Sarah's New Ring

Part: 1

“I can’t believe this all of my friends are going to parties, sunbathing at the beach, and going out clubbing for their summer break, but what have I been doing?” A tall slender woman of twenty-five years with soft green eyes, long auburn hair, and a smile that has long faded as the list of her chores has steadily grown. “I can’t wait to finally finish my degree, and move out of here.” She thought her smile returning until she could here the sound of her mother shouting for her from the attic. “Seriously, why now of all times to start deep cleaning the house.” Sarah thought before throwing down the broom she had been using to sweep her family’s modest one car garage.

“Sarah, once you’ve finished in the garage come help me with some of these boxes in the attic!” Her mother shouted as Sarah’s eyes slowly drifted to her car parked in the driveway.

“I’ve earned a break.” Sarah thought with a huff as she grabbed her purse from the counter, hopped over the discarded broom, and slipped into her car just as her mother could be seen entering the garage carrying a dusty cardboard box.

“Be back later Mom!” Sarah shouted as she started her car, and pulled out of the drive before her mother had even recognized what she was doing. “Sorry Mom, but I’ve got better things to do then spend my last summer before graduation dusting, scrubbing, and organizing every surface of the house.” Sarah muttered turning on the radio, and enjoying the freedom she now had in front of her.

For the next thirty minutes Sarah drove through the sleepy little small town she called home while looking for anything that would be more fun than carrying old junk out of the attic when suddenly she slowed her car to a stop along a side street she doesn’t normally use. “Second Time Around.” Sarah read on a large sign with bold black letters. “Maybe some kind of secondhand or antique shop?” Sarah thought as she spotted what looked to be several old pieces of furniture being displayed in a large set of windows at the front of the store. “Finally, Sarah thought with a smile as she pulled into an empty parking space in front the shop, snatched her purse from the passenger seat, and sauntered through an old wooden door causing a chime to announce her presence.

“Help you with something deary?” A kindly mature woman with piercing blue eyes and a kind face said raising her eyes from the pages of a large book she had been reading.

“No thanks, I’m just browsing.” Sarah said with a smile as she began browsing a shelf that looked to be filled with small wooden statuettes. “These look kind of cool and very detailed.” Sarah whispered just as a long yawn escaped her.

“Sounds like someone hasn’t been getting much rest.” The Shopkeeper said as her eyes quickly darted from her book to Sarah who was now holding a small cat statue in her hand.

“You’ve got that right.” Sarah said with a laugh placing the statuette back on the shelf, and wandering towards the counter where the Shopkeeper sat on several thick books that had been stacked on to a wooden stool that Sarah assumed was so that she would be able to see over the counter to watch shoppers without having to stand. “I’m going to be starting my senior year of college in a few weeks, and I’ve spent my entire summer break I’ve been helping my mom remodel, clean, and organize our house.” Sarah said hanging her head low while leaning on the wooden counter top beside an antique cash register. “I just want to take a break, and spend the last days of summer having fun.” Sarah moaned loudly while the Shopkeeper gingerly inserted a bookmark between into her book before snapping it shut.

“Ah, yes I can see how that would be exhausting.” The old Shopkeeper said hopping from her seat, and landing on the floor before walking around the counter while flashing her bright yet crooked smile. “But you’re in luck my dear.” The woman spoke while gliding towards a large display case in the center of a store, and pointed her short wrinkled index finger at a golden ring with a dark purple gem.

Curious by the woman’s unwavering certainty that this ring will help her with her problems at home she lowered herself down in front of the display case looking directly at the elegant looking ring. “And how will this help me exactly?” Sarah considered for a moment before speaking again. “What am I supposed to do with it?” Sarah asked still curious to what the Shopkeeper had said, but also weary that she is being setup to buy some gaudy piece of jewelry she doesn’t need.

“My dear this isn’t just any ring.” The Shopkeeper said while sliding the display open, and setting the ring on top of the translucent glass top of the display allowing Sarah a better look at the ring. “This ring is very special, and it has certain qualities that some would consider magical.” The Shopkeeper said before pausing to consider Sarah’s surprised expression.

“Yeah, sure it is.” Sarah said dismissively after a moment before the Shopkeeper gently lifted the ring into her hands, and held it in front of Sarah.

“If you don’t believe me then try it for yourself.” The Shopkeeper said with a warm smile. “Buy this ring from me today, and if you are not completely satisfied by the time I close my shop tomorrow evening I will offer you a full refund plus an additional ten percent off your next purchase.”

“Ten percent?” Sarah asked with a smile on her face as she let out a small laugh. “So, your telling me that if I am not completely satisfied with this ring I’ll get my money back, and a discount on anything else in here that I might want?” Sarah asked causing the Shopkeeper to nod while smiling openly.

“That’s exactly right my dear. Just bring it back to me, and I’ll be sure to help you find something that will serve your needs better.”

“How exactly am I supposed to use it, and what exactly does it do?” Sarah asked picking up the small case the ring was tucked into.

“It is quite simple my dear.” The woman said taking the ring from Sarah’s hands while gently snapping its case closed with a loud snap. “Before placing this ring on your finger simply imagine the age and maturity level you would like to be viewed and treated as by the people around you, and then place the ring on your finger. Once this has been done your body will transformed and changed allowing those around you to perceive you exactly the way you had envisioned.” The Shopkeeper said ignoring Sarah’s loud laughter.

“Are you serious? I’d have to be a moron to believe something like that!” Sarah shouted while laughing so hard tears began running down her cheeks. “Oh Miss thank you so much. I really needed that.” Sarah said after finally calming herself down, and once again meeting the Shopkeeper’s gaze.

“As I said try it for yourself, and if it doesn’t work exactly as I described it then please simply return it to me.”

“Right, so I just buy this today, and you guarantee you’ll refund my money if I am not completely satisfied.” Sarah said reaching into her purse for her personal credit card.

“Plus a ten percent discount on anything else is my shop.” She quickly added with a smile taking Sarah’s card into her hand.

“Yeah, sure ring it up, but just expect that I’ll be back first thing tomorrow morning.” Sarah said with a small laugh as her credit card, receipt, and a small brown paper sack were placed into her hand.

“Before you go a word of caution!” The Shopkeeper shouted raising her voice in an attempt to recapture Sarah’s attention. “Always ensure that you return to your original self before using the ring or you may lose the way you are now forever.” She shouted running around the counter in an attempt to stop Sarah before she left.

“Yeah, sure thing. Have a nice night.” Sarah quickly added without looking back to the Shopkeeper behind her, and climbing back into her car while checking the time on her phone. “How was I in there for an hour?” Sarah thought quickly glancing at the time on her phone, and noticing her mother had sent her several text messages asking her to pick up groceries from the store. “It’d be great if she would stop expecting me to do everything.” Sarah considered while glancing at the paper bag beside her. “Couldn't hurt to at least try it.” Sarah thought with a sigh as she made the drive back to her home.

