Unboxed

Part: 1

Along a lonely country road, just after midnight, the sounds of an engine erupt across a bridge that groans loudly as if it were warmly welcoming the first traveler it has received in days, but the greeting was cut short as the wheels of the truck were urged forward as Clare began to press on the accelerator.

“This job doesn’t pay me well enough to put up with this shit.” Clare thought as she grumpily glanced down at the screen of her GPS, checking how much further she had to go, when she suddenly caught a glimpse of herself in the review mirror.

“I really should try to do something with this,” Clare thought as she gently ran her fingers through her long, tangled hair, allowing her to see the exhaustion in her eyes more clearly. “Just one more delivery to make, Clare, and then you’re home free for two whole weeks.” As this thought crossed her mind, she felt her smile returning for the first time that day, filling the last few silent moments of the drive with visions of everything she could do during her time off. “Well, I know what I’m not doing,” Clare laughed as she began to bring her truck to a stop. Suddenly, a mixture of emotions began to slowly erode her smile as her eyes scanned her paperwork to verify that she had stopped at the right address. Confused, Clare quickly opened the door and leapt out of the front seat, landing in the mushy mud of the road she had been driving on, while her hand instinctively began to dial her office.

“This is Clare Smith. Employee ID 251896.” Clare said instinctively as she heard the operator yawn loudly while she spoke. “Listen, I’m at the address to deliver my last package of the day, but there isn’t anyone or any place to deliver this package to,” Clare said while checking the time on her watch.

For several long minutes, Clare stood behind her truck looking at the large logo of two bears happily carrying a shipping crate, when suddenly the operator finally spoke. “Let’s see. Ah, yes, your instructions are to leave the package at the address provided.”

“Are you even listening? There isn’t anything at this address? Do you expect me to just leave it beside the road?” Clare huffed as she felt the minutes of her vacation slowly being taken from her.

“Those are the instructions I have for you. Please document the delivery of the package before leaving.” The voice said sleepily as the line became silent.

“Hello. Hello. You there?” Clare nearly shouted as she felt the last thread of her patience being threatened to snap at any moment. “Fine, I’ll leave it here then.” Clare nearly shouted as she threw open the back of her truck. “What do I care if this thing gets stolen?” She grinned as she wheeled the package down the ramp and onto the cool grass beside the road. “Document this.” Clare spat as she took a picture of a tall crate that felt like it weighed at least two hundred pounds. “Package delivered as requested. No one available to sign.” Clare quickly typed into her tablet as she leaned up against the crate.

Once Clare finished entering her notes, she quickly slid the ramp back into place, closed the truck’s door, and slowly began digging for her keys. “I bet this package gets picked up by the first yahoo to drive by here.” Clare fumed as she noticed she had lost another fifteen minutes of her precious vacation. “But at least I won’t have to be the one who has to deal with the fallout from this.” Clare grinned happily as she quickly glanced back at the package before coming to a stop. “It's just going to get stolen anyway, and I am losing out on precious vacation time because of it,” Clare smirked as she found herself once again opening the doors of her truck, wheeling the sturdy crate back up the ramp, and closing the door with a smile. “What did I say. Stolen by the first yahoo.” Clare thought as her pale green eyes glistened happily in the rear-view mirror while she expertly turned around to begin her trip back home.

“Made pretty good time.” Clare practically sang as she gently brought her truck to a stop in front of a small one-floor house that had clearly seen better days. “Maybe I’ll finally get to do some of the upkeep,” Clare whispered as she glanced over her shoulder to make sure that she was still alone.

“I can’t believe I’m doing this.” Clare thought to herself as she began to wheel the crate up to her front door. “But who is going to know?” Clare grimaced as she fidgeted with the crate until it slid through her front door and landed on the worn, stained carpet of her living room. “There wasn’t anyone around, and I documented that the package had been delivered to the exact place I was told to,” Clare muttered as she began to cut the various straps that were tightly wrapped around the crate until all at once all four sides of the crate fell away, revealing what Clare could only describe as a mannequin.

Several moments passed as Clare searched for any accompanying documentation that would have been delivered with the package, but after several minutes of finding nothing, Clare stopped for a moment to admire the nude figure that stood before her. “Wow, she is kind of pretty.” Clare thought to herself as she slowly sized up the fair-skinned figure in front of her, just as the figure began to stir, causing Clare to fall backward onto her butt with a thud. “What’s happening?” Clare thought to herself as the figure’s eyelids slowly opened, revealing a pair of brightly lit blue eyes that began to rhythmically sweep the room in, and Clare was standing in for several seconds until it slowly looked directly into Clare’s eyes with a bright white smile and a gentle bow that revealed its hair was the same shade as Clare’s own hair.

“Good evening Mam. My name is Mira, and it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Several moments passed when it suddenly dawned on Clare that this Mira was talking to her. Still unsure of what she was dealing with, Clare cautiously got to her feet while introducing herself as well. “Hi. I’m Clare. What are...I mean, who are you?” Clare asked hesitantly as she began to reach for a blanket on her sofa to offer the naked woman in front of her. “Here, put this on,” Clare said as Mira obediently took the blanket from Clare’s hands.

“Thank you, Ms. Clare,” Mira said with a respectful tone that Clare was not accustomed to.

“Sure, no problem.” Clare dismissively said before she took a seat on the sofa, and Mira slowly turned herself until she was once again looking directly at Clare. “So, what are you? Some kind of robot?” Clare asked quizzically as she slowly began to grow slightly jealous of Mira’s perfectly manufactured figure.

“Close.” Mira chimed sweetly as she gently closed her eyes while tilting her head. “No, I am not a robot, but I suppose I am not that far removed from one.” She said while slowly taking a seat beside Clare. “I am known as an Android. Which I will admit is quite similar to a robot, but given time, I just know you’ll be able to see I am actually far better.” Mira said as she elegantly leaned closer to Clare, revealing that she was at least two inches taller.

Unsure of what to say next, Clare began to fidget beside Mira as she tried to think of anything to say, but before Clare was able to say anything else, Mira gently placed a hand on Clare’s shoulder while looking directly into Clare’s eyes.

“Now, Ms. Clare, if you don’t mind my asking. Where is the little one I will be attending to?” Mira inquired warmly as she began to look around the room once more.

“Oh, a little one? You mean like a kid?” Clare asked as a small hint of disappointment began to creep into the back of her mind.

“Yes, of course.” Mira practically sang as she once again got to her feet, as she began to bow deeply, causing the blanket to fall off her shoulders, leaving her standing naked in Clare’s living room once more. “I am here to help ease the burdens of motherhood off your tired shoulders. Mira said in a professional tone as she slowly took Clare’s hand into her own, examining the state of Clare’s nails.

“So what exactly can you do?” Clare asked, suddenly feeling embarrassed as she thought about all of the trouble she had just gone through, only to end up with a glorified babysitter.

“Why, I can do anything that you are too busy to do, Ms. Clare?” Mira said in a matter-of-fact tone. “I can handle cleaning, cooking, bathing, daily errands, and over 200 other household tasks.

“You can cook and clean?” Clare asked enthusiastically, brushing past the embarrassment she had felt only moments ago. “What kinds of things can you cook?” Clare asked a bit more eagerly than she had intended to.

“I am capable of cooking anything as long as I have the proper equipment and ingredients. If you’d like, I can fix something up for your little darling right now.”

“Oh, right.” Clare thought to herself, recalling what Mira had just told her. “You see, the thing is I don’t really have a little darling or a child, so does that mean you can’t cook for me?” Clare asked, sounding a bit more defeated than she had intended to.

“Of course, I can, Ms. Clare,” Mira said as she pulled Clare to her feet. “Just because you don’t have any children doesn’t mean that I still can’t help you maintain a happy and healthy household.”

Stunned, Clare looked into Mira’s eyes while she wore the biggest smile she had ever worn. “Do you think you could make something now?” Clare asked hesitantly as her stomach let out a loud growl, reminding her that she hadn’t eaten anything since breakfast.

“Without a doubt, Ms. Clare. Now, let’s go find the kitchen.” Mira happily replied as she gently guided Clare from the living room and into the kitchen while Clare quietly thought to herself about how nice it would be to enjoy freshly made meals in a perfectly clean house every day.

“This is going to be the best vacation ever,” Clare whispered as she watched Mira hurriedly begin to crack two eggs and place two pieces of bread into the toaster.

“My apologies, Ms. Clare. It would seem that your pantry is lacking many of the ingredients I would need to make something better.” Mira said in a tone that almost sounded disappointed, while Clare smeared butter onto a slice of hot toast.

“No, need to apologize, Mira. I can always go get groceries tomorrow.”

“That is excellent news, Ms. Clare. Do I have your permission to begin cleaning and tidying up your space while you sleep?” Mira asked as Clare began crunching into her toast.

“Sure, you have my permission,” Clare said excitedly as she pinched her arm to see if she was dreaming.

Part: 2

The next morning, Clare found herself waking in her bed, having nearly forgotten about the day previous, when a knock at her bedroom door brought it all back in an instant.

“Ms. Clare. The time is now ten in the morning. As requested, I have completed the cleaning of every room in your home with the exception of the one you are in now.” The stiff yet cheerily feminine voice called through the door.

Clare spent a moment attempting to collect her thoughts. She realized that she really had brought home her last package instead of leaving it behind like she was supposed to. “Too late to worry about that now,” Clare whispered to herself. She tossed aside her blankets and slid out of bed. “Thank you, Mira,” Clare said, still half asleep as she opened her bedroom door. There she was greeted by her newly acquired home assistant.

“It was my pleasure, Ms. Clare. I aim to please.” Mira sang with a small, flourishing bow that Clare found she was still unaccustomed to. “Would you like me to tidy your room now as well?” Mira said as her eyes looked past Clare, seemingly assessing the state of her room.

“Sure, you can, but first,” Clare said, pausing as she looked more closely at Mira in the mid-morning light streaming through her now-open curtains. “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize it last night, but you don’t appear to be wearing any clothes.” The woman in front of her seemed to be examining herself for the first time. “Let me get you something to wear,” Clare said. She quickly turned to her closet, spotted a modest maid uniform she had worn for Halloween, and held it up to Mira. “How about this?” Clare asked. “You're a little taller than I am, but it should be better than nothing.”

Several moments passed as Mira seemingly thought about the request that Clare had just made, but to Clare’s relief, Mira seemed to accept the dress and its accessories from her without a single complaint.

“You can change in here, and then if you want, you can tidy up as well,” Clare said while guiding Mira into her room and shutting the door behind her. “Now, what should I…” Clare’s thoughts were stopped in her tracks as she slowly made her way towards her living room to find everything cleaner than it had been in months. Still stunned, she slowly made her way into each room of her home to find that they were not only professionally cleaned, but there was also a fragrant scent hanging in the air that Clare could have sworn she recognized from somewhere familiar, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. “Best decision ever,” Clare whispered to herself as she made her way towards her coffee maker to find a fresh pot of coffee, a freshly cleaned mug, and creamer waiting for her. Clare began to prepare herself a cup of coffee before she caught a glimpse of Mira wearing her new outfit, making her way past her, carrying her laundry basket filled to the brim.

“I do hope the coffee is to your liking, Ms. Clare,” Mira called from the laundry room as the sound of her washer could be heard filling with water.

“It’s perfect, Mira,” Clare shouted while taking a seat on her sofa. “She even cleaned the couch.” Clare realized as she searched the smooth white surface for the red stain she had made after accidentally spilling a cup of wine the week prior. “You’re incredible.” Clare quickly added as she was joined by Mira, now wearing the attire she had been given. “Wow, that looks great on you.” Clare found herself saying as the fabric of Mira’s dress swished from side to side, complimenting her feminine figure. However, rather than say anything further, Mira simply bowed slightly while placing her hands in front of her and standing attentively as Clare continued to sip her cup of coffee.

Several minutes passed before Mira broke the silence while reverently presenting a small box to Clare. “Ms. Clare, please keep these in a safe place.

Clare slowly placed her mug down on the end table beside her and took the surprisingly heavy box from Mira’s waiting hands. Inside the box, there was a thick instruction manual and several expensive-looking tools that Clare assumed were for maintenance. Unsure of exactly what to say, Clare nodded to Mira appreciatively as she began to look through the thick manual with fabricated interest.

“Those will be necessary if you ever wish to make any adjustments to my programming or if I am ever in need of serious repairs,” Mira said as she turned to leave the room. “Please call me if you need me,” Mira shouted while making her way back to Clare’s bedroom.

“I will. Thank you.” Clare said as she returned her attention to the booklet in front of her when she suddenly found a section describing the process to adjust Mira’s programming. “Let’s see first power off the unit, remove the back plate, and then all I’d have to do is adjust these dials,” Clare mumbled to herself as she continued to read. “By default, each unit is set to Discovery Mode, making it possible for your unit to learn and adapt to the needs of your home.” Clare stopped for a moment as she thought about her interactions with Mira, remembering that when she was first powered on, she had been expecting to be a caretaker for a child. “I guess that makes sense.” Clare thought as she spent the next hour reading through the various modes until she was once again joined by Mira, who now took a seat at the end of the sofa.

“Ms. Clare, I am happy to report that your home is now clean, but there are several items that I will need to make your home perfect,” Mira reported dutifully as Clare continued to read. “Would you like me to register a payment method and purchase them for you?” Mira asked as Clare only vaguely paid attention.

“Yeah, sure. Do whatever you need to do.” Clare muttered as she furrowed her eyebrows, trying to make sense of the increasingly technical manuscript in front of her.

“Very good, Ms. Clare.” Mira enthusiastically replied as she quickly retrieved the debit and three credit cards from Clare’s purse and began carefully registering each of them into her internal systems, when suddenly she heard Clare calling to her from the living room.

“Hey, Mira. I have a question.” Clare asked, eyes still scanning the text of the manual as Mira reentered the room. “It says here that I need to power off if you and open your back cover before I can work on you, but how do you power off? I only ask that because I’m not entirely sure how you powered on in the first place.” Clare stated as she slowly placed the manual down to see Mira slowly removing her dress until she was only standing in her stockings and a pair of high heels Clare hadn’t seen outside of her closet in years.

