A Big Little World -- (Author) binkieblondeboy

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Jan 10, 2021 at 11:16 PM
Content: Ring! Ring! Ring!

The Hello Kitty alarm clock continued to sound off early in the morning upon the strike of seven until a hand suddenly reached out and, after a while of groggily slapping about the clock, finally hit the head of the alarm, shutting it off.

Zoe, age twenty six, sits up in bed, her eyes dark with fatigue and hair amess as she scratched an itch at her side and stretched out the kink in her neck. The sun, just barely peeking its head up above the city skyline in the horizon, gave off an exuberant shine that filtered through the misty blue sky and appeared to seep into the room between the wide gap in the pink window curtains, filling the space with a soft cool glow as the muffled rumbling of street traffic creating an almost calming ambience that could have easily lulled one back to sleep.

Her first order of business was to answer the call of nature and relieve herself, which she did. The bedroom was small and relatively cramped with a large white dresser, side table, cabinet set and bed taking up much of the available space. The walls were painted a light shade of pink and adorned with a collection of personal sketch work framed and hung about the room. She nabbed her phone off the table off to the side of the bed, unplugged it from the charger and caught up with her morning diet of news and notifications.

Once she had finally finished relieving herself she unlatched the frame of her crib, dropped down the side and got out of bed, stretching out her legs as she rose slowly and scratching at her stomach which rumbled softly. Her morning routine continued with the mashing of bananas for breakfast served along with a hearty bowl of Fruit Loops and a warm bottle of mildly caffeinated milk. She sat down and ate in the living room upon her comfy couch next upholstered chair and small plastic coffee table watching the morning news broadcast which covered the ongoing candy sugar crisis, an outbreak of cold, the word of the day, a lesson in color recognition and a special segment showcasing cute puppies performing tricks.

After a longer than expected breakfast she undressed, tossing out her wet diaper, and took to the tub where she quickly showered herself off with her flower shaped spray handle. She dried her hair with her small blow dryer and did it up in twin pigtails tied off with large beaded hair ties. She rushed to apply a heavy layer of makeup with sparkly light blue eyeliner, thick red blush and bright pink lipstick. Running increasingly short on time she hurried to change herself into a clean diaper, one with an ensemble of colorful animals printed on it with polka dots along the sides. She threw on a short pink dress with a snap button crotch and bra underneath along with a pair of thigh high pink and white striped socks, little black Mary Janes shoes with a red bow atop the toes and a pair of plastic clip-on earrings in the shape of hearts. She rushed to pack her bag, supplying it with a completed makeup kit, her phone charger, paper money wallet, a few office supplies such as construction paper, crayons and colored markers, a bib and spit up rag, a bottle of starch powder, a bag of wet wipes and at least three fresh diapers of similar design to the animal print she had on.

Unable to afford even a basic used motorized car with a plastic body exterior, she was forced to run out of the apartment, locking the door behind her, and make a mad dash one block down to the bus stop, just in time to wave the bus down before it drove off without her. Zoe hated having to ride the bus all the time; to work, the store and to friend’s places. No matter which bus she got on there was always guaranteed to be candy stuck to the seats and floor, another person on board who clearly doesn’t change their diaper when they should and people at the back of the bus that would casually tease her and in one instance through gum in her hair. She’d like to have her own car, despite not having a whole lot of faith in her own driving skills, but with her annual salary and with all her expenses for food, inner city rent and school loans she felt she could barely afford a simple pedal car or a decent tricycle at that.

She worked at the Sweetie Sweets Co., a candy company where she worked along with the sales team as a telephone salesgirl, researching customer leads and analyzing market trends. She’d always wanted to get into drawing, possibly even for advertisement, but she, and honestly plenty of others around her, didn’t have all that much confidence in her art skills. And so off she went, riding along in a packed city bus downtown to her simple jumper seat activity desk for another long day of phoning a bunch of inattentive clients, putting put with cranky co-workers and staring at a computer screen till she went blind. A typical work day.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: May 4, 2021 at 2:07 AM
Content: Zoe’s office desk was the same bog standard jumper seat set up, no different than any other. She had her computer, calculator, phone with a smiley face dial, plastic abacus, modest collection of pony dolls, and a drawer full of the free candy samples she gets for working for the company, free because it’s either expired or it tastes yucky and didn’t sell well.