Once Sarah had finally made it home she discovered that her mother wasn’t outside the house or in the garage causing Sarah to smile to herself slyly as she parked her car, walked through the open garage door, and slipped into the house without making so much as a sound until she had gotten back to her room where she quickly retrieved the ring from the brown paper back, removed the ring from its case, and quietly whispered. “I’m exactly the way I was when I was three years old.” Sarah whispered as she slid the ring on her finger just as the purple gem on the ring began to glow brightly causing Sarah’s entire body to become uncomfortably warm for several seconds. “What’s happening!” Sarah shouted as she fell to the floor causing her door to open abruptly.

“Honey are you alright!” Her mother said quickly rushing to Sarah’s side, and helped her back to her feet. “You’re not hurt are you baby girl?” She said quickly while checking Sarah for any signs of injury or sickness.

“Mommy, I’m fine.” Sarah shouted feeling her face becoming red. “Wait, what did I just say?” Sarah though with a hint of panic as Sarah began looking around her room finding that everything around her seemed to be twice as tall as it normally was, but most alarming her room looked nothing like it had just moments ago. Where her bed sat now stood a crib, and her desk was replaced by a large changing table, and all throughout the room she the contents of her shelves were replaced by toys and objects that one would expect to see in a child’s nursery.

“That’s good precious.” Sarah’s Mom whispered as she began kissing Sarah repeatedly on her cheeks while cradling Sarah in her arms. “Do you need to go potty?” She asked warmly taking Sarah into the bathroom, pulling down a pull up, and gently sat Sarah on the edge of the toilet seat while holding on to Sarah’s waist and shoulder.

“What are you doing Mommy!” Sarah shouted as she tried to pull herself away from her mother’s firm as they held her in place on the toilet until she could hear herself releasing starting to pee.

“Such a big girl you are!” Sarah’s Mom cheered as she helped Sarah off of the toilet, and proceeded to wipe Sarah’s hands with a moist cloth. “You haven’t had an accident all week!” She continued to cheer lifting Sarah into her arms allowing her to see that Sarah see that she no longer looked like the mature woman she been just moments ago. “I look like a toddler.” Sarah whispered as she realized her hair had been styled into two long braids, her clothes were replaced with a bright pink t-shirt, a pull up. “Did the ring actually work?” Sarah wondered to herself as she gently brought her hand to her face to find that the ring was no longer on her finger. “Where did it go? Did it fall off?” Sarah thought in a panic beginning to squirm in her mother’s arms.

“Hey, take it easy little girl.” Sarah’s Mom said with a chuckle as she shifted Sarah into a sitting position on her hips forcing Sarah to wrap her arms around her mother’s waist. “Someone is getting fussy. Must be time for someone’s dinner.” Sarah’s Mom said opening the bathroom door, and proceeded to carry Sarah out of the bathroom while Sarah’s eyes frantically scanned the floor of the bathroom until she spotted the ring laying on the ground beneath the toilet.

“Mommy...I mean Mom put me down!” Sarah shouted pointing to the ring on the ground. “Put me down!” She pleaded loudly as her mother closed the door behind her. “No, I got to go in there!” Sarah shouted pleadingly as she was carried away from the hallway, and into the living room where a large playpen filled with toys, stuffed animals, and dolls she had not seen in years sat waiting for her.

“Wait here for just a minute.” Sarah’s Mom said with a smile gently placing Sarah into the playpen. “Mommy will go make you something special for dinner.” She said warmly while giving Sarah a gentle kiss on her forehead.

“No Mom let me out of here!” Sarah shrieked causing Sarah to try jumping along the edge of her padded prison in an attempt to pull herself to freedom. “Mommy I need my ring!” Sarah shouted loudly as she continued to try and free herself, and retrieve her ring from the bathroom. “Let me out!” Sarah shouted after several failed attempt to escape causing her to fall on her padded bottom.

Part: 2

“Alright, just stay calm.” Sarah thought taking a seat in the corner of her playpen on top of a large teddy bear that was slightly taller than she was right now, and she silently glanced around the living room recognizing a lot of the furniture her mother had purchased over the course of the last couple of years. However, to her surprise mixed in among everything she recognized were some of her old toys in the corner of the living room beside a small colorful bookshelf and activity table she was certain was up in the attic until earlier today. “So, the ring actually works.” Sarah thought with a smile before quickly glancing towards the hallway that led to the bathroom. “And if it is real that means I can turn myself back to normal.” Sarah continued as she picked up a small stuffed bunny that say beside her, and took it into her arms with a tight squeeze. “I just have to grab my ring from the bathroom, and then I can change myself back.” Sarah muttered to herself as her mother stepped back into the room, and leaned on the top of the playpen with a large smile.

“Is my girl having some nice quiet play time?” Sarah’s Mom said looking down at Sarah with her bright green eyes, and long auburn hair that was styled exactly the way Sarah remembered it being styled when she was a child. “Are you ready for dinner or do you want to play for a little longer?” She asked gently sliding her manicured fingers along the lining of the playpen’s mesh surface.

However, before Sarah could even say a word she heard her stomach let out a loud growl that made her blush slightly as she raised her head to meet her mother’s soft eyes and warm smile. “I’m hungry Mom.” Sarah said while starting to push herself up into a standing position. “What’s for dinner?” Sarah asked as casually as she was able to causing her mother to smile brightly.

“Oh my baby girl is so smart.” She exclaimed scooping Sarah into her arms. “Only three and already talking like such a big girl.” She whispered squeezing Sarah tightly while quickly adding. “Mommy made your favorite since you’ve been such a big girl about suing the potty this week.” She said carrying Sarah into the kitchen, and prepared to sit Sarah inside her old highchair.

“Mom, can I please sit at the table?” Sarah asked innocently secretly hoping that she could create an opportunity to make her escape into the bathroom, and retrieve her ring from the bathroom floor.

For a moment Sarah’s Mom stood silently with one hand holding the large plastic tray before finally sliding the tray back into place, and pulling out a chair at the table. “Hmm, I think we’ll need something for you to sit on. Wait here precious, and Mommy will be right back.” Her mother said with a smile while she gently placed Sarah on the floor, and quickly went into the garage.

“OK.” Sarah said innocently standing beside the chair her mother had slid out for her until her mother had completely vanished behind the garage door. “I’ve got to hurry.” Sarah said in a panic as she quickly darted through the living room, and into the hallway as she managed to leap up reaching the doorknob of the bathroom door, and turned the handle using both of her hands. “I made it!” Sarah shouted triumphantly when suddenly she heard her mother calling to her from the living room. “I need to potty!” Sarah shouted quickly darting across the tile flooring of the bathroom while lunging for the golden band of her ring laying just beneath the bowl of the toilet.