“Ms. Clare, the answer you seek is quite simple,” Mira said in a far flatter tone than she had been using. “If you wish for me to shut down, all you need to do is ask. Once I have powered off, you can unfasten my back plate and use the maintenance tool in that box. Simply insert it into my lower back here.” Mira dutifully recited while reaching one of her hands behind her back, and lifted the back of her dress, revealing a small hole that Clare had not seen before. “Once the controls in my back have been revealed, you may fine-tune my programming to better meet the needs of your household. Does this explanation answer your question?”

As Mira spoke, Clare slowly reached her hand to retrieve what she thought was a finely tipped screwdriver, but as she examined it further, she could tell that it would fit into the hole Mira’s fingers were indicating. “Is changing these settings safe?” Clare hesitantly asked, fearing that she would end up ruining the best thing she had ever had.

“Ms. Clare, adjusting my settings is perfectly safe, and if at any time you wish to revert me back to the state I am now, you simply need to hold the bright blue reset button down for 30 seconds. Once that is done, I will power on much in the same way I did when we first met.”

“Is that really all there is to it?” Clare said as she got to her feet and slowly approached Mira’s exposed back as she contemplated her next actions. “Alright, Mira, would you mind powering off?” Clare asked as Mira’s entire body began to stiffen with her arms and legs spread far enough apart to keep her from falling over. “Alright, so I just put this here,” Clare said as she lifted Mira’s dress, allowing her hands to gently touch the surprisingly warm and soft material on Mira’s back. “Wow, it's so lifelike,” Clare whispered as she began to run her hands up and down Mira’s sides in amazement. “I’ll have to ask what her skin is made of when I wake her back up.” Clare declared as she remembered why she had powered Mira off in the first place. “Not too hard,” Clare whispered as she gingerly inserted the tool into Mira’s back until she heard a click, causing a large panel to slide open, revealing Mira’s controls. “Let’s see what we have here,” Clare mumbled as she gently positioned herself to better see all of the controls.

Clare spent several minutes referring to the manual and each of the controls within the now motionless Mira until she felt that she began to understand how everything worked. “Alright, so there is the blue reset button, and these sliders adjust the individual functions of Mira’s programming, and this dial contains the preprogrammed modes. “Clare thought as she tried to decide exactly what she wanted to change. “Let’s see right now, Mira is set to automatic, but I could also set her to Manual, Assistant, Mother, or Partner.” Uncertain, Clare pulled her hands away from the controls before she remembered that Mira said this was perfectly safe. “Right, if I mess something up, I just have to hold this button for 30 seconds,” Clare said while gently tracing her finger around the button's smooth edge, as she read the description for each of the preprogrammed modes. “Using manual means, I have to program every setting Mira is to use. Assistant will allow Mira to assist me, Mother will prime her systems to care for children, and partner will make Mira more affectionate towards me romantically.” Clare mused for several moments as she considered her options. “Mira is basically an assistant now, and the manual setting seems like it should only be used by someone who knows what they are doing. So that leaves just Mother or Partner.” Clare thought to herself as her hand slowly made its way to the large dial before she had a sudden realization. “It isn’t like Mira is going anywhere,” Clare said with a smile as she began to turn the dial. “I’ll try this mode first and then if it sucks I’ll try another one.” Clare declared as she turned the dial until it was set to the Mother mode.” Clare said excitedly as she began to pull the tool from Mira’s back, causing the back plate to slowly slide back into place until it was no longer visible. “Mira, please turn on,” Clare called out loud as she anxiously waited for Mira to begin moving for several minutes. “Did I break her?” Clare whispered in a panic as she prepared to insert the tool back into Mira’s back when suddenly Mira began to slowly turn around while scanning her eyes around the room in the same way she had done last night.

“Hello, Child,” Mira called out warmly as her eyes finally settled on Clare. “My name is Mira, and starting today, I will be your new mommy.”

“New mommy?” Clare asked hesitantly until she suddenly remembered that she had selected Mother Mode, but despite this, she still couldn’t help but be taken aback by the sudden shift in how Mira presented herself, despite looking and sounding exactly as she did previously.

“How old are you, precious? Are you unable to speak yet?” Mira inquired innocently while gently placing her hands on Clare’s shoulders. “There’s no need to be scared,” Mira added while Clare looked for the right words to say.

“I can speak.” Said Clare hesitantly as she could feel her face redden slightly beneath Mira’s gaze.

“That’s wonderful, sweetie.” Mira sang happily, revealing a bright white set of acrylic teeth. “Do you know how old you are, or have you not learned how to count yet?” Mira asked as her blue eyes shifted from blue to the same shade of green as Clare’s eyes.

For a moment, Clare considered simply telling Mira that she is 27, but she thought that if she did that, then Mira would most likely act the same way she had before Clare had changed her settings. Several long moments passed as Clare stared into Mira’s patiently waiting eyes. “My name is Clare. I am 3 years old.” Said Clare, holding up three fingers in front of her, causing Mira’s eyes to momentarily brighten before returning to normal.

“Oh, such a smart little girl you are, little Clare.” Mira sang happily as she pulled Clare into a warm embrace that lifted Clare from the floor and into Mira’s arms.

“Hey, put me down,” Clare shouted in a panic as Mira’s strong arms squeezed her tightly in a warm, inescapable hug, as Clare frantically thrashed her arms and legs while pressing her hands against Mira’s warm chest. “Mira Shutdown! Shutdown! Mira!” Clare shouted as loudly as a pressure began to build in her bladder as it was being squeezed in tightly. “Mira, please put me down. I have to pee.” Clare pleaded as Mira began to slowly walk into the bathroom. “No, put me down!” Clare demanded angrily while slapping Mira across her face.

“Clare, that was very naughty.” Mira declared flatly when suddenly she could sense the fabric of her dress being consumed by a warm and wet sensation. “Look at the mess you have made,” Mira said pointedly to Clare, who had become quiet and still.

“I wet myself. I can’t believe I just wet myself.” Clare whispered, realizing that her pajamas were completely soaked in pee. “I can’t believe I just did that,” Clare muttered to herself while Mira slowly lowered her to the floor, revealing that Clare had also drenched the soaked dress Mira was wearing.

“Clare, it's alright,” Mira said calmly as she knelt down beside Clare. “It's completely normal for someone your age to have an accident every now and again.” Mira continued while removing Clare’s soaked clothing with a warm, understanding smile. “Now Mommy wants you to go straight to the shower to get yourself clean while Mommy gets this all cleaned up,” Mira said while gently guiding Clare into the bathroom.

Not seeing any reason to argue, Clare dutifully made her way into the shower to begin cleaning herself up, while Clare began cleaning the wet spot on the floor for several minutes until she shouted at Clare from outside the bathroom door.

“Mommy needs to go to the grocery store to get some yummy ingredients to make a very special dinner for you. Do you think you can handle getting yourself dressed on your own, or do you want Mommy to pick something out for you?” Mira asked as steam began to seep out into the hallway, as Clare slowly opened the bathroom door.

“I’ll be fine! Just leave me alone!” Clare shouted indignantly while she began to wash her hair with her back turned towards Mira.

Sensing that Clare was upset, Mira quietly closed the door to the bathroom as she went back to the living room to find Mira’s purse. “Can’t have my little one trying to go out on her own.” Mira thought to herself as she draped Clare’s purse over her shoulder and slowly made her way to the door, considering everything she would need to best care for Clare. “I’ll be back soon, baby girl!” Clare shouted loudly as she opened and shut the front door with a thud.

Hearing the sound of the door closing, Clare quickly turned the water to the shower off to try to hear if she was alone. “Mira, you there? Mira!” Clare shouted at the top of her lungs, half expecting to hear the door to the bathroom open at any second. For a moment, a sense of relief washed over Clare, followed by a small laugh as she turned the water on to finish getting herself cleaned up. “Looks like the Mother Mode is off the table,” Clare whispered as she let the warm water rinse her frustrations away until the water coming from the shower no longer felt warm. Feeling satisfied that she was finally clean, Clare quickly made her way from the bathroom and into her bedroom to change her clothes. Now dressed, Clare decided that her best bet to get Mira reset would be to speak with her directly and rationally explain to her that she needs to have her mode changed back to the way it was earlier this morning.

Several hours passed as Clare waited in her living room, gently holding the tool she would need to access Mira’s system controls, when suddenly the front door opened, revealing Mira with at least a dozen large bags from a variety of shops that included some that she recognized, but some that she didn’t as well.

Not wanting to waste any time, Clare slowly got to her feet as Mira glided through the living room and into the kitchen without so much as glancing in Clare’s direction. “Let’s get this over with.” Clare thought to herself as she quickly made her way to the kitchen to find Mira unloading one of the many bags she had been carrying. For a moment, Clare stood in the doorway of the kitchen holding the tool in her hand, weighing the best way to approach the situation. “She didn’t seem to listen to me the last time I asked her to shut down.” Clare thought to herself as she decided to try to catch Mira while she was distracted. “Mira shutdown!” Clare shouted as she sprinted to where Mira stood while thrusting the tool directly at the small of Mira’s back. Suddenly, Mira’s upper body quickly turned around and wrapped her arms tightly around Clare. “No, let me go!” Clare shouted frantically as she felt a firm tug pulling the tool from her hand. “I want you to go back to the way you were!” Clare pleaded loudly just before Mira quickly shoved something into her mouth, making it impossible to speak.

“Clare, that was very naughty. You could have really hurt Mommy with this.” Mira said with a tone of mild disappointment before gently placing the tool on the countertop behind her. “Mommy was going to wait until she had put everything away, but you are just not leaving me any choice. Come along, Clare, it's time to get ready for a nap.” Mira calmly stated as she gently began to take several of the bags into her open hand.

“A nap?” Clare said as she began to push her arms against Mira’s chest in the hopes that she could get herself free. However, after several long minutes of Struggling, Clare soon realized that she was no longer in the kitchen and was instead being laid on her bed. “That’s not going to happen!” Clare shouted as she tried to roll herself off the bed, but before she was able to, she could feel a weight drop on her chest as Mira gently sat herself down on Clare’s stomach while holding a brown bottle and a rag.

“Mommy is sorry for having to do this, Clare, but you really are not leaving me any choice,” Mira said as she carefully soaked the cloth in her hand with whatever was in the bottle.

“Wait, what is that?” Clare shouted as she suddenly realized what was about to happen. “Please don’t.” Clare began to beg as Mira slowly placed the cloth drenched in what Clare did not realize was Chloroform. Realizing she didn’t have much time, Clare frantically attempted to free herself from the assault on her nose by pushing Mira off the bed, but no matter what she did, Mira continued to hold the rag firmly in place over her mouth and nose until Clare could feel herself being pulled into darkness as her mind became quiet and still.

Part: 3

It had been several hours since Clare had lost consciousness and the first sensation she could sense from what she thought must be her bed was an unusual chill running up her legs that caused her to stir slightly until she suddenly remembered her failed attempt to reset Mira back to normal. “Mira?” Clare whispered quietly half expecting her to instantly make herself known, but when she didn’t Clare slowly began to push herself into a sitting position to find that she was indeed still in her room. “What on earth am I wearing?” Clare whispered as she looked down at where her pants should have been to find that in there place was a white pull up snugly wrapped around her waist, and a bright pink shirt embroidered with “Mommy’s Girl” on the front in big balloon style letters. “Really should have told her I was 13.” Clare whispered to herself just as the door to her room squeaked as a brightly lit set of green eyes silently peeked through the crack in the door. “That you Mira?” Clare hesitantly said causing the door to open widely revealing Mira standing in the door way wearing what Clare assumed what a pair of her jeans, and to Clare’s dismay Mira also appeared to be wearing a bright pink shirt that resembled the one she was wearing. “Baby’s Mommy?” Clare read out loud as Mira smiled brightly.

“Oh such a big girl! Only three and you can already read!” Mira shrieked with glee as she slowly made her way closer to where Clare was laying on the bed before gently taking a seat beside her. “Did Mommy’s girl have a nice nap?” Mira asked warmly as her hand gently reached towards the padding of her pull up. “And still dry.” Mira said enthusiastically as her hand slid to the thigh of Clare’s leg. “Clare do you need to use the potty?” Mira asked innocently as Clare glared at her harshly while remaining completely motionless.

Several tense moment’s passed as Clare fought the urge to try to push her way passed Mira, and out the front door. “No, just stay calm.” Clare thought to herself as she gently nodded her head to Mira’s question. “She is stronger than you are. There is no way you’ll be able to get passed her.” Clare continued to think as Mira slowly took Clare’s hand into her own and slowly led the way into the bathroom.

“Careful not to trip precious.” Mira said as Clare took her place in front of the toilet before turning to look back away. “Just pretend I’m not even here.” Mira said with a smile as she listened to the rustling sound of Clare’s pull up slowly slipping down her legs followed by a waterfall of fresh tinkle flowing into the cool toilet water that slowly faded away to be replaced by the sound of a light trickle. Mira waited a few moments longer as she was rewarded with the sound of rustling that let her know Clare was finished. “Such a big girl!” Mira cheered excitedly as Clare flushed the toilet and went to wash her hands without so much as glancing in Mira’s direction.

“Why am I in a diaper Mira?” Clare asked flatly as she waited for whatever convoluted reason she would come up with.

“Well Clare, I think it should be obvious.” Mira said in a matter of fact tone that made Clare feel as if she were about to be lectured by her own mother. “For starters you obviously had an accident earlier this afternoon that nearly ruined Mommy’s pretty dress, but even if you hadn’t done that you would still be dressed as you are now.” Mira said while crossing her arms and waiting for Clare to finish drying her hands.

“Wait, you have another reason for dressing me this way?” Clare asked hesitantly as she turned to meet Mira’s stern gaze. “What reason could you possibly have to think I need to be dressed like this?” Clare practically shouted as her hands balled up into fists.

“What does Mommy’s shirt say and what does your shirt say?” Mira asked bluntly.

“Your shirt says “Baby’s Mommy” and my shirt says “Mommy’s Baby”.” Clare said as she let out a sigh unsure of the point Mira was trying to make.

“So Mommy’s baby really can read.” Mira retorted while she reached into the back pocket of her jeans, and produced the her own instruction manual. “So, then you won’t have any problem telling me what this says.” Mira scolded as she quickly opened the manual to a specific page and held it out for Clare to take into her hands. “Read this.” Mira said while pointing to a block of text that was written in a bright red font.