She hardly spoke to any of her neighboring office coworkers who, after nearly two years of shared workspace, were still as much of strangers to her as they were since she was first hired there. She would sit slouched over in her bouncy seat which at times ran uncomfortably tight in the crouch while staring cross eyed at her computer screen with her only relief from the strain occurring when her internet slowed to a crawl and she had to wait for it to respond. The office itself was decent enough with air conditioning, a clean changing room, a reasonable nap area and a staff kitchen where she spent much of her lunch hour chatting it up with her friend Meg.

“Hi Zoe, fun day so far?” Meg asked while munching on a stick of diet taffy.

“Oh it’s been so - so.” Zoe replied with a large frown and a pouty lip as she took a seat next to Meg with her food tray containing a bland dish of mashed strained peas, carrots, a peanut butter sandwich, a dried cookie and a lukewarm bottle of milk.
“Ooh, you seem tired. Have you considered taking a nap this break?” Meg asked in her usual snarky sort of forthright tone.

“Oh I’ve been getting plenty of sleep at home.” Zoe replied.

“Well maybe that there’s the problem.” Meg said with a snide sort of smirk.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Zoe asked defensively.

“Girl, when was the last night you actually went out to play and have fun?” Meg asked.

“I played over at your place last week.” Zoe responded.

“I mean when was the last time you ever played with a boy?” Meg continued.

“Wuh - I don’t know. Some time ago I guess. What does that have to do with anything?” Zoe replied, becoming increasingly agitated.

“Girl you need to find some more playmates of the boy variety. You can’t just keep hanging out with your gal pals all the time. You need to learn just how fun boys can be.” Meg said.

“I play with boys.” Zoe said quietly.

“Yeah but you’ve never gotten to any of the fun stuff.” Meg continued.

“What fun stuff?” Zoe asked timidly.

“Girl, are you serious!? You do know what wrestling is don’t you?” Meg asked softly.

“You mean - that thing that boys mostly do when they play fight?” Zoe asked.

“It’s not fighting when they do it with a girl.” Meg said with a dirty grin.

“Grose. We don’t need to talk birds and bees while I’m eating.” Zoe said, lowering her head and looking the other way.

“Oh come on, how old are you? Let me ask you this, what kind of diapers do you usually wear?” Meg asked.

“Meg.” Zoe said bitterly as her face blushed.

“Girl I’m serious. You don’t want to be walking around in those old diapers with the cutesy animal prints on them, that’s so grade school. Of course young college girls can get away with wearing them but you’re an adult now. You should try the plain white double thick over nights or the kind with those light flower designs printed on them. Boys like a girl who can handle a thick diaper. Plus it makes the butt look fabulous.” Meg continued to swoon over the subject.

“What diapers I wear is no one’s business.” Zoe said.

“Okay, forget the diapers. How about boys. Who was the last guy you hung out with?” Meg asked.

“I - I don’t know. Ben I guess.” Zoe muttered.

“Ben? Ooh, was it a playdate or a full on date-date?” Meg asked.

“No it wasn’t a date-date or anything like that - I was just hanging out at the mall by the playground and he came up to me and just hung around me is all.” Zoe replied.

“Girl you know he’s got to have a crush on you. Why don’t you reel him in while he’s still biting?” Meg continued.

“Well - Because - Uh - I’m not that interested in him. He smells funny. And he’s mean. And dumb.” Zoe replied with a mouth full of peanut butter.

“Oh come on, I’ve played with worse. Besides you’re not exactly perfect.” Meg said.

“So what? Besides Ben’s just a friend, nothing more.” Zoe said.

“If you say so. So, seeing as you don’t have any plans this weekend, would you like to hang out with me and the girls tonight? We’re going to that dance club at the other end of town. The one with the awesome ball pit and those cute animatronic animal performers.” Meg asked.

“Oh I love them. Uh - sure I can go.” Zoe said.

“Great - we can pick you up at nine-thirty.” Meg said.

“Nine-thirty? Well I usually go to bed at - “ Zoe began to say only to stop upon seeing Meg’s judgmental glare being directed at her.