“You need to potty?” Sarah’s Mom said now standing inside the bathroom’s doorway just as Sarah fell to the floor, and scooping the ring into her hands. “Baby girl be careful! You almost bumped your head!” Sarah’s Mom shouted quickly stepping into the bathroom and scooping Sarah from the floor.

“Please, return me back to normal.” Sarah whispered as she held the ring in one hand, and attempted to place it on her finger when suddenly Sarah saw her mother’s fingers plucking the ring right out of her hand. “Hey, that’s mine! Give it back Mom!” Sarah shouted angrily turning to look her Mom in the eyes.

“I was wondering where this went.” Sarah’s Mom said with a smile as she took the ring.

“No, Mom that’s mine!” Sarah shouted while frantically pulling at her Mom’s hand in hopes that she could free the ring.

“No no that’s Mommy’s ring.” Her mother gently corrected setting the ring on the edge of the sink beside a large bar of soap outside of Sarah’s grasp causing Sarah to scream frantically.

“No Mom I bought that ring today! Its mine! Really it is!” Sarah screamed when suddenly she became aware of a warm sensation running down her legs that silenced her immediately, and caused her to glance down at her pull up.

“Aw Baby Girl.” Sarah’s Mom said with a sigh shifting Sarah around in her arms before gently placing Sarah on her hip causing Sarah's wet pull up to squish loudly. “Well, little girl it looks like we still have a few kinks to work out, but I’m still proud of how hard you have been trying to use the potty this week.” Sarah’s Mom said with a gentle smile while Sarah gazed at purple gem of her ring as it sparkled brightly. “Come on let’s get you into some clean pants.” Sarah’s Mom said while carrying Sarah back into her bedroom.

“No, my ring!” Sarah shouted loudly as tears began to trickle down her face. “Please, Mom give me that ring.” Sarah shouted pleadingly as she was gently laid on to the padded surface of her old changing table. “Mom.” Sarah managed to say before she was silenced by her mother inserting a pacifier into her mouth.

Instinctively Sarah attempted to remove the pacifier from her mouth, but as her fingers began to wrap around the pacifier to pull it out she could feel a gentle yet from smack from her mother's hand blocking her ability to take the pacifier out of her mouth.

“That’s just about enough of that young lady.” Sarah’s Mom said releasing a loud sigh while she gingerly pulled off Sarah’s drenched pull up. “I think someone is getting grumpy because her tummy is hungry, so let’s go get you some yummy dinner.” Sarah’s Mom said her smile returning to her face while lifting Sarah into her arms once Sarah had been placed into a clean pull up. “Is that what baby’s problem is.” She said raising the pitch of her voice while giving Sarah a gentle tickle on her stomach forcing Sarah to laugh from behind her pacifier as she was taken back into the kitchen, and inserted Sarah into the highchair before she even realize it had happened.

“Wait, I want to sit at the table.” Sarah mumbled around the pacifier still in her mouth.

“Maybe tomorrow.” Sarah’s Mom said placing the highchair’s plastic tray back into place trapping Sarah in her seat.

“Ok.” Sarah mumbled realizing that for the moment she wasn’t going anywhere as her mother pulled a chair from the table in front of her while setting a large plate of spaghetti between the two of them. “I don’t think I can eat all of this Sarah thought looking at the size of the plate before her as her mother took a fork, and proceeded to push a small pile of noodles and meat sauce on to the surface of the tray.

“Eat up sweetie.” Sarah’s Mom said while pulling the pacifier from Sarah’s mouth.

“Can I have a fork?” Sarah asked weakly looking at the small pile before her.

“Sure you can.” Sarah’s Mom said while placing a bright pink fork in front of Sarah. “Here you are Baby Girl.” Sarah’s Mom said retaking her seat in front of Sarah who began making several attempts to scoop a bite of spaghetti into her mouth. “Want some help sweetie?” Sarah’s Mom said with a small chuckle as a glob of noodles fell off of Sarah’s fork, and on to her shirt leaving a bright red stain as the noodles fell into the seat of Sarah’s high chair.

“No, I got it..” Sarah said with a determined tone as she began collecting another bite of spaghetti on to her fork, and slowly inserted it to her mouth.

“You did it! Looks at my girl eating her dinner all by herself.” Sarah’s Mom cheered while snapping several pictures of Sarah eating another bite with her her smartphone. “Your Auntie is going to love this!” Sarah’s Mom mumbled placing her plate on to the table behind her.

“She’s going to send those to Aunt Karen? Will she see me as a baby too?” Karen wondered as she attempted to take another bite of her food while dropping it into her lap causing it to lad on the stained padding of her pull up.

“I can see someone is getting just as much in her lap as she is getting into her tummy.” Sarah’s Mom said taking the fork from Sarah’s hand, and setting it on the table. “Here, let Mommy help.” Sarah’s Mom said warmly bringing a small bite of spaghetti to Sarah’s mouth. "Open for the train." Sarah's Mom said while making train noises with her mouth.

“Fine.” Sarah said with a small wine as she swallowed her pride, and allowed her mother to begin feeding her at a much faster pace than she had been able to do on her own.

“Isn’t this yummy?” Sarah’s Mom whispered after placing a bite into her own mouth, and then placing a bite into Sarah’s mouth. “Last bite is all yours Baby Girl.”

“Finally.” Sarah thought to herself as her mother began cleaning her face with a moist cloth, and then once she was clean her Mother lifted Sarah from the highchair.

“Come along sweetie. Let's go take a nice long bath until we're both squeaky clean.” Her mother said giddily, but Sarah didn't here her as she had already resumed thinking about the best way to get her ring back without her mother stopping her again.

Part: 3

“In we go!” Sarah’s Mom exclaimed as she lowered herself and a now flailing Sarah into the pool of warm water gathered in their bathtub. “Oh isn’t this lovely.” She said with a smile sinking deeply into the water while allowing Sarah to sit between her legs.

Despite the indignation Sarah felt from sitting with her mother in the bathtub she couldn’t help, but let out a small sigh as the warmth of the water that surrounded her gently eased a tension in her mind that she had been feeling. “So warm.” Sarah considered for a moment closing her eyes, and laying back against her mother’s soft and warm stomach.

“That’s Mommy’s girl.” Sarah’s Mom whispered while quietly running her finger’s through Sarah’s hair while humming soothingly giving Sarah time to think.

“The ring’s still on the back of the bathroom sink.” Sarah considered slightly opening one eye catching the faintest glimpse of the ring’s colorful gem as it glistened from the overhead lights in the bathroom's ceiling. “It's not like I can just grab it now, but if my Mom doesn’t move it when she goes to sleep tonight maybe I could grab it without her noticing.” Sarah thought suddenly realizing her mother had stopped stroking her hair causing her to look back at her mother curiously.

“Let’s get you all nice and clean.” Her Mother said with a bright smile while holding a bar of soap, and a wash cloth. “Now come to Mommy.” She said raising her body into a sitting position while forcing Sarah to do the same.

