbed with her usual gusto, but her foot slipped on the last rung. Time bent for a moment, and Alex was already on his feet as she tumbled sideways and landed hard against the mulch. The sound wasn’t loud—a soft, startled thump—but her cries sliced through the calm like a siren.

He was kneeling beside her in seconds. “Hey, hey, little rocket,” he said gently, brushing dirt from her cheek. “That was a wild landing.”

Mia sat frozen, her tiny hands clenched around a scraped knee with a smear of blood—more dramatic in her eyes than the injury itself. As Alex knelt beside her, he noticed her dress had bunched up in the fall, revealing her damp pull-up beneath the ruffles. His heart ached. Before she could draw another breath between sobs, he gathered her into his arms, her body trembling against his chest. She buried her face in him, hiccupping softly, each shuddering breath tugging at his own. Alex quickly reached into his pocket and pulled out Mia’s paci. He then gently glided the paci into her mouth to help sooth her.

He then kissed her forehead and brushed a few strands of her hair out of her face. “Let’s go home, baby. We’ll clean you up and fix you right up.”

The ride home was quiet, except for the soft hum of the air conditioning, the little sniffles from the back seat, followed by a few suckles from her paci. Alex kept glancing in the mirror, offering soft smiles. “You’re still the bravest girl I know,” he told her, like a secret just for them.

Once home, he ran a warm bath while Mia sat on the counter, legs swinging, still wrapped in her favorite park blanket—purple, with faded cartoon bears. He cleaned the scrape with practiced care, blowing gently after dabbing it with ointment. Her eyes were glassy but brave, watching his face instead of her knee.

After her bath, she reached for him with outstretched arms. He lifted her, swaddled her in a towel, and carried her to her room where the sunlight softened into gold through the curtains. Together, they picked a soft cotton dress and one of her favorite diapers—a safety net she still needed on long days. As he helped her into it, his hands were patient and gentle.

“There we go,” he said, pulling the dress over her head. “Battle wounds cleaned, warrior suited up.”

Mia gave him a half-smile, then curled into his lap on the couch. He turned on her favorite cartoon, but she mostly just watched him. He tucked a strand of damp hair behind her ear and offered her a strawberry from the little plate he’d brought out.

“I think,” he said, offering a dramatic pause, “we should write a new rule: No flying too close to the sun when wearing sparkly sneakers.”

That got a giggle, the first real one since the slide.