“Warning: Do not attempt any maintenance on any part of this unit without first powering it off. Failure to do so could result in damage to the unit or personal injury or death.” Clare said feeling her mouth become dry as she recalled how close she was to inserting Mira’s tool into her back.

“Serious injury or death Clare.” Mira said with a pause as she placed her hands on Clare’s shoulders.“I don’t care what happens to me, but I’d want to die if I ever let anything bad happen to you.” Mira said flatly before quickly snatching the manual from Clare’s hands. “You could have died and that’s why Mommy will be supervising all of your activities from now on.”

“You mean you were just trying to keep me from getting hurt?” Clare whispered as her mind scrambled to find any reason to disbelieve what Mira had just said. “But then why did you drug me!” Clare demanded as she mimicked her mouth and nose being covered by the rag Mira had used to knock her unconscious.

“Clare do you even remember how you were acting?” Mira asked standing up straight and placing her hands on her hips. “There I was putting the things I had purchased for you away when suddenly you leapt behind me trying to get yourself electrocuted, and then when I tried to stop you began thrashing about in a panic.” Mira recalled as those frantic moments replayed themselves in her mind. “So, I’m sorry, but I think having to wear a cute shirt that matches mine is more than fair.”

Hearing this Clare wanted to argue, to demand that she be allowed to change her clothes, but the more she thought about what could have happened if she had succeeded with her the more she found herself agreeing with Mira’s perspective.

“Now with that out of the way.” Mira said while lifting her voice and Clare into her arms. “Mommy has prepared a special dinner just for her precious little girl.” She said with a flourish while practically running towards a TV tray set by the living room sofa where a large plate of chicken dumplings and steamed veggies sat waiting for her.

Surprised Clare glanced from the plate to Mira. “That’s right you said you knew how to cook.” Clare said as she recalled the modest meal Mira had made for her last night. “Thank you.” Clare said as she was slowly lowered behind the large tray.

“Of course precious.” Mira said with a bright smile as she watched Clare reach for the plastic fork she had set out for Clare to use. “You start eating that and Mommy will go grab you a cup of milk.” Mira continued just as Clare was about to take her first bite.

“This is so good!” Clare exclaimed as Mira gently placed a large pink sippy cup on her tray. “I could get get used to eating like this.”

“I’m glad to here you like it Clare.” Mira said while gently taking the open seat on the sofa beside Clare. “And if you like that then Mommy knows she has at least another dozen recopies in her data banks that you are going to love!” Mira added while quietly watching Clare eat her fill.

After Clare took her first bite she was reminded of the fact that she had not had anything since the eggs and toast Mira had made for her the night prior which allowed her to not only eat her entire meal far more quickly than she would have otherwise. “That was so good.” Clare said with a smile as she began to reach for the bright pink cup that sat in front of her that had small pictures of castles, rainbows, and unicorns speckled around the entire cup that Clare soon realized was filled with ice cold milk. “I could get used to this.” Clare thought to herself as Mira sat on the sofa beside her waiting for her to finish.

“Mommy is glad her baby girl enjoyed it.” Mira said while giving Clare a gentle hug around her shoulders and patting Clare’s face with a moist cloth for several seconds longer than Clare would have liked.

“Alright, I am clean already.” Clare fussed until Mira finally began to pull the cloth away from Clare’s face and she then began to clear away Clare’s plate and tray while setting Clare’s cup on Clare’s lap.

“Stay here while Mommy cleans up the kitchen. Understood little girl?” Mira said while sliding the remote control for the television into Clare’s hands. “Alright?” Mira asked with an expectant expression on her face.

“Alright Mira. I’ll stay right here.” Clare said innocently as she turned on the TV and selected Netflix from the main menu.

Seemingly satisfied with Clare’s response Mira silently tucked away the TV tray behind the sofa, and made her way back to the kitchen without looking back to check on Clare. Once Mira was out of the room Clare fumbled from one show to the next on Netflix as she quietly thought about the situation she was in and what she should do next. “This will work.” Clare said to herself as she found a children’s cartoon about a blue puppy detective that honestly reminded her of what Sherlock Holmes would look like if he were animated as a cartoon dog. “Now, I should be able to think.” Clare thought to herself as she slowly began to tune out what was playing on the screen as she began to try to come up with a plan while occasionally sipping on the milk in her cup. “Maybe I could run for the door and run across the street to one of my neighbor’s houses” Clare thought to herself before looking down at how she was currently dressed. “If I’m going to do that I am going to at the very least need a pair of pants.” Clare continued while glancing around the room to make sure that she was still alone. “Maybe I could convince Mira to take me somewhere with lots of people.” She thought with a smile as she tried to think of all the places that parents would take their children. “If I ask to go some place like that I can’t imagine she would be able to raise much of an objection.” Mira chuckled at this thought when suddenly a sharp pressure in her lower stomach made her jump to her feet as she began to quickly make her way to the bathroom while clenching herself tightly. “I really gotta go.” Clare murmured in a panic as she reached for the bathroom door only to find that the door was locked. “Locked?” Clare said in confusion as she tried several times to get the door handle to turn before she realized that Mira must have locked it at some point while she was sitting on the sofa in the loving room. “Mira!” Clare shouted eagerly as she began to run to the kitchen in a panic. “Mira I need to use the bathroom.” Clare shouted as she entered the kitchen to find Mira drying the dishes the dishes that she had just washed seemingly not hearing Clare’s shouts. “Mira I need to use the bathroom, but it’s locked.” Clare said as she stood beside Mira trying to get her attention.

“Baby girl. My name isn’t Mira.” Mira said flatly as she continued to dry the same pot she had been drying since Clare arrived in the kitchen. “Ask Mommy nicely and she’ll open the door for you.” Mira said without so much as glancing in Clare’s direction.

Feeling desperate Clare felt like she had no other choice, but to swallow her pride. “Fine. Mommy can you please unlock the bathroom door, so I can go potty?” Clare asked as sweat began to bead on her forehead as she realized she would be fighting a losing battle if Mira didn’t hurry.

“Of course I can precious.” Mira said warmly as she set the now dry pot down on the stove before leading the way back to the bathroom. “Mommy has such a big girl. Already potty trained at three.” Mira said warmly as she gently pulled a ring of keys Clare didn’t recognize from her pants pocket. “Let’s see which key was it again?” Mira mused quietly switching from one key to the next while Clare began shifting her weight from one foot to the next.

“Please hurry Mira.” Clare whined as she realized Mira had stopped sorting through the keys. “I mean Mommy. Please hurry Mommy.” Clare quickly corrected causing a look of satisfaction on Mira’s face when suddenly Clare felt a sharp pain that brought tears to her eyes as she could feel herself starting to poop her pull up.

“Here it is.” Mira said with a content smile as she slowly turned to Clare while opening the door. “Clare? Clare what’s wrong?” Mira said just as her nasal receptors detected the smell of poop. “Come now Baby Girl you can still make it.” Mira said while pulling Clare into the bathroom, pulling down her pull up, and setting her on the toilet while examining the seat of Clare’s pull up. “Oh sweetie. Look, there’s no need to be sad.” Mira said enthusiastically as she showed Clare that there was only the smallest of brown stains in the white padding of her pull up. “See, you made it to the potty just in time!” Mira shouted while shaking her hands festively.

“I did?” Clare said as a wave of relief allowed Clare to relax just enough to focus on pushing out the mushy mass that nearly escaped into her pull up. “Thank goodness.” Clare sighed as just as she could hear the sound of her troubles splashing into the water and after several more minutes Clare found herself reaching for the toilet paper only to find her hands being blocked my Mira. “Hey, what gives?” Clare said hesitantly while Mira collected several sheets of toilet paper into her hand.

“Let Mommy take care of the icky party.” Mira said while making a scrunched up face that Clare couldn’t help but find amusing. “After all things like this are what I was designed to handle.” Mira said lovingly as she gently wiped Clare until she was completely clean. “All done Baby Girl.” Mira announced triumphantly as she helped Clare off of the toilet while raising her pull up into place. “Now, what would Mommy’s baby like to do?” Mira asked attentively while leading Clare out of the bathroom and shutting the door behind them. “Maybe she wants to watch more TV?” Mira asked innocently as she quickly used the key she was carrying to lock the door tight. “Or maybe she’d rather put together a big puzzle with Mommy!” Mira suggested with a large smile that made Clare realize doing the puzzle might earn her some bonus points with Mira.

“Oh, I love doing puzzles!” Clare said hoping Mira was buying her fabricated enthusiasm. “Yes, let’s put a big puzzle together right away!” Clare said sounding how she imagined an excited child would sound. “Come on I’ll show you where I keep them!” Clare said while running to one of the spare closets in the hallway that she used to hold a variety of board games and puzzles she had either purchased or been given throughout the years.

“Oh my.” Mira said as Clare revealed a stack of puzzles of varying sizes and piece counts. “You really must love puzzles.” Mira said as she watched Clare look through each of the puzzles in the stack. “Well, pick the one you want to do most and you and Mommy can do it together.”

“The one I want to do the most?” Clare mumbled to herself as her eyes found the 1000 pieces puzzles she had gotten years ago that depicted the skyline of a fantasy kingdom, but the last time she had tried to put it together she found herself giving up before she had even completed the frame of the puzzle. “I’ve always wanted to put this one together, but it’s too hard.” Clare said just as Mira took the puzzle into her hands.

“Oh this is such a pretty picture.” Mira said as she studied the aesthetics and symmetry of the image. “Yes, I think I can see why you’d want to put this one together.” Mira said as her gaze met Clare’s uncertain expression.

“I mean I would love to finally put it together, but it was too hard.” Clare said lamely as she went back to searching through the stack of puzzles beside her.

“Come now Clare.” Mira said as she took Clare by the hand and pulled her out of the closet. “We’ll put this puzzle together in no time at all.” Mira said with an aura of determination that Clare had yet to see.

“Alright, we can try.” Clare enthusiastically as she couldn’t help but feel a little excited about the possibility of getting to see what the completed version of this puzzle with her own eyes. “Let’s make some space here.” Clare said while clearing her fruit bowl and place mats off of her kitchen table.

“Great idea Baby Girl! We should have plenty of space if we put it together here.” Mira added while gently swiping a cleaning cloth over the table to make sure it was still clean before she began to open the box and dump all of the pieces out on to the table.

As the pieces of the puzzles fell out of the box Clare could see several sections of pieces that looked like they were still put together from the last time she had tried to assemble it, but rather than say anything she simple began to sort the pieces to make assembling the outer edge of the puzzle easier. However, as Clare slowly examined each piece she could clearly see Mira quickly assessing and grabbing various pieces as she began to put the puzzle together.

“This is so much fun.” Mira sang as her eyes rapidly scanned and itemized each piece allowing her to place pieces together faster than even the best of puzzle enthusiasts. However, in her haste to put the puzzle together as quickly as possible Mira failed to notice Clare sitting beside her unable to grab even a single piece before Mira quickly scooped it into her fingers. “Isn’t this fun Clare?” Mira said as she turned her head to see Clare sitting without so much as touching a single piece. “Hey, Clare? Aren’t you going to help?” Mira asked quizzically as she carefully studied Clare’s expression before glancing down at the table to realize she had almost assembled the entire puzzle on her own.

“I want to help, but I don’t want to get in your way.” Clare said hesitantly as she gently turns a couple of the pieces she had managed to pick up in her fingers causing Mira’s eyes to close momentarily.

“What happened?” Mira mused to herself as she processed this moment and the moments that led up to it as she realized that in her haste to complete her task as efficiently has possible she had neglected one of her system’s primary directives. Now aware of the problem Mira sets the pieces she has in her hand on the table. “I’m sorry to make you feel like you were in the way Clare.” Mira says as she slides the pieces closer to Clare until they are sitting neatly between them. “By my calculations we still have 219 pieces left to assemble. Do you think you can help me? Mira asks as she gently pulls their chairs closer together.

“Of course!” Clare says enthusiastically as she assesses the parts of the puzzle that still need to be completed. “I’ll focus on putting the rest of the outer frame together while you finish up this section here.” Clare suggests as Mira silently nods to Clare’s suggestion.

Now working together Mira notices an immediate change in Clare’s demeanor and posture that suggested to her Clare is actually enjoying herself doing this activity. Quietly Mira makes a mental note to herself as she slows her pace until it is only slightly faster than the pace Clare is setting. “She really is such a good girl.” Mira thinks to herself when suddenly Clare stops moving with a look of surprise etched on her face.

“I didn’t do that.” Clare thought to herself as a warm sensation began to spread along the inside of her pull up. “I didn’t do that.” Clare whispered as her hand slowly reached down only to find the front of her pull up was very wet. “I did.” Clare said as Mira’s hand gently rested on Clare’s head.

“Its alright Clare.” Mira said gently as she pulled Clare until her head was resting on her shoulder. “These things happen sometimes. That’s why they’re called accidents.” Mira said reassuringly hoping that it would ease Clare’s mind. “Come on let’s finish putting this together, and then we can get you cleaned into some nice comfy bed time clothes.” Mira offered gently.

Clare sat for a moment allowing her head to sink on the shockingly soft material of Mira’s shoulder for several moments as she watched Mira quickly slot piece after piece into place until there were only about 20 pieces left until the puzzle was done. Thinking that the puzzle would be done in a matter of moments Clare once again took a piece into her hand as she found where it needed to go, and pressed it into place. “I’ve wanted to see this puzzle be put together for years.” Clare thought as she placed her discomfort into the back of her mind.

“We did it!” Mira and Clare both shouted enthusiastically as Clare put the final piece into place allowing the two of them to marvel at each and every detail of the image that lay before them for several minutes until Clare slowly got to her feet.

“Mommy may I please go potty?” Clare asked still admiring the completed image that she was only able to assemble thanks to Mira’s help.

“Of course precious. Let’s go potty and then get ready for bed.” Mira said with a smile as she led Clare to the bathroom and unlocked the door allowing Clare a few minutes to herself as she silently thought to herself. “I never thought you would actually have an accident, but I’m glad you did.”

Part: 4

The aroma of lavender, chamomile, and another scent Clare couldn’t quite put her finger on filled the air of the bathroom as Mira delicately poured liquid from three bottles into the bathtub while it was being filled with steamy hot water. Seemingly satisfied with her work Mira slowly stands and moves each of the fragrant bottles into a drawer of the bathroom’s cabinet while humming a melody that sounded vaguely familiar to Clare.