“Stop Mom I can wash myself.” Sarah said pleadingly as she could feel a thick layer of soap being lathered over her entire body. “Mom Stop!” Sarah said causing her voice to crack loudly.

“Oh dear someone is still being so fussy tonight.” Sarah’s Mom said with a warm laugh while she began rinsing the soap from Sarah’s body, and proceeded to turn her around while gently placing Sarah face down on her stomach forcing Sarah to look directly into her eyes. “What am I going to do with you?” She said smiling happily while gently wiping Sarah’s face gently with the cloth.

For a moment Sarah thought about saying something that would hopefully help her mother understand that she wasn’t the little girl she appeared to be, but before Sarah could even utter one word she noticed that her mouth had gone dry. “So thirsty.” Sarah thought to herself as she could feel her tongue shifting around in her mouth slowly when suddenly Sarah’s gaze went from her Mother’s eyes to the soft nipples protruding from her breasts.

“I thought that might be the problem.” Sarah’s Mom cooed gently pulling Sarah up into her arms, and cradling her gently while laying back against the tub. “No need to be shy little one.” She whispered while gently bringing Sarah to her breast until Sarah was close enough to begin nursing.

“So thirsty.” Sarah thought as again as she could feel her mouth slowly opening when suddenly she had a sudden realization of what she was about to do. “No, I’ve got to stop this.” Sarah thought turning her face away from her mother’s exposed breast. “I’m too old to be doing this.” Sarah continued to think when suddenly she could feel her mother’s hand against her face.

“You’re just being such a little grumpy pants today.” She whispered teasingly while gently turning Sarah’s head towards her breast, and gently pushing her mouth closer.

“No, I don’t want to.” Sarah shrieked loudly before her lips grazed around the tender skin of her mother’s breast, and her mouth instinctively began to open wide enough allowing herself to begin suckling on her mother’s breast.

“That’s Mama’s Baby Girl.” Sarah’s Mom whispered while gently closing her eyes and savoring the sound of Sarah’s passionate suckling. “It feels like it has been years since we’ve done this Baby girl.” She whispered while gently caressing the back of Sarah’s head feeling her soft hair between her fingers.

Sarah’s initial thought was to try to push herself away from her Mother until she gave up, but as she continued to suckle the desire to resist slowly began to fade away. “Maybe, I’ll just do this for a little long.” Sarah thought to herself while wondering how long her Mother would have her try to pull milk from a dried well when suddenly she could taste the faintest hint of something sweet dripping on her tongue. “Milk?” Sarah thought her eyes opening wide as the single drop she had tasted was immediately followed by another, and within a matter of moments a warm rush of milk completely filled her mouth forcing her to drink.

“Such a good girl.” Her mother whispered gently rubbing her hand up and down Sarah’s back while Sarah continued to drink greedily when suddenly the sound of her mother’s phone could be heard ringing in another room. “Who could that be?” Sarah’s Mom whispered before gently wrapping her arms tightly around Sarah, standing up, and carefully carrying Sarah out of the bathroom while she continued to feed greedily on the warm milk that was now dropping down her cheeks and face. “Oh it was your Auntie.” She said whispered glancing at the display of her phone to find a missed called followed by a text message that made her laugh out loud. “Wonder what she wanted.” She muttered to herself while taking Sarah over to the changing table in her room. “Just about finished baby girl?” She asked lovingly while looking directly into Sarah’s eyes causing Sarah to instantly stop drinking.

“What have I been doing?” Sarah thought in a panic as she began struggling to get her mother to put her down. “Put me down.” Sarah shouted frantically as a veil lifted from her mind. “Why did I do that.” Sarah thought in a panic. “Why did my mind just turn off?” She shouted just as her mother inserted a pacifier into her mouth that Sarah immediately spit out. “No, I want down!” Sarah screamed loudly while kicking her arms and legs around frantically.

“Hush Baby Girl.” Sarah’s Mom said with an apologetic tone. “Mama didn’t mean to startle you.” She said gently laying Sarah on top of the soft padded material of the changing table while gently holding the palm of her hand against Sarah’s chest. “I know someone who is ready for night night.” Sarah’s Mom said with a sigh as she attempted to reinsert Sarah’s pacifier back into her mouth.

“Nooo!” Sarah screamed turning her head side to side to avoid the infantile object. “I need to get back to normal.” Sarah shouted pleadingly hoping her mother would stop to listen to what she had to say.

“Alright, I think someone has had a little too much stimulation today.” Sarah’s Mom says sliding a diaper under Sarah’s butt before quickly sprinkling some powder, and then closing the diaper snugly around Sarah’s waist. “There I bet that feels better now doesn’t it.” Sarah’s Mom said with a smile while Sarah tried to push herself to her feet.

“The ring in the bathroom is magic, and it turned my from an adult to a child.” Sarah said realizing that her mother didn’t seem to be listening to a single word she was saying, and was instead pulling something from the closet. “Mom please listen!” Sarah shouted as she tried to take a step forward, but instead fell backwards on her padded butt. “What?” Sarah murmured as she attempted to slowly get back to her feet only to fall on her padded bottom. "What's happening to me? Mom I can't stand up!" Sarah shouted as she fell on her bottom after another failed attempt at standing.

“Boom.” Sarah’s Mom teasingly said scooping Sarah into her arms. “Now, let’s get you into your jammies, and into bed.” She whispered while Sarah's mind raced frantically trying to come to grips with her inability to stand.

“Mom, I think something’s wrong.” Sarah said while her mother began dressing her in a dark purple onesie with a pair of matching booties. “Mom please!” Sarah shouted only to be met with the nipple of a pacifier.

“Baby Girl enough.” Sarah’s Mom said sweetly, but firmly as she scooped Sarah into her arms, and carried her to a large crib that sat where Sarah’s bed used to be. “I think someone just needs a little rest, so just close your eyes and listen to the pretty music.” She said sweetly while tucking Sarah beneath an assortment of soft blankets. “Sweet dreams sweetie. Mommy will be right here when you wake up.” She whispered while gently giving Sarah a kiss on the forehead, and turning on a colorful mobile above Sarah’s head.

Feeling the weight of the blankets covering her chest with her mother’s presence Sarah knew that her only way out of bed would be to convince her mother that she had fallen asleep. “Good thing I’ve had years of practice at this part.” Sarah thought to herself while smiling discreetly behind her pacifier before letting out a long yawn, and slowly opening and closing her eyes until she finally let them close completely.

“Such a good girl.” Sarah’s Mom whispered silently as she slowly stood to her feet while checking to make sure that she hadn’t woken Sarah up. “Good night Baby Girl.” Sarah’s Mom whispered while gently closing the door to Sarah’s room shut behind her.