“Uh - nine-thirty. Sure, I’ll wait outside.” Zoe continued.

“I swear girl, sometimes I think you’re still a kid.” Meg giggled.

“I am not a kid - meanie.” Zoe muttered to herself.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Jun 9, 2021 at 1:17 AM
Content: That night, Zoe stood out along the curb in a short mini dress, knee high fuzzy polyester socks and a pair of high heels with her hair twisted back into twin buns with bright purple lipstick, black eyeliner, a coat of pink blush and glitter along her cheeks. She waited out in the late dry heat with her rhinestone diaper bag bouncing against her shins as she held it down in front of her till Meg swung by in her four seat pedal car, not as fast and luxurious as a motorized model but it still got one around well enough.

Along for the ride was Cole and Venessa, two friends Zoe met through Meg. The four convened at Pizza Petey’s Nightclub and Playroom, one of the hottest hang outs in the whole town. The whole place had a dance floor fitted with disco LED and strobe lights, an open juice bar, comfy dining area and a ball pit and jungle gym set. The main attraction of course was none other than Pizza Petey’s Party Palooza Band, an anthropomorphic music group with a hippo drummer, bear guitarist, elephant pianist, eagle on the tambourines and Pizza Petey himself as the singing wolf wearing his iconic pizza shaped kangol hat, all of whom performed alongside the usual on stage crib dancers and a line of opening indie acts.

As soon as they got there they went straight for the bar, Meg getting a tall sippy cup of grape juice, Cole and Venessa each a cool mix of apple juice and Zoe a small cup of strawberry milk as they all chatted it up while watching over the dance floor to scope out potential cuties or total duds.

“Girl for real, do you know how long it took to get the silly dough out of my hair? I had to get out the safety scissors and snip off some of the ends.” Cole laughed.

“Well at least your hair finally looks even now.” Meg teased.

Four guys suddenly approached them from off the dance floor.

“Excuse me, we couldn’t help but notice that you girls appeared to be unaccompanied and that’s rather dangerous in this neighborhood. Would you by any chance be lost and in need of some close adult supervision, preferably on the dance floor?” One of the guys asked in a short sleeve shirt under a pair of torn overall pants.

“That’s the most pathetic pick up line I’ve ever heard. But then again you are the cutest guy to have asked me to dance with him at this club so, alright.” Meg replied as she quickly downed her grape juice and offered her hand to the guy.

“Aren’t you supposed to be - “ Zoe leaned in to whisper.

“Seeing someone!? Yeah but it’s more of an open relationship.” Meg replied aloud.

“How open?” The guy asked.

“Open enough to a little dance. Any of you coming along?” Meg asked the others.

“Sure.” Cole responded.

“Yeah.” Venessa replied.

“You coming Zoe?” Meg asked.

“Uh - no. I look stupid dancing.” Zoe blushed.

“Suite yourself. Watch our diaper bags will you hun?” Meg replied.

The three of them stepped off onto the dance floor with their respective guy. Zoe sat back at the bar all by herself as she watched the others get down on the dance floor.

“Would you like some apple juice miss?” One of the bartenders asked.

“Uh, no thank you. I’ll just have some more strawberry milk pretty please.” Zoe replied as she hunched over the counter and kept her head low.

“If that’s what you like.” The bartender replied, though Zoe didn’t like the tone of his voice too well.

While the bartender was preparing her drink Zoe saw a familiar silhouette in the distant fog and disco lights. It was Ben, standing in the diner, fine dark hair pulled back in a long quiff, large brown eyes and a lean body in a a bright baby blue shirt and slim fit overalls and standing beside him was another girl sucking on a light up pacifier with medium long pigtails, a bright pink onesie, a studded leather belt that hung loosely by her hips and black high heeled boot that went all the way up to the knee.

She looked on as Ben accompanied the other girl down over to the other bar, her arm up over his shoulder as a sudden boiling sensation began to build up in Zoe’s stomach. The girl appeared to laugh and tease him as he ordered them a round of iced orange juice with lemon slices. From there, the two walked on over to the ball pit where they waded in the balls and watched the dance floor for a spell. Just then, the opening act exited the stage as the curtains parted, the smoke raised and out through the haze appeared the five distinct silhouettes of Pizza Petey’s animal smooth rock jamboree.