“There once the tub fills your bath will be perfect.” Mira said warmly as she turned her attention to Clare who had been watching silently while resting her back against a fluffy towel that had been dutifully hung and folded on the towel rack. “Now, let’s get this off of you.” Mira said while slightly bending over to help Clare step out of her wet pull up. “Would you like some help getting undressed honey?” Mira asked innocently as Clare slowly approached the bath tub allowing her a faint glimpse of her and Mira’s reflection as they stood side by side wearing matching pink tops.

“No I think I can take it from here Mira.’ Clare said calmly as she allowed herself to deeply inhale the rich tapestry of smells that now danced gingerly up her nose as she removed her pink shirt and bra. “Its been too long since I’ve taken a bath that smells this nice.” Clare said as she slowly stepped into the tub one foot at a time when suddenly Clare could feel her right foot slipping out from underneath her.

“Watch your step baby girl.” Mira said while instinctively positioning herself to keep Clare from falling to the floor. “After all there’s no need to rush. The water isn’t going anywhere” Mira lovingly added as Clare slowly sank into the warm with her eyes closed. “Now, Mommy wants her girl to not only be clean, but relaxed as well.” Mira whispered in an attempt to not spoil the relaxing atmosphere that the steam from the bath water was creating.

“What do you mean?” Clare said quietly as she slowly opened her eyes to find that Mira had already left the room leaving Clare by herself with a moment to think. “I don’t recall Mira offering to fix me a bath like this when she was not set to Mother Mode. Maybe she would have if I had asked?” Clare mused as she dipped her hands into the water and carefully began washing her chest and shoulders as she slowly lowered herself deeper into the water until only her head remained above the water, and she closed her eyes while taking several deep soothing breaths.

Several long luxurious minutes passed when Clare could sense Mira had come back into the bathroom as her shadow momentarily blocked the light from above from hitting her eyes. Clare feeling completely at ease in the moment didn’t bother to look to see what Mira was doing, she could here the sound of small boxes being opened and plastic wrappers being torn.

“Raise your right foot for me.” Mira said as her hand dipped into the water and her fingers meticulously wrapped around Clare’s right foot just as Clare began to raise it out of the water while slightly parting her eyelids to see what Mira was planning. “Oh my goodness.” Mira said disapprovingly as she ran her fingers around the bottom and sides of Clare’s foot. “Yes, I was right to think you might need this. “Mira said with a quick glance and smile at Clare who was now watching attentively with her eyes fully open. “There’s nothing to worry about baby girl.” Mira said with a widening smile as she placed something resembling a large porous bar of soap into the palm of her hand. “Just try to relax and let Mommy do all the work.” Mira said while gently rubbing the bar on Clare’s foot in a smooth circular motion causing Clare to instantly recognize Mira was scrubbing her foot with a pumice stone.

“This feels amazing.” Clare thought to herself as she allowed her eyes to ease shut once more listening to the gentle movement of Clare’s hands as she slowly cleared away built up dead skin that had accumulated for months.

“Go ahead and raise your left foot now.” Mira said while gently lowering Clare’s freshly cleaned foot into the water and Clare lazily presented her left foot to Mira. “I’m glad to see you are enjoying this.” Mira said while she began assessing the best place to start on Clare’s left foot. “So baby girl? What did you do to get your feet in such bad shape?” Mira whispered innocently wishing to learn more about the girl she was looking after.

Clare feeling no need to hide or make up a nonsensical story in this moment spoke in the same whispered tone Mira had been using. “I deliver packages for a living, so I guess I do spend a fair amount of time on my feet walking, lifting, and carrying a lot of heavy boxes.” Clare said as she fought the urge to yawn. “Its not glamorous, but it pays the bills.” Clare said while gently opening one of her eyes to find Mira quietly listening as she worked. “But it sure is exhausting.” Clare said sleepily through an escaping yawn.

“Do you live here all on your own then Clare?” Mira asked as she began adding the information Clare had just given her to her memory bank. “Any family or friends?” Mira continued as her hands carefully began scrubbing the bottom of Clare’s toes.

A sudden sadness began to creep into Clare’s mind causing her eyes to begin watering slightly forcing a single tear to fall into the warm pool of water beneath her. “I used to have family, but they’re not around anymore.” Clare whispered as she struggled to keep her voice from cracking as she imagined their smiling faces. “My Dad, Brother, and my Mom all died in a car crash about four months back because they were coming to visit me.” Clare said as her hands quickly shot out of the water and cupped snugly around her face. “It was my fault. If I had made more time to go home to visit then they wouldn't have been on the road that day.” Clare said as her relaxed exterior quickly broke down revealing invisible wounds that Clare had been hiding all this time in hopes that they would fade away.

Mira allowed Clare a few moments to herself as she silently finished the last spot on Clare’s foot while her internal systems continued to update with each word Clare spoke. “That poor woman.” Mira thought to herself as she gently placed Clare’s foot back into the water and slowly slid herself on to the side of the bathtub while slowly reaching for Clare’s wrists. “Let it out baby girl.” Mira said calmly as she gently pulled Clare from the water until she was able to wrap Clare tightly in a hug. “You don’t have to keep this inside any more.” Clare whispered while gently rocking back and forth running her fingers through Clare’s long blonde hair meticulously recalling every moment that she had spent with Clare. “You must have been so sad and lonely with no one to confide in.” Mira thought as she closed her eyes with a smile while whispering. “Ms. Clare thank you for trusting me.”

About an hour had passed, but it wasn’t until the steam from Clare’s bath water had completely vanished that Clare had realized the water her legs were laying in had gone cold quite some time ago. “How long have we been here like this?” Clare thought to herself as her eyes looked up to find Mira’s patient smile and strong arms holding her tightly while rhythmically rocking back in forth while humming the same melody she had been humming earlier. “I think I could get used to this.” Clare thought with a smile while she slowly closed her eyes savoring Mira’s soothing melody as it playfully mingled with the rich aroma of lavender still lingering in the air.

“Baby girl?” Mira whispered while tenderly brushing hair away a hair from Clare’s droopy dark eyes. “We should get you out of the water. Mommy would feel just awful if she let you catch a cold.” Mira continued as Clare hardly moved. “Clare please?” Mira pleaded as she started to slowly stand up forcing Clare to stir sleepily. “Come let’s get you into some warm clothes.” Mira suggested while helping Clare to her feet and out of the water before lovingly drying her off with a fresh towel.

Part: 5

Silently gliding down the hallway Mira gracefully gathered several shopping bags into her arms while humming to herself as she made her way back into Clare’s bedroom where Clare sat in the same place Mira had left her only moments ago. “Here we are baby girl.” Mira sang as she entered the room with a gentle flourish before setting each of the bags on to the bed beside Clare.

“What’s all of this?” Clare asked hesitantly as she finished drying her hair with a towel.

Mira allowed a moment to pass as she considered her words carefully before gently sitting beside Clare revealing the contents of a bag that she was certain Clare wouldn’t be surprised by. “This one has more snugly soft pull ups to help keep that little bottom of your nice and dry.”

“Oh yeah, I guess it makes sense you would have more of those floating around.” Clare said with a shrug as she glanced down at her special area. “I still honestly can’t believe I actually wet myself.” Clare said with a bashful smile and a nervous laugh before quickly adding “And I can’t believe I’m saying this but I actually like how comfy they are to wear.”

Hearing Clare’s word’s Mira quickly reaches for another bag slowly revealing the contents as she spoke. “Mommy agrees that your pull ups are super comfy, and if you use these they will feel even better.” Mira said while presenting a fresh bottle of baby powder, oil, and wet wipes. Several moments pass as Mira gently set the assortment of items on her lap all the while studying Clare’s blank expression.

Clare reached for the bottle of baby powder and examined it as she thought to herself for a moment while gently turning the lid of the powder causing an eruption of white powder to cover her hair and face. “Well I guess I’m wearing it now.” Clare said as she struggled to wipe the powder off of her face with her hands until Mira silently opened the package of wet wipes, and began gently dabbing Clare’s face until it was clean once more. “You’re really good at this Mira.” Clare said with a tone of astonishment that caused Mira to momentarily pause before lowering the wipe from Clare's face.

“Thank you. Baby Girl.” Mira said warmly as she gently took the powder from Clare’s hands as she slow rose to her feet pulling Clare off of the bed to stand beside her. “Mommy takes her Primary Directive very seriously to ensure the people I am charged with caring for are as comfortable as possible.” Mira said with a little bow before spreading the towel Clare had been using across the top of the bed. “And because Mommy is so good at what she does. Mommy hopes that her Baby Girl will trust her.” Mira said while gesturing for Clare to lay down on top of the towel.

“Alright. I can’t really go on about how good you are at your job, and then suddenly act like I don’t trust you.” Clare said with a resigned smile as she slid further up the bed at Mira’s request, and watched as Mira opened a tall bottle of clear oil, pouring a small amount in her hand and gently began spreading it on Clare’s butt by picking Clare up by her feet. “It feels warm.” Clare found herself whispering when suddenly she could feel Mira’s hand gently applying lotion on her special parts causing Clare to fidget slightly and her cheeks became flush.

“All done with that.” Mira calmly called out while taking a fresh pull up, and slowly pushing it up Clare’s legs. “And now we sprinkle a little of this.” Mira said routinely while gently sprinkling a bit of powder under the front of Clare’s pull up. “How’s that feel precious?” Mira asked while her hands discretely rustled in the final bag Clare could see set on the bed.

Clare wanted to say that if she had been asked to do anything this a day ago she would have screamed, but now that she was in this moment with Mira she felt completely at ease. “Not so bad." Clare responded honestly before asking. "What else have you got in there?” Clare asked as Mira’s hands continued to fidget in the bag.

“Just a few more things that Mommy thinks you will like.” Mira said as she slowly began to present the final set of items. “So this is a set of plastic panties.” Mira held up a plastic coated pair of white panties adorned with delicately woven pink lace. “Wearing these will help add an extra lair of protection to your pull up and keep it from leaking if it ever gets too full or slips out of position.” Mira added while cautiously bringing the panties to Clare’s feet waiting for a wave of resistance that to her surprise didn’t come. “Up we go, and raise your tush.” Mira sang as Clare instinctively raised her hips allowing the panties to slip into place.

“Its a little tight?” Clare said hesitantly while gently lifting her head to catch a glimpse of the panties Mira had just put on her.

“They are supposed to be a little tight. Otherwise they won’t be much help with preventing leaks.” Mira responded truthfully while holding up a pink and white garment in front of Clare. “And this Mommy will have you wear because she thinks it will make you look adorable!” Mira said happily as she turned the garment to reveal a pink onesie decorated with white trim, buttons, and across the chest it had bright white letters.

“Mommy’s Little Princess.” Clare said sigh as she slowly sat upright and raising her arms. “I had a feeling you might suggest something like this.” Clare said with a smile as she closed her eyes remembering how Clare gave her a shoulder to cry on when she needed it most tonight.

Not wanting to waste any time Mira gently slipped the pink fabric over Clare’s head gently guiding her head and arms through their appropriate holes as she updated her care parameters. “And now we just snap these closed, and we are all done!” Mira said loudly while she and Clare both raised there hands up over there head in mock celebration, and she began to pack up the bags she had brought in eyeing the final item she had discretely. “No need to rush to the finish.” Mira thought while Clare stepped in front of the mirror that hung discretely behind Clare’s closet door.

“Do I look adorable?” Clare asked as she slowly twirled in front of the closet door carefully eyeing the increased padding between her legs.

“Of course I do!” Mira sang happily as she quickly ran behind Clare, and gently wrapped her arms around her chest while resting her head on Clare’s left shoulder. “But what do you think?” Mira whispered as she gently began to sway side to side listening to the beat of Clare’s heart.

“I kind of like it.” Clare said with a smile as she gently placed her hands on top of Mira’s. “It feels like I’m dressed in a warm tight hug.” Clare quickly added as another yawn escaped passed her guard.

“Sounds like its time for someone to get a little shuteye.” Mira whispered while gently pulling Clare away from their reflection and over to the bed. “Mira quickly removed the wet towel, bags, and trash from the bed before finally pulling down the blankets. “Come get nice and cozy.” Mira said while gently patting her hand on the bed.

“Don’t have to ask me twice.” Clare said as she allowed Mira to help her lay down, and gently tuck her in like her parents would have done years ago.

“There your all snug like a bug in a rug.” Mira said with a cheery smile as she gently sat beside Clare on the bed. “Do you need anything precious?” Mira asked while gently stroking her fingers against Clare’s cheeks.

“Maybe a something to drink?” Clare said with a reluctant sigh. “And just after I got all comfortable too.”

“Wait here a moment precious.” Mommy will be back before you even know that I’m gone.

“Alright.” Clare said aloud only to find that Mira had already vanished. “How does she even do that?” Clare whispered in amazement as she began to wonder how fast Mira could run in a race when suddenly she noticed Clare already coming back into her room with her hands held behind her back. “Mira how fast can you run?” Clare blurted out as Mira rejoined her on the bed.

“Don’t know.” Mira responded after several seconds. “It doesn’t appear those tests were performed after my assembly. Would you like to find out sometime?” Mira asked as Clare’s eyes suddenly grew wide.

“I bet you are at least as fast as an Olympian.” Clare said with a thoughtful chuckle while she imagined Mira participating in the 100 Meter dash along side world class competitors from around the world, and then standing at the top of a podium wearing a gold medal.

“I think you are giving me just a little too much credit.” Mira said softly as she reached beside her to turn off the bedside lamp cloaking the room in darkness.

“What gives Mira? I thought you were going to get me a drink.” Clare asked as Mira delicately slid her arm behind Clare’s head.

“I did. Open your mouth please, and drink your fill.” Mira whispered quietly as she gently placed the nipple of a fresh bottle into Clare’s mouth. After a moment Mira assumed that Clare wasn’t ready to be cared for like this, but just as Mira prepared to remove the nipple from Clare’s lips she could hear the sound of Clare gently suckling milk from the nipple of the bottle. “Such a wonderful girl you are precious.” Mira thought as she began to hum a melody while Clare continued to drink from the bottle until she drifted to sleep causing the Nipple to slip out of Clare’s mouth.