“Is she gone?” Sarah thought to herself allowing her eyes to open slightly after she felt her mother had been gone for at least fifteen minutes. “Is she still awake?” Sarah thought quietly to herself as she slowly brought herself to a sitting position, and listened intently for any signs that her mother was still awake. “She must have gone to sleep.” Sarah thought as she began to smile brightly removing the pacifier from her mouth as she tried to slowly get to her feet. “Why does this feel so difficult?” Sarah murmured her face becoming hot from frustration. “Am I getting weaker?” Sarah began to wonder for a moment when she suddenly felt a warm mush spreading throughout the back of her diaper that caused a foul stench to surround her. “I didn’t even feel that.” Sarah managed to say as she began breathing quickly.

“I didn’t even know I needed to go.” She quickly added as her breathing quickened, and a warm moisture began accumulating around her eyes until something inside her broke. “Mommy!” Sarah sobbed causing large tears to roll down her face as all of the frustration she had been feeling since before she had even started her summer break boiled to the surface fueling her emotional outburst. “I just wanted to have a little fun this summer. Spend time with my friends, go to the movies, and maybe even meet someone special.” Sarah shouted through her tears as the door to her room flew open. “But no I’m stuck here sitting in my own filth!” She screamed just as her pacifier was quickly placed back into her mouth, and she could feel her mother taking Sarah into her arms.

“Its alright. Mommy is here. Mommy is right here.” Sarah’s Mom whispered holding Sarah against her chest while slowly approaching a large wooden rocking chair in the corner of the room. “Poor thing your just so tired.” She said removing the strap of a nightgown that she had put on. “Are you still hungry Baby Girl?” She asked as Sarah’s sobs began to subside. “Ah, that must be what it is.” She says sweetly giving Sarah a soft kiss on the forehead.

“No, I don’t” Sarah tried to say as she could feel her mouth beginning to dry out once more making it difficult to speak. “No.” She managed to say loudly enough for her mother to here, but before she was able to utter another word she could feel her lips latching tightly on to her mother’s waiting chest causing her thoughts to become quiet as she began suckling her mother’s nipple as her mother began to gently rock in the large wooden chair until Sarah had finally fallen asleep.

Part: 4

“What happened?” Sarah mumbled to herself slowly sliding her eyelids open immediately spotting her pacifier laying on her mattress covered in drool that had leaked from Sarah’s mouth as she slept flatly on her stomach. “So much for this all being a dream.” Sarah grimaced as she gently guided her hand beneath a soft blanket that had been draped over her to find she was still dressed in the diaper and onesie her mother had put her in. “At least it feels like I’m dry.” Sarah whispered looking for something positive that she could cling to as she struggled to recall everything that happened before she had drifted to sleep. “Forget it.” Sarah said with a dismissive sigh as she began to slowly push herself up into a crawling position finding that she was able to do so quite easily causing her to smile slightly as she got to her feet as easily as she normally would be able to. “Finally, a little bit of luck.” Sarah cheered hopping up and down slightly on the crinkly mattress with her with her legs spread wide thanks to the diaper wrapped tightly around her waist. “Time to get this nightmare over with.” Sarah muttered to herself satisfied that she was able to move around normally again.

With one obstacle removed Sarah found herself standing silently in the center of the large wooden crib listening intently for even the slightest sign that her mother was still awake, but after what felt like ten minutes of focused listening Sarah let out a small silent sigh of relief as she began assessing the wooden bars that surrounded her.

“Alright, so I just need to push on this button, and that will release the lock on the crib’s railing.” Sarah considered as she imagined the loud crashing sound the rail would make if she were to let it fall open on its open. “Am I strong enough to lower the railing up myself?” Sarah wondered while carefully assessing her infantile hands and arms before taking a deep breath, and pressing hard on the large white button protruding along the side of the sliding crib railing. “Feels like its stuck.” Sarah murmured squinting her eyes to push as hard as she could when suddenly she felt the first sign of movement followed by a loud crash that rang out through her room that made Sarah stand completely motionless listening for any signs of her mother coming to check on her.

“Damn that was close.” Sarah wheezed collapsing on to the padded surface of her butt with a loud crinkle giving herself a moment to let her heart beat slow down while carefully assessing the drop from where she sat to the floor beneath her. “Just slide down nice and slow.” Sarah thought as she turned herself around, and slowly approached the edge of her crib like she was about to descend a tall ladder. “Three, two, one.” Sarah quietly counted sliding down the side of her crib using the lowered crib railing to help keep her from falling to the floor to fast or loud. “I did it.” Sarah whispered smiling brightly finding that she seemed to have a much easier time standing and walking now that she wasn’t doing it on the springy padded surface of the mattress in her crib.

“Now how am I supposed to open this?” Sarah mused to herself approaching the door to her room while assessing the distance from the ground to the doorhandle keeping the door shut. "I could probably grab it if I jumped, but that would make too much noise." She thought feeling herself growing more cautious the closer she got to the ring in the bathroom. “Just focus on what you need to do.” Sarah whispered to herself glancing around the room for anything that she could use to help her before spotting a set of plastic chairs arranged around a small table in the corner of the room. “Of course.” Sarah whispered silently approaching the closest chair, and lifting it off the floor making it less noisy to move. “Place this here.” Sarah mumbled placing the chair along the edge of the door to prevent it from blocking the door when it was opened. “And presto.” Sarah silently cheered watching the door open wide enough for her to slip into the hallway outside her room.

“Next stop ring central.” Sarah murmured silently creeping down the hallway, and through the open bathroom door while cautiously guiding the chair inside. “Nice and easy.” Sarah thought to herself setting her chair in front the bathroom sink as she climbed up on its flat surface only to discovered that even while standing on the chair she still wasn’t tall enough to reach above the sink. “Alright, don’t panic.” Sarah thought for a moment standing on her tip toes giving her a small glimpse of the ring’s reflective purple gem glimmering in the dim light. “At least its still there.” Sarah mumbled lowering herself back down to the floor before closing her eyes in an attempt to think of some way to get the ring from the back of the sink. “If I had something a little taller I might be able to pull myself up on to the sink or if I had something long enough I could knock the ring on to the floor.” Sarah thought with a smile as she quickly ran through the open bathroom door, and made her way into the kitchen where she could see the dark outline of the broom hanging on a hook beside the mop. “Its still there.” Sarah nearly exclaimed out loud before quickly covering her mouth to contain her excitement. “This will work perfectly.” Sarah thought as she gently eased the broom off of its hook, and proceeded to skitter back into the bathroom causing her diaper to crinkle rhythmically the entire way until Sarah cautiously slid her chair back slightly from the sink, climbed on top of it, and gently lowered the broom down towards the back edge of the sink just slightly to the right of her circular key to freedom.