As the music dropped and the crowd began to cheer, Zoe saw Ben and the other girl get up and out of the ball pit and on to the dance floor, the two twisting and shaking, their stomachs bumping up against each other amid the hot crowded floor. The boiling sensation in Zoe’s stomach suddenly burned its way up to her chest, her throat, her head until it suddenly reached a crescendo and boiled over.

She jumped up out of her high seat, just as her strawberry milk arrived, and leaped onto the dance floor where she hooked up with one of the free guys dancing along with Meg and the others.

“Excuse me, would you like to dance with me?” Zoe said to him.

“Of course.” He replied as the two began to gyrate and jig, Zoe a bit less coordinated and rhythmic than the others.

She continued to dance awkwardly, keeping a fix on Ben from out the corner of her eye as she bounced and shuffled her way ever closer to him.

“So, you come by here frequently?” The guy asked.

“Wha - yeah, sure. All the time.” Zoe replied.

“You know, you don’t look like the other party girls I’m used to seeing around here.” The guy continued.

“Uh huh, all the time." Zoe replied as she backed all the way up till she forcefully bumped into the other girl dancing with Ben, knocking her off her balance.

“Ouchie!” The girl cried.

“Oh I’m sorry - oh hey Ben. I didn’t know you were here.” Zoe said.

“Zoe, hey! I didn’t figure you’d be in a place like this.” Ben replied.

“Who me? Of course. I love the nightlife.” Zoe giggled.

“Who’s this?” The girl Zoe bumped asked.

“Oh I’m Zoe - I’m an acquaintance of Ben. We’ve just known each other since high school is all. Who are you - his cousin? Friend?” Zoe asked with a painful grin.

“Yeah we’re friends. I just wanted to show Ben how cool this place was.” The girl replied.

“Oh that’s so nice of you. Ben always needed a sitter to look after him and chauffeur him around places.” Zoe laughed.

“Oh well I’m not a sitter - we’re just friends.” The girl replied.

“Oh well Ben could definitely use more of those.” Zoe continued to laugh.

“Right. And who’s that?” Ben asked, pointing to the guy Zoe was with.

“Oh him - he’s just a guy I met. One of several.” Zoe replied.

“Oh that’s nice. Well - have a nice night.” Ben said.

“Sure - you planning on staying long I assume?” Zoe asked.

“Not really, I have to work unfortunately tomorrow, down at the new construction site where they’re building the new shopping plaza.” Ben replied.

“Oh really, all day? That’s a shame. Well if you ever find yourself bored again and in need of taking care of you can always hit me up - and by taking care of I mean keep company and hang out with.” Zoe laughed nervously.

“Uh, thanks, I’ll consider that. See you later Zoe.” Ben replied as he and the other girl went back to dancing.

Zoe, blushing, slapped her hand against her forehead as she winced in agony for a brief moment.

“Was that Ben?” Meg asked nearby.

“Yes.” Zoe grumbled.

“I didn’t know he was seeing someone. She’s kind of cute. By the way, who’s watching our diaper bags?” Meg asked.

In a panic, Zoe looked over to the bar where she spotted only three of their diaper bags as they’d left them. Hers was the one missing.

“Excuse me, did you see anyone walk off with a rhinestone diaper bag here!?” Zoe asked as she ran up to the bartender.

“I think I saw a guy walk off with one. That guy over by the jungle gym.” The bartender pointed to a guy with short spiky hair and large shorts walking into the jungle gym play area with a rhinestone diaper bag.

“Thank you!” Zoe said as she darted off toward the guy.

She cut and weaved through the crowd as she eventually caught up to the guy.

“Hey you, give me that diaper bag!” Zoe shouted, alarming the guy as he took off up the winding slide to evade her.

Zoe pursued, climbing up the spiral slide hot on his heels. Just as they’d gotten to the top where they ran past a couple that was necking, Zoe made a desperate lunge for the bag as she snatched on to it and pulled the guy back.

“Give me that bag!” Zoe shouted.

“No, it’s mine.” The guy said pulling back.

“No, it’s mine!” Zoe shouted back as she freed the bag from his clutches and sent him tumbling back on his behind.