Silently Mira held the bottle up over her head to find that Clare had almost drank the entire thing. “Someone was a hungry girl.” Mira thought as she gingerly removed her arm from behind Clare’s head and silently retrieved a pacifier that perfectly matched Clare’s onesie. “Sweet dream Baby Girl.” Mira quietly whispered as she quietly laid beside Clare, and slipped the nipple of the pacier into Clare’s mouth.

Now satisfied that she had done everything should could Mira closed her eyes while wrapping a protective arm over Clare as she began to hum a rich melody that warmly harmonized with the faint sound Clare’s pacifier made as it rhythmically dance in Clare’s mouth.

Part: 6

The deep hooting of an owl was the first thing that Clare could here as she slowly opened her eyes, and spotting Mira laying beside her dressed in one of her nightgowns with her head gently resting on the same pillow as Clare. For the briefest of moments Clare wondered what being asleep was like for Mira until her bladder painfully reminded her of why she was awake in the first place. “I gotta pee” Clare thought as she began to slowly dig herself out of the cocoon of blankets she had been wrapped causing a rush of cold to greet her now exposed legs and arms. “So cold this morning.” Clare thought with a sigh when suddenly she could hear Mira beginning to stir beside her.

“What’s wrong Baby Girl?” Mira asked in the faintest of whispers without opening her eyes.

“Nothing’s wrong.” Clare said with a shrug as she covered herself with blankets once more before turning slightly towards Mira.

“Do you need to go potty?” Mira asked eyes now opening slightly causing a small flash of light to appear in her eyes before going dim once more.

“I do, but its so cool, and I don’t really want to get up.” Clare said with a faint laugh at her modest predicament.

“Then why don’t you just go here?” Mira said slightly louder as she gently tapped the mound of blankets that concealed her pull up. “Then you can go back to sleep.” Mira said before gently closing her eyes once more.

As Clare shifted her weight to try to resume getting out of bed she could hear the distinct crinkling sound of her plastic panties calling out as if to remind her that they were still there. “I’m not really considering this? Am I?” Clare wondered to herself as Mira gently placed her arm on top of the mound of blankets shielding Clare form the frigid morning air.

“There’s no need to worry Baby Girl.” Mira whispered as she gently brought her face closer to Clare’s. “No one will know if you use it, and I'm certainly not going out of my way to announce it.” Clare said in a tone that Clare found reassuring. “Now, try to relax and go back to sleep.” Mira said while gently adjusting Clare’s blankets.

Another ping of pain screamed out at Clare as she suddenly felt herself reaching her limits. “At this point I’m not even sure I’d make it.” Clare whispered as she closed her eyes sensing the inevitable outcome of trying to dash to the bathroom. “Just try to relax.” Clare thought to herself as she gently closed her eyes while trying to imagine that she were sitting on the toilet under the harsh bright lights that would surely have blinded her when she turned them on. “Just try to relax” Clare muttered to herself as she inhaled deeply when suddenly she could feel a warm torrent being released causing Clare to let out a long relaxed sigh. “Its so warm.” Clare thought as a small content smile made her lips twitch slightly as the pressure in her bladder was soothingly released, and she cautiously slipped a hand toward her covered wrapped and covered pull up and gave it a gentle squeeze causing a sensation that Clare did not find at all unpleasant. “So soft and warm.” Clare whispered as she could feel herself slowly being pulled downward into the land of dreams just as Mira slowly peeked at Clare with one eye slightly open until Clare fell back asleep.

The next time Clare opened her eyes she noticed the sun was already up, and the smell of cooking bacon was in the air as Clare gently turned her head to find that Mira was indeed already up. “Guess I’ll get up too.” Clare thought as her stomach let out a loud growl when suddenly she felt something small and soft settled in between her neck and her pillow that Clare soon realized was a pacifier that she didn’t remember seeing. “When did I get this?” Clare thought to herself as she slowly picked it up to find that it was attacked to the fabric of her onesie. “How did I not notice this last night?” Clare wondered as she gingerly pulled herself from bed happy that her room didn’t feel quite as cold as it had the last time she tried to get up.

“Baby girl you awake?” Mira called from the door with a delicate knock that Clare was certain she wouldn’t have heard if she was asleep.

“I am.” Clare said instinctively as she pulled herself to her feet before catching a glimpse of herself in the mirror.

“That’s wonderful!” Clare said with more enthusiasm then Clare was ready first thing in the morning. “I’ve already made a yummy breakfast for you.” Mira quickly added as she pushed Clare’s bedroom open, and gently taking Clare by the hand.

“Can’t wait.” Clare replied while sniffing the air which caused her stomach to moan longingly in anticipation while Mira gently helped Clare take her seat at the table where a large plate of fresh pancakes, eggs, bacon, and a sippy cup of milk sat waiting for her.

“No need to be shy.” Mira said with nodding approval as Clare slowly took the pink plastic fork that sat beside a matching pink plastic plate. “Eat your fill.” Mira sang just as Clare took her first bite of her pancakes.

“This is so good!” Clare declared enthusiastically while savoring the fluffy and sweet mixture in her mouth with delight. “Thank you Mira.” Clare quickly added before taking another bite earning her a gentle pat on the head as Mira slowly returned to the sink to finish cleaning up the dishes she had used while cooking. “Best vacation ever.” Clare thought to herself while cutting into her eggs when she felt her bladder calling to her again. “I could probably hold it.” Clare thought for a moment as she determined that she didn’t have to go nearly as badly as she normally would in the morning due to the fact she had went the night prior. “Always when I’m trying to relax.” Clare mumbled when suddenly she remembered what she was wearing and smiled slightly while biting greedily into a piece of bacon she had claimed with her fingers. “In for a penny in for a soaking.” Clare thought as she closed her eyes briefly while gently spreading her legs apart until the cool padding of her pull up was quickly began to expand causing a warm sensation that made Clare sigh contently as she took a drink of ice cold milk from her sippy cup.

Across the room in the kitchen Mira finished drying and putting away the dishes before silently grabbing a bag that she had not yet shown Clare while shouting. “Call me if you need anything precious. Mommy is just going to tidy up in here.”

“I will.” Clare said around another bite of pancake.

Once out of sight Mira quietly stepped into Clare’s room, closed the door behind her, and then proceeded to pull all of the blankets, sheets, and pillows from the bed. “I can’t believe I forgot this.” Mira said with a smile as she tore open the packaging in her hands, and pulled a crisp white sheet lined with a thick layer of plastic from within. “Better safer than sorry.” Mira thought as she expertly spread the sheet on to the mattress, followed by the sheets, blankets, and half a dozen large fluffy pillows just as the door behind Mira began to open slightly.

“Hey Mira? Do you think you could help me change out of this?” Clare asked while pointing gingerly to her swollen pull up. “Its starting to get full.” Clare mumbled as her cheeks began to brighten from the embarrassment.

“Of course Baby Girl.” Mira said while quickly turning around while gently pulling Clare through the air, and onto the bed causing a loud crinkle to call out to Clare.

“What’s this?” Clare asked quizzically while gently patting the mattress beneath her causing several loud crinkles to cry out loudly with each and every pat.

“Oh, I put a plastic sheet on you mattress this morning.” Mira said with a smile as she laid a fresh towel down, and gently moved Clare on to it while Clare laid down. “It will help add an extra layer of protection just in case you ever find yourself in a leaky predicament. “Mira added while removing Clare’s old pull up.

“Probably not a bad idea.” Clare mumbled as she felt the moist padding of her pull up being pulled away, and set in a wastebasket with a low plop.

“Mommy is glad you think so honey.” Mira said with a smile as she helped Clare to her feet. “Now, go potty for Mommy before we get you all nice and clean for another wonderful day!” Mira said with a cheer as she lead the way to the bathroom, and unlocked the door.

“Yeah, its probably about time I stop lazing about, and get started on my to do list.” Clare mumbled as she sat herself on the toilet while contemplating everything that she wanted to accomplish around the house before going back to work. “Its going to be such a pain, but if I don’t do this stuff now then I probably never will.” Clare said aloud while Mira gently sat on the side of the bathtub listening attentively.

“Sounds like you’d rather not do it.” Mira said with a smile which caused Clare to nod in agreement just as a small plopping sound could be heard as Clare finished her morning bowel movement. “What if you didn’t have to do any of it?” Mira asked thoughtfully as she began collecting several sheets of toilet paper into her hand.

“I mean that’d be great.” Clare said with a wishful sigh.

Mira quickly interjected as she suddenly visualized a pathway that would would give her what she wanted while also helping Clare accomplish her own goals. “What if I did everything you needed to get done, but in exchange.” Mira said with a pause as she looked directly into Clare’s curious eyes. “In exchange I want you to let me take care of all of your needs.” Mira said with a smile as Clare laughed loudly.

“Mira what do you mean?” Clare said while slowly getting up, and Mira flushed the toilet behind her. “You have been helping me with everything around here.” Clare gestured around the spotless bathroom. “Cleaning, cooking, and other things.” Clare finished with a slight blush while she gently pulled at the fabric of her onesie.

“So, what do you have to lose?” Mira asked cautiously as she reached towards the bottom of Clare’s pink onesie, and helped pull it over her head. “Make a list, and I assure you it will be completed more quickly than you could ever hope to complete it.” Mira added with a confident smile.

Naked once more Clare stood silently contemplating Mira’s offer realizing that she would have even more time to relax and unwind. That sounds wonderful for me, but what do you get out of the deal?” Clare asked cautiously looking for a possible angle or loophole she wasn’t seeing.

“What do I get?” Mira asked gingerly while stepping beside Clare and pulling her into a soft hug. “I get to spend more time with my Baby Girl.” Mira whispered while gently pulling Clare closer to her.

“If that's the case then I’ll write up the list right after I get dressed.” Clare whispered as she gave Mira a gentle hug back. “Just don’t try to change your mind when you see how long it is.” Clare added with a smile as she slowly broke away from Mira to step into the shower.

“Oh I think I’ll manage.” Mira said with a knowing smile as she slowly stepped outside the bathroom while slowly closing the door shut behind her. “Be sure to come get Mommy when you are all done.” Mira called though the door as she began planning a list of her own. “We’re going to have so much fun.” Mira thought as she collected Clare’s breakfast plate from the table.

Part: 7

Clare glanced up at the index card Mira had placed on the fridge two days ago ensuring that it sat directly beside the large checklist Clare had posted for Mira to complete as part of their deal, and then she glanced at her own list to find that Mira had already completed every task except one.

“Honestly, I knew she could do it, but I thought it would have taken her longer.” Clare whispered in amazement as she glanced out the window to find Mira wearing a pair of Clare’s running shorts and matching tank top mowing the lawn. “Won’t be long now I guess.” Clare said with a sigh as she took the note card Mira had made off of the fridge, and began studying it more closely. “Mommy Mira’s House Rules.” Clare whispered to herself as she proceeded to read each rule one at a time. “Rule 1: Mira is to only be called Mommy or Mama, Rule 2: Clare is to let Mira attend to each and every need she may have unless explicit permission has been given by Mira to do otherwise, Rule 3: Clare must follow every instruction given to her by Mira without question unless following the instruction would put Clare in physical or emotional harm.” Clare’s voice trailed off as she heard the sounds of the lawnmower being turned off, and quickly looked to see Mira slowly pulling the old red lawnmower into her storage shed. “Well, I guess that’s that.” Clare thought to herself while scooping her sippy cup filled with fresh lemonade into her hands, and reclaimed her spot on the living room sofa as Mira walked straight to the fridge to place a check next to the final item on Clare’s lists. “Mira, you’re amazing.” Clare said lazily as she turned the television off, and watched Mira walk past her while giving Clare a gentle pat on the head.

“I’ll be right back Baby Girl.” Mira shouted as she stepped into Clare’s room for several moments leaving Clare alone with her thoughts.

“A deal is a deal.” Clare thought to herself while luxuriously sipping from her Sippy cup with her head resting on the soft pillow she had placed behind her.

“I have completed your to do list.” Mira finally said while joining Clare back in the living room now wearing another pair of Clare’s jeans and her favorite pink shirt that proudly proclaimed she was Clare’s Mommy. “And now that I’ve finished your list.” Mira said warmly while gently pulling Clare into her arms. “I’d like to finish a list of my own.” Mira said longingly while gently slipping a finger under Clare’s black onesie, and into the lining of the pull up Clare was wearing. “Someone’s been a busy girl.” Mira said with a knowing smile as she gave Clare’s wet pull up a gentle pat. “Let’s go get you changed and dressed.” Mira said with a smile waiting for Clare to say anything.

“Alright.” Clare said flatly causing Mira to snicker quietly.

“Alright what?” Mira asked while squeezing Clare gently in her arms while resting her cheek against hers.

“Alright Mommy.” Clare said with a sigh that earned her a gentle kiss on the cheek as Mira raised Clare’s hands by using her own, and gently shook them around in the air causing Clare to laugh while quietly whispering. “What have I got myself into.”

“Let’s find out.” Mira whispered into Clare’s ear as she stood, and proceeded to cradle Clare in her arms while she guided the both of them into Clare’s bedroom. “First let’s get you changed out of this.” Mira said while unbuttoning Clare’s onesie, and pulling it off of her with ease. “Next let’s change you out of this, and into a nice clean pull up.” Mira said while quickly pulling Clare’s soggy pull up off her, and replacing it with a new one while applying a liberal amount of baby lotion and powder to Clare’s butt and special area.

“Are we going somewhere Mira. I mean Mommy?” Clare asked curiously while Mira began reaching into the closet for another pair of jeans and Clare’s pink shirt that read “Mommy’s Girl”.

“Yes Baby Girl we have a lot of important things to do, so that we can ensure our special time together is perfect.” Mira said with a smile as she helped Clare slide her legs into her jeans, and slipped them over her clean pull up with ease.

“Oh alright.” Clare said hesitantly as she realized the only money Mira would have to spend would be her own. “Just make sure you don’t go to crazy Mommy. Make sure there’s enough money left to pay the bills” Clare said urging a sense of caution as she slipped her head and arms through the openings in her shirt.

“Baby girl.” Mira said while gently wagging a finger in front of her face. “Mommy is going to need you to trust that she has your best interest at heart, and more importantly understand that she has already assessed all aspects associated with each of your active financial accounts, credit cards, or other financial obligations.” Mira finished with a warm smile that helped put Clare’s mind at ease. “So just try to relax, and remember Mommy knows best.” Mira finished saying as Clare was set down on the sofa, and a modest white pair of sneakers with pink laces were slipped on to each of Clare’s feet. “Ready to go?” Mira asked as she looked down at Clare while slipping Clare’s purse over her shoulder.