“Just need to give it one big push to the left.” Sarah muttered to herself slowly sliding the handle of the broom right to give herself more room before attempting to brush the ring on to the floor when suddenly Sarah’s stomach began to cramp violently releasing a loud gurgle that caused her to nearly lose her grip on the broom’s handle. “Come on girl. Just keep it together a little longer.” Sarah murmured through gritted teeth just as the bristles of the broom made contact with the ring. “And now to give it one big push.” Sarah murmured when suddenly the domed bathroom light above her flicked on momentarily blinding her causing the broom to slide off the edge of the sink, and causing the ring to tumble loudly inside. “No!” Sarah shrieked loudly as her vision slowly cleared allowing her to see the blurry outline of the ring tumbling around the edge of the sink loudly tapping the sink's porcelain basin loudly as it did.

“Baby Girl what on earth do you think your doing in here? ”Sarah’s Mom said sounding less than pleased with what she was seeing as she proceeded to scoop Sarah off of the floor while pulling the broom from her hands.

“No don’t let it fall in!” Sarah shouted while reaching helplessly towards the sink just as the ring slipped into the drain, and began tumbling down into the pipes.

“What are you going on about Baby Girl?” Sarah’s Mom asked with a tone that was a mix between frustrated and confused as she looked toward the sink seeing nothing out of the ordinary.

“NOOOOO!” Sarah shrieked louder than she had ever done. “Its gone! The rings gone!” Sarah wailed her face turning a dark shade of red as she buried her face into her mother’s chest and wailed helplessly as panic began to overtake her mind. “I’m going to be stuck like this!” Sarah moaned loudly drenching the soft cotton of her mother’s nightgown with a steady flow of tears.

“Hush now Baby Girl. Its alright.” Sarah’s Mom said gently allowing her tone to soften as she set the broom down gently beside the sink, and held Sarah tightly in her arms while gently patting her back. “It’s alright Mommy isn’t mad.” She continued to say gently flicking the lights to the bathroom off, and carried Sarah into her own bedroom. “Sarah, I wish you could just tell me what’s wrong sometimes.” She whispered quietly over Sarah’s loud and labored sobs when suddenly Sarah became quiet before releasing a low toot followed by a rush of watery poop that coated the inside of Sarah’s diaper entirely. “Sounds like someone has a grumpy tummy.” Sarah’s Mom said gently feeling Sarah’s now droopy diaper in her hand.

“I’m going to be stuck like this?” Sarah thought to herself as her breathing began to quicken slightly as her eyes drifted through the darkness of the night imaging her ring tumbling through the pipes, and landing in a pool of sewage deep beneath the streets. “What am I going to do.” Sarah thought as her stomach cramped violently causing her to release more of her watery stool into the seat of her pants as her eyes began to water once more."Let it all out Baby Girl, and Mommy will go get you changed into a fresh diaper." She said with a smile of relief. "I wish you could have just told me your little tummy was feeling sick precious." She whispered gently kissing the side of Sarah's head as Sarah resumed crying loudly.

"What am I going to do now?" Sarah thought in between sobs as she could feel her mother gently patting her back causing Sarah's stomach to tighten letting her know she still wasn't done filling her diaper.

Part: 5

“There you’re all nice and clean again.” Sarah’s Mom said in a tone Sarah was supposed to find soothing and reassuring. “Alright precious let’s see if we can get a little more sleep.” She whispered carrying Sarah from the nursery and into the master bedroom of the home while Sarah still sobbed lightly rubbing her face against her mother’s warm chest. “Here you are precious.” She whispered pulling a large quilt over Sarah and propping a large pillow behind her head before wrapping one of her arms securing over Sarah.

“I can’t believe its gone.” Sarah thought to herself finally calm enough to begin to think again. “Alright, just try to breathe.” She thought taking a deep breath while slowly closing her eyes. “Nothing good will come from panicking.” She thought as her mouth suddenly opened allowing a loud yawn to escape causing her mother to laugh quietly letting Sarah know that she was still awake despite how quiet her breathing had been.

“Mom's right." Sarah admitted to herself begrudgingly. "I should try to get some more sleep.” Sarah thought wriggling her body in a comfortable position beneath the surface of her blanket causing her diaper to crinkle distinctively through the placid air of the night.

The next morning Sarah awoke to the feeling of her mother’s warm cheek against hers as she slowly slid her eyes open to find that her mother had pulled her closer to her at some point during the night causing her to feel as small and helpless as she looked laying next to her mother’s tall slender frame. Without saying anything Sarah slowly held her hands out in front of her face allowing herself to more closely examine the small digits on each of her hands until she suddenly became aware that her mother’s eyes were watching her silently.

“Good morning Baby Girl.” Her mother said while slowly reaching her hand beneath Sarah’s blanket, and slipping a finger beneath the lining of her diaper causing Sarah to realize for the first time she had been laying in a damp diaper without even knowing it.

“Oh my God I didn’t even realize that I was wet.” Sarah thought in a panic causing her stomach to stir loudly as if to remind her that she should go to the bathroom, but before she could turn to her mother to ask for her for assistance with relieving herself her stomach once again began to squeeze itself tightly causing Sarah’s face to scrunch up in pain.

“Oh Mama knows that face.” She whispered gently brushing several strands of hair away from Sarah’s eye. “Is someone trying to use their diaper instead of the potty.” She asked with a curious tone while gently squeezing Sarah’s hand between her fingers. “Does Mommy’s girl want to go to the potty like like a big girl?” She asked lazily studying Sarah’s strained expression.

“I want to use the potty.” Sarah managed to say suddenly realizing her body seemed to be acting on its own in an attempt to relieve the pressure that had been slowly building during the night. “I’m a big girl.” Sarah managed to see as she used all of her willpower to keep from having an accident.

“Yes, you are precious.” Sarah’s Mom responded happily sitting up, and stretching her arms wide before lazily scooping Sarah from beneath her bedding, and gently cradling Sarah in her arms causing Sarah to toot loudly. “You’ve had such a good week with the potty, and Mommy is very proud of you.” She said warmly while gently tickling Sarah’s stomach causing her to laugh.

“Stop it!” Sarah shouted through her laughter as she suddenly realized her laughter was causing her muscles that were already at their limit to loosen slightly as another wave of cramping rippled through Sarah’s stomach making her moan loudly just before a rush of warm watery stool rushed into the thick padding of Sarah’s diaper causing her to cry out of frustration. “Why couldn’t you carry me faster!” Sarah shouted angrily at her mother who had instinctively started heading toward her nursery. “This is all your fault!” Sarah continued to lash out as newly formed tears began streaking down Sarah’s beet red face.

“Hush Baby Girl.” Sarah’s Mom said reaching into Sarah’s crib to retrieve her pacifier. “Mommy will clean you up, so just try to calm down.” She said sweetly placing the pacifier into Sarah’s mouth without her even realizing it. “I think someone might need to see Aunt Becky at the clinic.” She said calmly going to Sarah’s closet to retrieve a yellow sundress, a pair of white socks, and a shiny black pair of shoes.

“Aunt Becky’s clinic?” Sarah thought her mind beginning to race. “But I can’t go out looking like this?” Sarah whispered as she caught a glimpse of the bright yellow dress, white socks, and shiny black shoes she had been dressed in. “Mom, I don’t want to see Aunt Becky.” Sarah said weakly before she was scooped off of the table, and carried to her highchair in the kitchen.

“I bet some yummy oatmeal will make Mama’s Baby Girl feel better.” Sarah’s Mom said thoughtfully as she reached for a large canister filled with oatmeal, and began pouring some into a large pink bowl set out on the counter.

“That actually sounds kind of good.” Sarah thought just as her stomach began to growl loudly. “And probably the best thing I’d be offered.” Sarah thought as she looked at an array of colorful glass jars filled with baby food that lined a long shelf sitting on top of the counter.

“Alright, let’s fill your tummy nice and full.” Sarah’s Mom said with a bright smile as she slid a chair in front of Sarah while holding a large bowl filled with hot steamy oatmeal. “Open wide sweetie here comes the Flavor Express.” Her Mom said bringing a spoonful of oatmeal to Sarah’s mouth. “Come on Baby Girl I know your hungry.” She said gently swirling the spoon just beneath Sarah’s nose allowing her to smell a hint of brown sugar and butter.

“Damn that smells good.” Sarah mumbled begrudgingly opening her moth, and allowing her mother to shovel a large bite of hot cereal into her mouth. “This tastes amazing.” Sarah thought as she quickly opened her mouth to receive another spoonful.

“Well, at least you’ve still got your appetite.” Sarah’s Mom said with a smile as she let out a small sigh of relief as she continued to feed Sarah until the contents of the bowl were empty. “All gone!” Sarah’s Mom said cheering happily as she took the bowl to the sink, and washed it leaving Sarah along long enough for her to realize that it was already ten o’clock in the morning.

“Its been forever since I’ve been able to sleep in.” Sarah thought to herself reflecting ever time she had to get up early last week to either work, run errands, or help her Mom with something around the house.

“Here you are precious drink this for Mommy.” Sarah’s Mom said while reclaiming her seat in front of Sarah, and placing the nipple of a pink colored bottle filled to her lips.

“Yeah, but only because I’m thirsty.” Sarah said crossing her arms defiantly as she opened her mouth, and began to suckle on the nipple filling her mouth with ice cold milk.

“Where is this naughty little attitude coming from?” Sarah Mom said with a laugh as she leaned one of her arms on the large plastic tray in front of Sarah, and watched as she quickly drained the contents of the bottle without a single fuss. “Great job Baby Girl.” She said placing the empty bottle on the tray before lifting Sarah up to her chest while patting Sarah gently on the back.

“Mom, what are you doing?” Sarah asked when suddenly a large burp escaped Sarah causing her face to redden slightly as she was carried from the kitchen, and into the living room where she was placed in her large playpen. “Hey, wait!” Sarah shouted suddenly realizing her mother was about to leave her alone with nothing to do.

“Mommy will be right back Baby Girl.” She said with a smile quickly heading to her bedroom.

“Great, and now I’m stuck in here again.” Sarah sighed loudly looking around her seeing a bunch of toys with large brightly colored buttons, large stuffed animals, several dolls dressed similarly to how she was, and a bright pink blanket. “Well I might as well see what they do.” Sarah thought picking up a large circular toy covered with a variety of animals, a colorful arrow, and a red crank off to the right side. “Here we go.” Sarah mumbled as she pulled the red lever causing the large arrow to spin around like a large roulette wheel.

“The cow says Moo.” A woman’s voice called out once loud followed by the sound of a cow calling out.

“The next one is going to be a chicken.” Sarah thought laying the toy flat as if it were actually a roulette wheel instead of child's toy.

“The chicken says cock a doodle doo.” The woman called out causing Sarah to laugh genuinely.

“When I get out of here I’m going to Vegas!” She thought with a bright smile on her face as she tried to predict where the arrow will stop next.

“Trick question.” Sarah thought to herself while pointing at the arrow. “Its going to be the cow again.” She whispered while pulling the red lever, and jumping for joy as the sound of a cow called out. “I’m so good at this.” Sarah shouted happily when she suddenly got the feeling that she was being watched.

“Having a fun play time Baby Girl?” Her Mom asked with a bright smile as she entered the room, and quickly scooped Sarah and Sarah’s new toy into her arms. “You can play with this in the car.” She quickly added giving the red lever a quick pull letting the arrow spin as she slipped into her sandals, grabbed her purse, and carried Sarah to her car causing Sarah to glance down the driveway and along the street.

“Mom, where’s my car?” Sarah asked as a cold shiver ran down her spine. “Did it disappear because of the ring?” Sarah asked herself as she was lowered into the familiar interior of her mother’s Toyota Camry before she was slid into a car seat she was positive she had never had when she was growing up. “Mom are you listening to me?” She asked suddenly realizing her mother had already closed her door, and was climbing into the driver’s seat.

“Next stop Aunt Becky’s Pediatrics!” Sarah’s Mom cheered happily backing out of the driveway giving Sarah a clear view of the street.

“My car really is gone.” Sarah whispered as she could feel her stomach begin to churn violently as her thought had been confirmed. “Does that mean it’d be gone even if I changed myself back to normal?” Sarah wondered to herself as her mother turned on the radio, and slid in a CD filled with repetitive songs that she was certain she loved back when she was actually three. “I’ve got to talk to that lady from the secondhand shop again.” Sarah finally thought as she fought to tune out the loud clumsy music playing around her. “Surely, she has some kind of way to undo whatever that ring did to me.” Sarah mumbled as her started to slow the car down, and pull into the parking lot in front of her Aunt Beck’s clinic when suddenly Sarah had a sudden realization. “What if Aunt Becky remembers I’m supposed to be an adult?” She thought happily just as her mother opened the door catching a glimpse of Sarah’s smile.

“See I know you’d be excited to come see Aunt Becky.” Her mother said happily pulling Sarah into her arms along with a large backpack that she assumed had supplies to help change her diaper. “Baby Girl you were doing so good.” Her mother said sounding mildly disappointed. “Maybe, your not quite ready for potty training after all.” She said closing the car door as Sarah suddenly became aware of the warm spot in the lining of her diaper.

“Yeah, well maybe if you’d have asked if I needed to go to the bathroom I would have went there instead of in my diaper.” Sarah mumbled as her mother slid her pacifier into Sarah's mouth. “Wait, no that isn’t right.” Sarah thought placing her hands on her forehead in disbelief. “I’m an adult and I shouldn’t need to be reminded.” She said to herself several times just as she was carried through a large glass door, and into a modestly decorated waiting area where her Aunt’s receptionist named Luann sat behind a wall of glass looking down at her phone before she looked up giving Sarah and her Mom a friendly wave.