A moment passed while Clare battled against her instinct to demand that she be allowed to hold on to her purse or even see her phone, but as she was preparing to speak she began to recall Mira telling her that she was periodically checking for any important phone calls or messages with a guarantee that if there was anything that would require Clare’s immediate attention she would allow Clare access to her phone or computer. “No I think I’m ready.” Clare said with a smile as she glanced out the window to see that the sunny was still shining brightly.

“Then let’s not waste any time.” Mira said with vigor as she led Clare out of the house, and to Clare’s surprise passed her truck.

“Uh, Mommy I thought we were going out?” Clare said while glancing back towards her truck to find that Mira seemed to be leading her down the sidewalk, and out of her neighborhood.

“We are baby girl, but Mommy doesn’t know how to drive.” Mira said while glancing in Clare’s direction with an expression that told Clare she was not joking.

“Are you serious? You can’t Drive?” Clare laughed loudly while gently taking Mira’s outstretched hand. “You can mow the lawn, fix fences, clean pipes, assemble furniture, and you are telling me you can’t drive.” Clare finished with a large smile that surprisingly caused Mira to laugh as well.

“I guess when you put it that way. It does sound a little silly.” Mira said with a smile as she began to pull Clare towards a bus stop bench.

“Only a little.” Clare finished as she sat on the bench beside Mira causing her pull up to crinkle slightly. “So, where are we going anyways?” Clare asked curiously now having nothing else to do, but make conversation with Mira while they sat alone waiting for the next bus to arrive.

“Where we are going is a surprise, but I can tell you that we are going shopping for some very important items.” Mira finished saying as the rumble of a city bus came to a gentle stop in front of them. “My first bus ride!” Mira said enthusiastically pulling Clare towards the large open door of the bus.

“Can’t wait to see what you’ve got in mind.” Clare thought with a sigh while Mira happily paid their bus fare, and directed her towards an open seat across from an elderly couple who smiled warmly while reading Clare and Mira’s matching mother and daughter shirts.

“They never really stop being your baby do they?” The elderly woman said softly to Mira as she took her spot closest to the center of the aisle giving Clare the window seat.

“She’ll always be my Baby Girl.” Mira said happily while hugging Clare tightly from across the seat making her blush wildly. “Even if sometimes she wishes I’d stop treating her like it.” Mira said as the elderly couple and another nearby passenger laughed warmly.

“I’m sorry mam. The misses wasn’t trying to embarrass you. Truthfully, I wish our daughter would visit a bit more often.” The elderly gentleman beside his wife spoke as Clare managed to negotiate her release from Mira’s arms.

“Its fine.” Clare said as while fighting of a small smile as Mira took used Clare’s smartphone camera to take a picture of the two of them before finally settling into her seat quietly as the bus traveled from one stop to the next for about an hour.

“Come on Baby Girl. This is our stop.” Mira said happily as she grabbed Clare’s hand, and began quickly making her way to the front of the bus.

“Where is here?” Clare asked quizzically as they stepped off of the bus to find that they were in a rundown looking shopping center. “Are you sure this is the place Mira?” Clare asked earning her a playful slap on her backside by Mira.

“Mommy or Mama.” Mira declared with a corrective tone as she pulled Clare towards what looked like a pharmacy. “Mommy will let it slide this time, but only because she is sorry she got a little too excited on the bus."

“Yeah, maybe next time you should have the window seat.” Clare offered as Mira gently pulled the pharmacy door open allowing Clare to enter before her.

Once inside Clare could immediately tell that this pharmacy must have been built sometime within the passed three decades by the looks of the old gray security camera’s that were hung sparingly around an otherwise unremarkable pharmacy.

“This way Baby Girl!” Mira shouted after glancing at a large set of signs that advertised the types of items each aisle contained.

“Alright lead the way Mommy.” Clare said quizzically as she was pulled through the interior of one of the aisle’s, and stopped in front of a large shelf that was stacked from bottom to top with a variety of different products used to help adults that suffer from various levels of incontinence. “Now, listen carefully Baby Girl.” Mira said with a gentle smile while Clare looked at the items being sold. “Mommy wants you to pick out whichever one of these you like best.” Mira said while gesturing to a particular shelf that held three different styles of overnight diapers in different sizes.

Clare looked at each of the packages, and with a rehearsed ease she pointed to a set of plain white diapers that was being advertised as the most comfortable adult diaper on the market. “I want the comfy ones Mommy.”

“Mommy had a feeling that you would. Go ahead and grab the size that will fit best.” Mira said cheerfully while watching Clare carefully examine the sizing information on the side of the diapers she had pointed to, and laughing happily as Clare bent down to grab a package of diapers in her size.

“Is this all we’re getting Mommy?” Clare asked with reddening cheeks as she held her first pack of diapers in her arms.

“From here.” Mira said brightly as she took the diapers from Clare’s arms, and proceeded to set them on the counter for a bored teenage girl chewing bubble gum to scan and bag while Mira placed the exact amount of money needed on the counter. “Come along Baby Girl.” Mira whispered to Clare who was fidgeting behind Mira nervously waiting for the interaction to be over.

“Yes Mommy.” Clare said eagerly running to the door of the pharmacy in an attempt to distance herself from the cold glare of the cashier. “I don’t think she enjoys working there.” Clare whispered to Mira once the door had closed behind them.

“I think your right.” Mira said with a chuckle as she shifted brown paper bag she now carried into her left hand, and used her right hand to grab Mira’s outstretched hand. “Let’s try not to get separated.” Mira said with a smile as she began walking into a small grocery store beside the pharmacy, and directed Clare to grab one of the shopping baskets near the entrance. “Do you think you can be Mommy’s special helper today?” Mira asked while reaching into a nearby fridge to retrieve a gallon of whole milk, and set it into the basket.

“Yes Mommy.” Clare said with a hint of resignation in her voice as she followed Mira from one aisle to the next picking up various odds and ends until they arrived in aisle that was filled with bottles, pacifiers, formula, jars of baby food, and many other items Clare assumed were needed by parents caring for babies of their own. “So what do we need from here?” Clare asked hesitantly as Mira hastily filled the basket with a box containing a set of three baby bottles, followed by a two pack of pink pacifiers, a bright pink bib with a hungry baby rabbit, and finally a variety pack containing several types of baby food. “I had a feeling this was coming.” Clare whispered to herself while Clare began to make her way out of the aisle, and over to the checkout counter.

“Find everything alright ladies?” A friendly cashier asked while giving Clare a warm unassuming smile.

“Yes, we did. Thank you.” Mira said far more casually than Clare was expecting which caused her to let out a sigh of relief. “Can you help me carry these Baby Girl?” Mira asked as she proceeded to hand Clare both of the shopping bags while she carried the gallon of milk in her own hand.

“Yes Mommy.” Clare said with a smile as she tried to ignore the cashier who seemed to be eyeing her closely. "Why's he staring at me?" Clare thought as she followed closely behind Mira.

“Excuse me miss, but you might want to adjust your shirt. Your underwear is showing.” The shopkeeper shouted to Clare who had already run through the door. “Oh well. I’m sure she’ll figure it out.” The shopkeeper chuckled as he watched Clare and Mira make their way back towards the bus stop.

Part: 8

The bus ride from the small shopping center was rather uneventful for Clare as she rode alongside Mira who seemed to take an interest in just about everything the bus passed causing her to smile faintly as she allowed herself to relax enough to lightly wet her pull up just before the bus began to slowly come to a smooth stop. “This is our stop Mommy.” Clare said loudly enough to break Mira’s stare from the window as she slowly collected her shopping bags into her arms.

“That didn’t seem to take any time at all.” Mira replied thoughtfully following closely behind Clare as they made their way off of the bus, down the sidewalk, and finally back to Clare’s home. “Are you starting to feel hungry Baby Girl?” Mira asked while taking quick glance at Clare’s phone before placing it back into Clare’s purse wrapped snugly around her shoulder.

“Yeah, something to eat sounds good.” Clare said uneasily as her eyes began sinking down to the large box containing a colorful variety of baby food jars. “What did you have in mind?” Clare asked hoping for the best, but expecting the worst.

“How does spaghetti sound?” Mira asked Clare as she unlocked the front door, and gently guided herself and Clare into the kitchen to unload their bags on to the counter as the table was still being used to proudly display their puzzle. “Should probably put this away.” Mira said casually while she began to put away the groceries while Clare seemed to stop momentarily to admire the puzzle as if it were a work of art hanging in an art room’s gallery. “But I guess we don’t have to do it tonight.” Mira calmly said while placing a gentle hand on Clare’s shoulder. “Why don’t you go find something cute to watch on the television while I finish putting these away and get dinner ready.”

“Alright Mommy.” Clare said with a mellow tone as she broke her gaze from the beautifully cracked image in front of her. “Probably put it away tomorrow.” Clare thought to herself as she allowed her mind to move past the puzzle on the table, and on to the bright red Netflix logo that appeared on her television screen. “Find something cute.” Clare thought for a moment quickly gliding passed several shows and movies she had been previously considering since they looked like they would be neither cute nor something Mira probably wanted her watching right now. “How long has it been since I’ve seen this?” Clare muttered to herself as she selected Cinderella, and smiled warmly as the movie began to play transporting her from her living room sofa to the stuffy manor Cinderella had shared with her stepsisters and stepmother.

Meanwhile in the kitchen Mira had already finished putting away the groceries, and was now placing a pot of water on the stove top. “That’ll need a few minutes before its ready.” Mira thought to herself as she reached for the large pack of diapers she and Clare had picked out, and quietly strode passed Clare who was contently staring at the television. “Such a good girl.” Mira thought while she turned the light of the bedroom on, and quickly pulled the dresser drawer containing all of Clare’s panties open. “We won’t be needing these.” Clare thought as she quickly emptied the contents of the drawer into Clare’s laundry basket beside the dresser, and then began filling the drawer with the diapers and pull ups. “Much better.” Clare said with a satisfied smile as she began to crumple up the plastic diaper and pull up bags into her hands before returning to the kitchen without so much as receiving a glance from Clare as she made her way through the living room. “Now, let’s get this started.” Mira thought to herself as she began adding a handful of pasta into the now boiling water while quickly glancing at the box of baby food on the counter. “I wonder which one will go best with this?” Mira thought for a moment before going back to her meal time preparations for the next hour until she was satisfied with what she had made. “She’s going to love this.” Mira thought with a smile as she began preparing a plate, and setting it on the table before discretely slipping into the living room with Clare.

“He found her.” Clare smiled as she watched the prince slide the glass slipper on to Cinderella’s foot with a warm smile when suddenly she was startled to find that Mira had been sitting right beside her which caused her to break her attention away from the screen in front of her. “Mommy your gonna give me a heart attack.” Clare said after coming to her senses just as the movie’s credits began to scrolling along the surface of the screen.

“I didn’t mean to startle you Baby Girl.” Mira said apologetically as she gave Clare’s hand a playful squeeze before turning the television off and pulling Clare to her feet. “Now, come along its time for dinner.” Mira said gently as she allowed Clare to make her way ahead of her to the table.

“It smells amazing!” Clare said with a hypnotic smile as the rich aroma of the spaghetti’s sauce playfully teased her taste buds, and pulled her to her seat at the table where she found a hot plate of spaghetti without any silverware. “Mommy could you bring me a fork?” Clare asked as she closed her eyes, and visualized herself taking her first bite when suddenly she could sense the aroma growing further away. “Uh, Mommy?” Clare said quizzically as her plate was moved from its place in front of her, and was replaced by two jars of baby food.

“Mommy’s very happy you are excited for your desert, but if you want to have even a single bite of it you’re going to need to eat both of these.” Clare said with a smile as she quickly removed the lid from each of the jars with a loud pop, and gingerly dipped a small spoon into a bright orange jar of carrots.

“Mommy please I don’t” Clare tried to say, but before she was able to finish Mira quickly inserted the spoon into her mouth causing Clare to choke slightly as the cool formless mush began to cover her tongue and slide down the back of her throat.

“Baby Girl.” Mira said bringing another spoonful of carrots closer to Clare’s now closed mouth. “If you don’t eat these I really won’t allow you to have any of that pasta, and that would be a shame because the recipe I used to make the sauce comes from a restaurant that specializes in Italian cuisine.” Mira said with a smile as she gently pulled the hot plate slightly closer giving Clare a small glimpse of what awaited her.

“Dammit.” Clare thought to herself as she imagined Mira tactfully moving her queen on a chessboard, and declaring checkmate. “No rest for the hungry.” Clare thought to herself as she forced her mouth open, and willingly accepted another bite of the orange goop.

“Such a hungry baby.” Mira playfully said as Clare began quickly swallowing every bite of the orange goop as fast as she could until it was gone. “Here comes the train.” Mira whispered routinely setting the empty jar down and taking the other jar filled with a dark green gelatinous goo, dipping the spoon, and inserting it into Clare’s mouth before it had completely opened causing most of the goop to spill from Clare’s mouth and on to the pink fabric of her shirt. “Oh dear me.” Mira said with a start as she quickly got to her feet to retrieve a washcloth from the sink, and expertly cleaned Clare’s shirt and face. “Sorry Baby Girl. That was Mommy’s fault.”

“Its alright.” Clare said with her eyes transfixed on the still hot plate of spaghetti sitting just outside of her reach.

“Let’s put this on.” Mira said cheerily as she began placing the bright floral pink bib with a hungry baby rabbit that was also wearing a bib while holding an empty spoon in its paw. “There now we won’t have to worry about any more spills. Will we Baby Girl?” Mira said with a knowing smile as her eyes traced Clare’s gaze to the spaghetti beside her. “Just a few more bites, and this will all be yours.”

Without saying a word Clare begrudgingly opened her mouth as she accepted seven more scoops of the green goop until Clare stood to take the spoon and both of the empty jars away before returning to the table with a fork.

“Finally!” Clare said enthusiastically as Mira slid the plate between them, and deliberately began twisting the fork between her fingers until she had a generous bite of pasta bathed in a vibrant red sauce. “Hurry.” Clare silently pleaded while Mira began to gently blow on the pasta several times before slowly placing it in her mouth. “So good!” Clare mumbled as her taste buds praised the rich tapestry of flavors being spread thought her mouth.