“Alright, she seems like she recognizes my Mom, but does she recognize me?” Sarah wondered to herself hoping that when her mother told Luann who she was she would begin to ask questions that would help remind her mother that she was actually an adult trapped in a child’s body.

“Well howdy Jenn!” Luann shouted running through a side door before shouting out to her aunt. “Hey Doctor your sister is here, and it looks like she brought a little cutey in with her.” She shouted loudly as she opened a matte white door, and gave Sarah’s Mom and her a hug. “Its been forever since I’ve see you!” She shouted happily before slowly turning, and looking directly into Sarah’s eyes. “And who is this little cutie?” She asked happily causing Sarah to smile brightly.

“She doesn’t know who I am!” Sarah practically shouted as she gently removed the pacifier from her mouth while clearing her throat. “Its me Luann. Its Sarah.” She said confidently as Luann's smile grew larger, but before she could say anything the door to the clinic's back offices opened revealing a tall slender woman with long flowing blonde hair and green eyes hidden behind a delicate pair of glasses stepped into the lobby while removing their white medical jacket revealing a professional black blouse accented by a stylish gold necklace.

“Sis!” Aunt Becky shouted happily running over to where Sarah’s Mom was standing with Sarah still in her arms. “You’re just in time we were about to close up for lunch.” Aunt Becky said warmly as she quickly turned towards Luann. “You can go on ahead. I’ll lock up before leaving.” She said allowing Luann to take her leave while giving Sarah a small playful wave.

“I’d love to grab a bite, but first I wanted to see if you could give Sarah a quick check up.” Sarah’s Mom said as Aunt Becky gently squeezed Sarah’s cheeks with her fingers.

“Of course I can, but where is she?” Aunt Becky said glancing around the lobby looking in every direction except at her. “Is she still in the car?” She asked as Sarah’s smile continued to widen. “Maybe, you forgot her at home?” Aunt Becky playfully said earning a bitter look from her mother.

“Yeah, don’t joke about that.” Sarah’s Mom said with an intense frown on her face. “Ever.”

“Yes! She doesn’t think its me in my Mom’s Arms! She is probably expecting me to walk through the door on my own any second now!” Sarah thought giddily as she took a deep breath and shouted. “I’m right here Aunt Becky!” Sarah shouted dropping the pacifier to the floor, while looking her Aunt directly in the eyes to ensure that Aunt Becky got a good look at her.

“Oh there you are!” Aunt Becky playfully shouted snatching her from her mother’s arms with a playful grin that made Sarah’s stomach feel nauseous.

“No, don’t tell me she was just pretending that she couldn’t see me.” Sarah’s mind cried out as her Aunt held Sarah high above her head while gently making rocket ship noises. “Which means she doesn’t remember I was an adult either.” Sarah thought as her eyes began to water as her stomach grew more nauseous by the moment.

“Hey, what’s wrong Baby Girl?” Aunt Becky asked as her professional tone quickly returned, and she slowly lowered Sarah down to her eye level looking her over more thoroughly. “Has she been eating?” Aunt Becky asked as Sarah’s stomach moaned loudly.

“I’m not a.” Sarah started to say when suddenly she felt a rush of fluid rushing from her stomach and out her mouth landing on to her Aunt’s black blouse. “Baby.” Sarah said weakly as she began to cry realizing she and her Aunt were each covered in puke. “Eeew! This is so gross!” Sarah wailed uncomfortably as she felt herself steadily becoming more emotional.

“I tried to warn you.” Sarah’s Mom said while trying to stifle a chuckle as she took Sarah back into her arms, and Aunt Becky let out a loud sigh. “Sorry about your blouse.” Sarah’s Mom said sympathetically following behind her sister through the door that led into a small hallway that connected to a modestly sized room lined with several shelves, stools, and a large padded bed covered in paper.

“Set her down on the bed sis.” Aunt Becky said closing the door, and removing her soiled blouse leaving her in just a tight white t-shirt. “Alright precious let’s have a better look at you.” Aunt Becky said grabbing a wooden tongue depressor that she cautiously used to prop Sarah’s mouth open while she shined a bright light inside and cautiously glanced inside. “What symptoms have you noticed?” Aunt Becky asked Sarah's mother while she proceeded to examine Sarah’s ears.

“Well her poopies have been watery.” Sarah’s Mom said causing Aunt Becky to nod routinely as she pressed a stethoscope on to Sarah’s back to listen to Sarah’s breathing. “And she has been quite cranky lately.” Sarah’s mother said causing Sarah to sigh loudly hearing her cries for help categorized as nothing more than a child being cranky. “And I guess now her tummy is bothering her.” Sarah’s Mom said weakly using a wet wipe to clean oatmeal residue from her stomach off of her face. “Is Sarah going to be alright?” Sarah’s Mom asked just as Aunt Becky slid a thermometer under Sarah’s tongue.

“She’ll be fine, but she has a slight fever.” Aunt Becky said in a matter of fact tone as she discarded the used thermometer into a small trash bin beside the bed. “Most likely the stomach flu.” She said reaching into a nearby cabinet to place her soiled blouse into a plastic garbage bag before presenting Sarah’s mother with an empty bag as well. “You can put her clothes in here.” Aunt Becky said while taking a seat on a stool in front of Sarah while making a silly face. “Auntie is sorry you had to see her serious face.” She said in a playful tone as she contorted her mouth into various faces in the hopes of getting Sarah to laugh. “Poor thing must still be feeling sick.” She said with a sigh as Sarah’s Mom began stripping away Sarah’s shoes, socks, and dress leaving her in just a wet diaper.

“Might as well change this since we’re here.” Sarah’s Mom said with a smile on her face before glancing back toward Aunt Becky. “So, what should I give her?” She asked placing a new diaper beneath Sarah.

“I wish they wouldn’t talk about me like I’m not even here.” Sarah thought to herself as she gently patted her stomach causing it to groan quietly, and watched her mother change yet another diaper she had used.

“I’d say cut back on food and milk for now, and instead give her a steady supply of Pedialyte with something very light to eat such as crackers.” Aunt Becky said going to a cabinet where she retrieved a large bottle of Pedialyte and a small container of children’s Tylenol. “Give her the Tylenol to control her fever, and of course make sure she gets plenty of bed rest for the next few days.” She added giving Sarah a playful boop on the nose with her finger while smiling brightly.

“There clean again.” Sarah’s Mom said with a smile as she placed Sarah now dressed in a pink dress and socks on Aunt Becky’s lap before placing Sarah’s soiled clothing into the trash bag Aunt Becky had given her.

“And just in time for us to grab a bite.” Aunt Becky said glancing down at her phone. “I’ve still got about 30 minutes of lunch if you don’t mind grabbing a burger from across the street. “You’re treat of course unless you’d rather pay my consolation fee.” She said causing everyone except Sarah to laugh as she could feel her stomach still churning angrily as she was carried out to her mother’s car by her Aunt Becky.