“Don’t forget to chew.” Mira said with her bright smile to Clare as she placed another bite into Clare’s waiting mouth. “And now you can see why Mommy said this was dessert.” Mira declared proudly as a thin ring of red sauce appeared on Clare’s face, and she quietly updated her internal recipe database ensuring the recipe for spaghetti was moved up several places ranks to ensure she would make it more often. “Here comes the rocket.” Mira said enthusiastically as she began slightly turning the fork left and right in her hands allowing to Clare to take bite after bite until finally Mira looked down at the place to find that it was completely empty. “All gone.” Mira sang as she set the fork down on the plate, and got up to put it away.

Now feeling quite full Clare slowly got up from the table, and started to head to the living room when when suddenly she could feel herself being scooped into Mira’s arms, and carried to where she had been sitting on the sofa. However, instead of simply setting Clare on the sofa Mira sat down while gently positioning Clare into a sitting position across her lap while gently wrapping her arms tightly around Clare.

“Open wide Baby Girl.” Mira whispered into Clare’s ear as she gently raised one of the new bottles they had purchased towards her lips. “I bet Baby Girl is thirsty after all that pasta.” Mira continued to whisper with a content smile as Clare accepted the nipple of the bottle into her mouth, and began to suckle on the nipple. “That’s a good girl.” Mira whispered while gently rocking Clare back and forth in her arms as she gently closed her eyes until suddenly Clare turned her head causing the nipple to pop out of her mouth.

“Uh, Mommy I need to go potty.” Clare said quickly as she looked at Mira expectantly.

“That’s wonderful Baby Girl.” Mira said with a smile as she pulled Clare closer to her, and attempted to reinsert the nipple into Clare’s mouth.

“No, I mean I have to poop.” Clare said quickly hoping this clarification would expedite her release from Mira’s arms, but when it didn’t Clare began to wriggle around trying to slip from her place on Mira’s lap.

“Baby girl Mommy is telling you to stop.” Mira said sternly while firmly placing her hand on Clare’s shoulder in an attempt to make her stop.

“But Mira!” Clare shouted as she began squeezing tightly.

“No buts Baby Girl. Except yours if you don’t calm down.” Mira continued as she turned Clare until she was laying on her belly across Mira’s lap. “And I thought I made myself Clear.” Mira continued while delivery three light swats to the back of Clare’s pull up. “You are to only call me Mommy or Mama, and nothing else.” Mira said as Clare quickly calmed herself and became quiet. “Now, are you going to finish your bottle like a good baby or does Mommy need to spank your for real?”

“I’ll finish my bottle.” Clare answered compliantly as she squeezed her eyes shut, and could feel herself being returned to a sitting position while the nipple of the bottle was once again presented to her lips.

“That’s much better.” Mira whispered as she began gently began rocking back and forth while she gently rubbed and pressed a hand against Mira’s stomach causing a small toot to escape from Clare. “Don’t worry Baby Girl. Mommy will get you cleaned up once you are finished.”

“Nooo!.” Clare screamed in her mind as she felt as if a massive hole being punctured through her ironclad defenses, and she knew there was nothing she good do besides accept her fate causing a wet fart to escape followed by an eruption of warm mush that immediately began assaulting her nose. “Nooo!” Clare now shouted as she turned her face bitterly as she turned to head, and tried to escape the putrid smell by burying her face against Mira’s chest as tears began flowing from her eyes.

“It’s going to be alright Baby Girl.” Mira gently whispered while soothingly rubbing Clare’s back. “It isn’t your fault. Mommy wasn’t giving you a choice.” Mira whispered quietly as Clare continued to vent her frustration against the soft cotton of Mira’s shirt. “Clare drink this. It will make you feel better.” Mira instructed while rotating Clare on her lap until she was able to insert the bottle’s nipple back into her mouth, and to Mira’s surprise began drinking far more quickly than she had been. “Woah, slow down sweetie. It isn’t a race.” Mira said while gently pulling the nipple from Clare’s mouth, and then sliding it back in allowing Clare to resume drinking.

“Mira’s right. I only did this because she wouldn’t let me use the bathroom, and she didn’t let me use the bathroom because she wants to care for me like a baby.” Clare thought quietly while closing her eyes to get a moment to herself. “Its not my fault. I’m just keeping my end of our arrangement.” Clare began repeating this to herself until she drank the rest of the milk from the bottle.

“That’s much better.” Mira whispered while gently pulling the empty bottle away from Clare, and wrapping her in a hug. “You’re such a good Baby Girl.” Mira continued while gently kissing Clare’s forehead, and gently lifting Clare into her arms. “Let’s get you into something a little cleaner.” Mira said while carrying Clare over to a towel already spread out on the bed.

“Please hurry Mommy.” Clare whined feebly while Mira carefully pulled Clare’s pants off her legs, tossed them into a nearby laundry basket, and collected several baby wipes into her hand. “It smells so bad.” Clare said meekly as she pinched her nose shut in an attempt to protect herself from the putrid aroma that was slowly being pulled off of her by Mira’s steady and unflinching hands.

“I’m trying Baby Girl.” Mira said contently as she carefully began to wipe Clare’s bare bottom until it was clean enough for her to be set down, and dispose of Clare’s saturated pull up. “Now that the hard part is over we can get you into one of these.” Mira said while she reached into Clare’s dresser, and retrieved a fresh diaper. “Lift your bottom for Mommy.” Mira said warmly as she unfolded the snow white undergarment in her hands, and slowly began sliding it under Clare’s freshly cleaned bottom. “Stay just like that Baby Girl.” Mira said while quickly using one final baby wipe to clean any dirty spots that she missed, and then liberally applied a thick layer of baby oil and powder. “And butt down.” Mira said with a focused expression as she began to tape Clare’s diaper shut. “How does it feel baby girl?” Mira asked innocently while helping Clare sit upright on her bed causing her new diaper to crinkle loudly.

“So soft.” Clare whispered to herself as she felt the warm material snugly hug her waist and butt while she looked down to her crotch to find that the diaper was so thick it was forcing her legs apart despite her best efforts to close them.

“Well they are the softest diaper available.” Mira smartly said as her mind began referencing the details of the diapers package. “And because they’re so thick we won’t be needing these.” Mira said while holding up a lightly stained pair of plastic panties.

“I guess that’s something.” Clare vacantly said aloud while gently poking the surface of her diaper causing the material to gently rub against her skin luxuriously causing her face to flush slightly while Mira approached quietly holding a dark purple onesie with a bright yellow crescent moon covered in glitter.

“Mommy’s glad you like your new diaper Baby Girl.” Mira whispered quietly taking a seat beside Clare, and positioned the onesie over Clare’s head. “I hope this will still fit.” Mira laughed lightly as she began pulling the soft material of the onesie on to Clare, and began to meticulously snap each snap along the crotch of the onesie one at a time. “Such a tight fit.” Mira said enthusiastically while Clare’s eyes stared at each of the smooth circular snaps as they strained to hold her new pajamas tightly shut.

“Why do I love this?” Clare whispered to herself while gently placing her hand against the surface of the diaper over her crotch giving it a firm squeeze, but before she was able to do anything more she once again could feel Mira’s arms wrapping tightly around her, and pulling her on to her back.

“Isn’t it obvious?” Mira said with a big smile as she reached into her back pocket, and proceeded to take a picture of Clare and herself. “Because your my baby, and you always will be.”

Part: 9

“Mommy, can I take my blindfold off yet?” Clare muttered as she was led forward by Mira who had been relishing every moment of the time they had spent together since Clare had agreed to let Mira pamper and baby her in exchange for house work and maintenance.

“Not yet Baby Girl. Just a little longer” Mira exclaimed pulling Clare along far more quickly than she would have liked not only because she was blindfolded, but because she had been dressed in a dress she worried would be too short to completely conceal the thick padding that caused her to walk with a slight waddle. “Just a few more minutes.” Mira said in a way that told Clare she was still wearing the same bright smile she had put on when they left the house earlier that day.

“Fine.” Clare said with a small huff as she strained with her ears listening to ambient music playing in the air followed by low rubles that caused people to scream and holler in the distance. “Wait, are we at an amusement park?” Clare asked quizzically just as the blindfold was pulled from her eyes to reveal a large entryway decorated with brightly colored animals playing and eating what Clare thought must have been approximations of the food being sold within the park.

“Surprise Baby Girl!” Mira shouted enthusiastically as she ran to the ticket Kiosk, and quickly got in line to purchase their day passes.

“How many in your party?” A tired looking man with faded gray hair asked Mira without even glancing up from their computer terminal.

“I’ll need a ticket for me and my baby girl.” Mira said enthusiastically causing Clare to blush profusely as she joined Mira at the Kiosk’s brightly painted counter to find that the man placed a standard day pass on the counter, and beside it two bracelets each marked with the number 23. “Oh, wait I think…” Clare tried to say to the man operating the Kiosk just before Mira quickly pulled her away.

“Come along Baby Girl we don’t want to hold up the line do we?” Mira said wearing her bright Grin as she delicately placed the lanyard with her day pass around her neck, and then proceeded to place the Children’s guest pass on her and Clare’s wrists. “Look Baby Girl! We match!” Mira exclaimed enthusiastically as they each caught a glimpse of themselves in the Ticket Kiosk’s mirrored windows.

“Yeah, but…” Clare started to say as she glanced down at her wrist before looking over to Mira to find that she was already looking at a large map of the map that was prominently displayed in the center of the main entry area of the park. “Oh, look Baby Girl they have a special area in the park that will be perfect for you!” Mira shouted enthusiastically pointing to an area of the park that was color coated in a light purple color that signified attractions suitable for park attendees five and younger. “See they’ve got a carousel, a fun house, a train ride, and look live performances!” Mira exclaimed ignoring Clare’s less than thrilled expression, and grabbing her by the hand before she had an opportunity to say anything.

“Can’t wait.” Clare tried to say as she was pulled into a relatively short line for a brightly lit carousel with horses all positioned to look as if they were running while the ride was moving.

“We’re next Baby Girl!” Mira exclaimed quickly taking Clare’s hand, and pulling her forward through the line with such enthusiasm that Clare couldn’t help but return Mira’s smile.

“Oh isn’t this precious.” An elderly woman said with a warm smile behind a reflective pair of sunglasses as her gaze stared squarely at the matching dresses Clare and Mira were wearing. “But you girls look a little too old for this one.” The woman said opening the exit beside her. “Sorry, but you might need to go look for something else to ride.” The woman said apologetically as Mira’s expression went from happy to one that looked equal parts sad and disappointed while slowly walking to the ride’s exit as she had been instructed.

“I know mam.” Clare found herself starting to say without even realizing it. “But Mam, do you think you could make an exception for my mother and me?” Clare said with a blush as she reached for Mira’s hand.

“She’s your mother?” The woman says with a small amount of uncertainty and doubt lingering in her voice.

“Well, my Stepmother, but that doesn’t make me love her any less.” Clare says with a smile that causes Mira to to wrap Clare tightly in a hug. “Mommy, please I can’t breathe.” Clare whined in an attempt to pry herself out of Mira’s ironclad embrace.

“Alright, you two that’s enough.” The woman says fighting the urge to laugh out loud. “Go find a seat, and if anyone asks I didn’t let you on.” The woman said turning her back to Mira as she hurriedly pulled Clare on to a colorful horse with ease.

“Hold on tight Baby Girl.” Mira said holding a gently hand on Clare’s back as the ride begins to move in order to prevent Clare from accidentally losing balance, and falling off the horse. “Isn’t this so much fun!” Mira said warmly as Clare’s expression became blank for a moment.

“Isn’t this fun?” Clare heard in her mind when suddenly she saw her mother standing where Mira was standing. “Mom?” Clare whispered suddenly realizing several tears had escaped from her eyes before she gave her head a quick shake allowing her to see Mira once more.

“Baby Girl?” Mira asked hesitantly uncertain of what could be distressing Clare. “Are you feeling sick from the ride?” Mira asked as Clare quickly wiped her eyes with the back of her hand.

“I’m fine Mommy.” Clare said masking her emotions with a smile. “I think I got a little dizzy.” Clare said while jumping from the horse just as the carousel began to come to a slow graceful stop.

“Oh dear, let’s get you down.” Mira muttered while offering Clare her shoulder, and slowly walking to the ride’s exit, but before stepping off the ride’s platform she stopped turning to the ride operator. “Thank you for making an exception for us Miss!” Mira said enthusiastically before taking Clare to a nearby bench to rest for a moment.

“I’m alright now Mommy.” Clare says with a blush as Mira begins hovering over her looking for the cause of Clare’s previous distress.

“You do seem fine, but just in case.” Mira says reaching into a black diaper bag she had been wearing, and retrieving something Clare couldn’t quite see. “Here, drink this.” Mira said while slipping the tip of a juice box’s straw into Clare’s mouth.

Without saying a word Clare allows herself to begin sipping on the straw enjoying the ice cold juice under the heat of the afternoon sun, and for a moment Clare closed her eyes reminiscing on how her mother would feed her juice boxes just like this when she was little causing Clare to smile as she drank.

“That was yummy Mommy.” Clare says innocently as Mira pulls the straw from her mouth, and slowly begins to get to her feet raising her hands over her head before suddenly realizing doing so caused her dress to raise slightly revealing the bottom of her diaper causing her to quickly lower her arms back down to her sides.

“Looks like someone is still dry.” Mira thought to herself while depositing the now empty juice box into a nearby trash can before reclaiming her place at Clare’s side. “Now, what should we ride next?” Mira asked Clare while giving her a moment to recompose herself.

“How about the Ferris Wheel?” Clare said pointing to the large metallic frame gently rotating in the distance.

“Oh how fun.” Mira said brightly while following behind Clare passed several interesting looking attractions, and into a line queue that was significantly longer than the line for the carousel.

Now in line the pair made small talk among themselves using the downtime as an opportunity to continue to learn about one another, when suddenly Clare could feel a familiar tension beginning to build in her bladder, but rather than forcing herself to hold back the pressure or getting out of the line to find a bathroom like she had done so many times in the past she instead closed her eyes momentarily allowing a warm pleasurable sensation to spread throughout the front of her diaper.

“That’s so much better.” Clare thought to herself as she let out a gentle sigh while discreetly looking around her to see if anyone had noticed what she had just done.

“Looks like we’re next Baby Girl.” Mira whispered into Clare’s ear causing her to blush slightly as her hand gently squeezed the moist padding between Clare’s legs.

“Hey, folks step right up.” A mustached man shouts to Clare and Mira as they walked up the stairs of the rides boarding platform. “Watch your step.” The man shouted reaching to catch Clare to prevent her from stumbling. “Watch the gap now ladies.” The man shouted as he helped Mira and Clare into their seats before quickly locking them in place while saying. “Enjoy your ride.”

“We will!” Mira waved to the man enthusiastically causing their seat to rock erratically causing Clare to cling tightly to the railing that held them in their seat.“Mommy please sit still!” Clare shouted at Mira pointing to a small sign that hung on the set of seats in front of them. “Do Not Rock.” Clare spoke assertively as Mira began to settle into the seat beside Clare.

“Sorry Baby Girl. Mommy got a little to excited.” Mira said with a smile as their seat slowly climbed up higher and higher. “Oh look Baby Girl you can see the whole park from up here!” Mira shouted while gesturing wildly beside Clare as their seat reached its highest point.

“Yeah, it really is an amazing view.” Clare thought quietly to herself as their chair began to descend downward gracefully when suddenly everything around them began to shake violently, and the Ferris Wheel came to a complete stop.

“What happened?” Mira asked out loud when a voice over the rides intercom could be heard speaking overhead.

“We apologize for the inconvenience, but due to unforeseen technical issues we ask that all passengers please remain seated while our teams work to resolve these issues.” The voice of the mustached man spoke from his spot on the platform.

“Looks like we’re going to be here for awhile, but on the bright side at least we have the best view.” Mira quickly offered as Clare began to shift in her seat uncomfortably. “What’s the matter Baby Girl?” Mira asked innocently as a low rumble escaped Clare causing the back of her diaper to fill with a warm mash that threatened to leak out of the back.

“I think I’m going to need a change after this Mommy.” Clare said feeling her cheeks blush while she gently leaned her head against Mira’s shoulder.

“That’s alright Baby Girl.” Mira whispered quietly while gently wrapping Clare in her arms. “Mommy will get you cleaned up just as soon as we get down from here.” Mira said as Clare’s stomach began to rumble again. “Still have to go?” Mira asked Clare who shook her head in response.

“Kind of hungry.” Clare whispered looking at the bag Mira had sitting between them. “You wouldn’t to happen to have anything to snack on in there would you?” Clare asked with a hopeful expression on her face.

“Sorry Baby Girl, but all I thought to bring is this.” Mira said while opening the bag revealing a small container holding two bottles filled to the top with milk. “If you want you can drink one of these.” Mira said initially planning to hand Clare a bottle, but before she was able to Clare gently slid as close as she could to Mira without lifting her head from her shoulder.

“I want the milk Mommy.” Clare quietly whispered as she gently slid her mouth open and closed her eyes.

“Of course Baby Girl just close your eyes, and relax.” Mira whispered as she gently inserted the nipple of the bottle into Clare’s mouth, and began to sing as a gentle breeze caused their seats in the Ferris Wheel to rock gently while Clare allowed herself to slip into a deep sleep. "I wish this moment could last forever." Mira thought longingly while gently resting her head on top of Clare's head.

Part: 10

Clare’s eyes shot open as she was pulled from the pleasant dream she had been having as she quickly raised her head glancing in every direction that she could until her gaze met Mira’s eyes. “What happened?” Clare asked as she realized she was still on the Ferris Wheel with Mira while slowly sitting upright causing the cool mush in her diaper to spread between her legs.

“The ride operator said they are still working on the ride's issue, and that they should have the mechanical issue resolved shortly.” Mira said as she recalled every detail the man below had spoken. “So don’t worry, and try to go back to sleep.” Mira said as her tone became more affectionate as she gently started stroking Clare's long hair with her finger's gently.

“I would if I could.” Clare said attempting to reposition herself in the hopes that she would be able to place herself into a more comfortable position that didn’t make her butt feel so sore. “But this is starting to feel kind of uncomfortable.” Clare said while pointing to her heavily soiled diaper as it began to sag over and down the edge of Clare’s seat.

“Oh I know that must feel yucky Baby Girl, and as soon as we get off the ride Mommy will get you cleaned up.” Mira said wrapping her arms gently around Clare, and gently kissed her forehead just as the mechanical mechanisms of the Ferris Wheel sprung to life, and their seat slowly began to descend downward.

“Look, those people just got off!’ Clare murmured to Mira who was still holding Clare in a reassuring embrace. “Finally.” Clare thought as she let out a sigh of relief gently poking at the saturated material of her diaper as her seat was slowly lowered downward until she finally made it to the ride’s boarding platform where the ride operator meticulously worked the ride’s controls.

“Sorry for the inconvenience folks.” The man apologetically said with a scrunched face as soon as the smell from Clare’s diaper hit his nostrils causing him to wave his hand in front of his nose momentarily before quickly stopping once he saw Clare’s cheeks begin to brighten with shame. “Miss, I’m sorry it took so long to get you folks down.” The man said rubbing the back of his neck with his hand as his other hand reached to help Clare from her seat. “If you need something to change into I’m sure someone in one of the information kiosks should be able to help.” The man said while also helping Mira from her seat as well.

“Thank you very much for getting us down sir.” Mira said happily as the man’s hand gently probed Mira’s hand feeling its metallic ligaments carefully before Mira gently pulled it away.

“Of course no problem.” The man said his eyes reappraising Clare silently for a moment before turning back to the ride’s controls to begin lowering the next set of passengers down on to the ground.

“I think he realized I’m not human.” Mira said with a reluctant tone that Clare hadn’t ever heard Mira use. “I could feel him examining my hand when he squeezed it back there.” Mira said while holding her hand up in front of her examining it closely.

Clare listened to Mira for a moment while her eyes quickly scanned around for the nearest location that would allow Clare to change from the hardening stool that had cooled into a plastered cast around her butt. “Would it be a problem if he did?” Clare asked as she suddenly realized Mira had fallen several steps behind her.

“I didn’t see any signs prohibiting android from entering the park, but there are numerous locations in which I would be unable to accompany you.” Mira said aloud as Clare stepped in front of her with a reassuring smile.

“Then I’m sure we’re fine.” Clare said reassuringly while quickly adding. “And I’m not just saying that so you’ll change me out of this muddy disaster.” Clare said with a smile while gently lifting the front of her dress to reveal her diaper to Mira. “Maybe, the man was just taken by surprise once he realized you were an android because he thought you were pretty, and he had never considered he could fall in love with someone that wasn’t human.” Clare said teasingly while gently taking Mira’s hand into her own. “Wouldn't be the first time you’ve had that kind of effect on someone.” Clare casually said with a smile while looking directly into Mira's eyes while she led Mira forward following the direction of a large sign pointing to the location of the bathrooms.

“Oh wait Baby Girl.” Mira suddenly said pulling Clare to an abrupt stop that nearly caused her to lose her balance. “I bet they’d let us can get you cleaned up here.” Mira said while pointing to a colorfully painted entry way that lead into a large playground that surrounded a building with large glass windows covered in pictures of a variety cartoon animals all wearing diapers, drinking from bottles, and playing with toys.

“But isn’t this a daycare?” Clare said as her feet were pulled forward by Mira.

“Mommy’s Baby Girl is so smart.” Mira cheered slowing her pace, so that she could wrap Clare in an embrace that lifted Clare off the ground just enough for her feet to no longer be touching the ground. “Better hurry. Mommy doesn’t want you getting an icky rash.” Mira whispered as she quickly carried Clare all the way to the large glass doors before setting her back down.

“But I don’t think they’d let someone as old as me change here.” Clare said as Mira gently opened the large doors before them while gently pushing Clare forward.

“Of course they will precious.” Mira said with a smile as she gently tapped the back of Clare’s diaper with her hand. “Now, stop worrying and trust me.” Mira said widening her smile as a mature woman with a maternal aura met them in the center of a modestly sized waiting area.

“Welcome to the Little Explorer’s Club.” The woman said enthusiastically gesturing towards a set of large doors that led into an outdoor play area one side and a more traditional looking daycare setting on the other side. “Here to pick up your little one?” The woman asked fixing her gaze on the matching bracelets both Clare and Mira were wearing before directing her gaze towards Clare while sniffing the air slightly.

“Actually.” Clare began to say before Mira gently placed a finger over Clare’s mouth to silence her, and causing the woman before them to chuckle quietly.

“My little one had a messy accident due to us getting stuck on the Ferris Wheel for two hours, thirty-eight minutes, and twenty-two seconds due to unforeseen technical difficulties” Mira stated with a precision that made the woman’s smile widen. “Would it be possible for me to clean my girl up here?” Mira quickly stated while gently nudging Clare forward.

“Of course we can help get her cleaned up!” The woman exclaimed reaching gingerly for Clare’s hand before gently wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “I’m so sorry that happened to you, and there is no need to feel ashamed. These things happen to everyone sometimes. Please come this way, and let Miss Pam take care of you!” Pam exclaimed while gracefully pulling Clare away despite her futile attempts of protest.

“Just wait there a moment Mama. We’ll be back before you even have a chance to miss us.” Pam said with the same professional presentation that Mira so often used.

“Wait. Can’t I come with you?” Mira asked sounding weak as she gently slid the large bag she was carrying off of her shoulder, and held it in front of herself with both hands. “I’ve got her things here.” Mira said weakly as Pam released Clare from her arms for a moment, and returned to where she had left Mira standing.

“I’m sorry Miss, but I can’t let you gin there.” Pam said apologetically. “Only park certified caretakers or those being admitted can go in there.” Pam said while nodding in the direction of the large daycare’s doorway. “But if it makes you feel better.” Pam said while slowly relieving Mira of the bag in her hands. “I’ll be sure to use what you have here.” The woman said giving Mira one final smile before turning back towards Clare as she continued to lead the way through the large glass door’s of the daycare center.

“Um, Miss Pam I think I could probably get myself cleaned up.” Clare said barely louder than a mumble as she glanced around the colorful space trying to ignore several other caretakers as they shifted their gaze directly towards her.

“Nonsense.” Pam said with a reassuring tone as she led Clare into a smaller room containing a large changing table, a rocking chair, and a crib. “The only reason you even need me to clean you up is because you got stuck on the Ferris Wheel for nearly three hours, and since that was not your fault I insist you allow me to make things right.” Pam whispered slowly closing the door leaving the two women standing in silence.

“Aright.” Clare quietly said as she gently hopped up on to the large padded surface of the table, and instinctively laid down without needing to be told.

“That’s a good girl.” Pam said warmly as she gently slid Clare’s shoes off of her feet, and set them on the ground before proceeding to lift Clare’s dress revealing Clare’s mud stained diaper. “Oh my your Mommy wasn’t exaggerating when she said you made a mess.”

“I couldn’t hold it.” Clare said shyly as Pam expertly unzipped the bag she had gotten from Mira, and quickly took inventory of what she had to work with.

“Diapers, wipes, and powder.” Pam said warmly pulling the familiar objects from the bag, and setting them on the table. “Do you have accidents like this often sweetie?” Pam asked while opening the front of the diaper, and gently began cleaning Clare’s skin with several wipes.

Clare’s face began to burn brightly as she shifted her gaze from the woman currently wiping her butt to the warm glow of a decorative light above her. “Not usually, but I have a condition that makes it difficult for me to hold anything in.” Clare said hoping her little lie would both go unnoticed and be enough to end the conversation.

“I see, so that must be why you have an android assistant.” Pam said casually without lifting her eyes from the Clare.

“Uh, yeah that’s right.” Clare cautiously agreed hoping it would satisfy the woman’s curiosity.

“I see.” Pam said now speaking just as cautiously as Clare. “So, are your Mommy and Daddy not around to help?” Pam asked realizing too late that she may have spoken out of line as Clare’s eyes began to water. “I'm sorry sweet pea I didn’t mean to upset you.” Pam said quickly setting Clare on to a fresh diaper as she began to generously powder the front and back of Clare.

“No, its alright.” Clare said sniffling lightly while wiping her eyes with the back of her hands. “Both my parents and brother passed not too long ago, so I’m still getting used to not having them around.” Clare said weakly as she struggled to control her breathing, and slow the flow of tears streaking down the sides of her face.

“Never easy losing someone, and I can’t imagine how much pain you must have felt having to deal with the loss of so many at the same time.” Pam whispered allowing Clare a moment to herself as she slowly began to wrap the front of Clare’s diaper closed. “Take your time.” Pam said gently as she pulled Clare into a sitting position, and hugged her tightly. “Now we should probably dry those eyes, and get you back back to your Mama.” Pam said with a smile as she gently wiped away fresh tears with a baby wipe.

“Yeah, you’re probably right.” Clare said with a smile as hopped from the table with Pam’s help, and readjusted her dress so that it was covering her fresh diaper. “Thanks for the help.” Clare said bashfully as they stepped out into the main room of the daycare, and made their way back to the front lobby where Mira remained standing exactly where Pam had left her.

“Baby Girl!” Mira shouted as soon as she saw Clare. “It felt like you were gone for an eternity.” Mira said quickly taking the bag from Clare’s hands, and lifting Clare’s dress to check her diaper.

“Mommy!” Clare shouted as her cheeks began turning beet red. “Please stop. I’m fine.” Clare said quickly pulling the fabric of her dress from Mira’s hand.

“Not to worry Mama.” Pam said warmly as she placed her hands on Mira and Clare’s shoulders. “She’s all clean, and ready to go have more fun!” Pam said warmly as she began to slowly guide both Mira and Clare towards the main entry.

“Thank you for the help.” Mira said as her calm professional aura returned knowing Clare was alright. “Come along Baby Girl.” Mira said with a smile while holding the door open for Clare as they made their way back outside. “So what would you like to do now Baby Girl?” Mira asked Clare after they had been walking for several minutes.

“You pick Mommy.” Clare said with a smile before quickly adding. “The last thing I picked got us stuck.” Clare finished saying with a laugh while gently taking Mira’s outstretched hand, and following her allowing her presence to ease away the sadness she had been feeling.