With a sigh of relief Zoe opened the bag only to find a pack of skull printed diapers in it, the kind of diapers she would never wear.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” Zoe said to the guy as he got up and wiped a tear from his face.

“You’re a meanie.” The guy replied as he snatched his diaper bag back and crawled off into one of the jungle gym tunnels.

“Jeez girl, do you often bully people at the jungle gym?” The girl who was necking with her boy toy commented.

Zoe, blushing once again, hung her head low as she slid on down the slide and returned in search for her missing diaper bag.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Jun 21, 2021 at 9:59 PM
Content: Part 4

The following morning Zoe took the bus all the way down to Meg’s apartment across town. It was cosy little flat, nothing luxurious, but it put Zoe’s building to shame with its more modern architecture design with light blue, pink and white building block brickwork, an adult sized kiddie pool, a gorgeous flower garden out in the front, a recreation play room and plenty of legos in the lobby. Nine floors up, all of which summated in an exhausting walk up what with the elevator being broken, Zoe knocked upon the door of Meg’s flat for some time with no response.

Before her patience could run out, Meg finally opened the door, covered in nothing more than a short silk robe held over a diaper, leaving her thick and toned thighs well exposed, a result of having to work her pedal car around everywhere.

“Oh hey Zoe, what are you doing here so early?” Meg asked as she finished tying up her robe.

“I just figured I’d stop by - and ask to see if you by any chance had any extra diaper bags on hand that I could borrow.” Zoe replied, awkwardly avoiding eye contact.

“Oh of course, come in.” Meg said as she stepped aside and let Zoe into the apartment.

Meg’s place was quite lavished, especially for how much she and Zoe were making at the candy company, though then again Meg didn’t have to worry about the kind of student loans Zoe was straddled with every month. There was a kitchen area with marble countertops, a living room complete with a plastic coffee table, fancy couch and comfy chair, a beanbag chair, flat screen tv, and plenty of flowery plants to decorate the place.

“Did you not get your diaper bag back from Pizza Petey’s?” Meg asked.

“No.” Zoe mumbled.

“Wasn’t your phone in that bag?” Meg continued.

“Yes.” Zoe pouted.

“Oh baby, just sit down and all make you a warm cup of herbal juice. How’s that sound?” Meg asked.

“Fine - and don’t call me baby.” Zoe replied as she plopped her butt down on Meg’s couch.

“Okay, I’ll go get you my old bag with the faux leather. And I’ll even throw in a few diapers for you. How’s that?” Meg said as she got her cups and herbal juice formula out of the cupboard.

“That’s fine I guess.” Zoe mumbled.

“Oh and did you hear - Timmy our Supervisor is looking for a new sales manager now that Danial’s leaving.” Meg said as she heated up some water in the microwave.

“Really?” Zoe said, her head suddenly perking up.

“Yeah - you gonna go for it?” Meg asked as she finished preparing their cups of juice.

“I - I don’t know. You think I should?” Zoe asked as Meg came back from out of the kitchen and served her her cup of juice.

“Of course. I’m applying for it. But they’re looking for someone with an impressive sales average and my average is doodie. Do you think you can help me improve my sales?” Meg asked.

“Uh - sure. I guess I can do that.” Zoe replied, taking a sip of her juice.

“Great. I’ll go get you my purse here in a minute. We just have to be quiet while we’re out here so as to not wake up Nicky sleeping in the bedroom.” Meg said.

“Nicky slept over here last night. Does he know about you dancing with those guys last night?” Zoe whispered.

“Of course. He said he wanted to come over late last night and so he came, we talked and then we had some fun.” Meg replied with a gleeful grin.

“Yuck. I don’t know how you can stand to sleep in that crib after all the ‘fun’ you’ve had in it. I’m surprised you haven’t thrown it out by now.” Zoe remarked as she set her cup down on the coffee table.

“I keep my crib clean. Besides, if I threw out a piece of furniture I wrestled dirty on with a boy I'd have to trash my playpen, changing table, exercise mat, comfy chair and my coffee table.” Meg replied as Zoe quickly picked her juice cup back up from off the coffee table.

“I don’t know how a guy can trust a girl when she’s out having fun with other boys all the time.” Zoe replied.

“It’s just some innocent fun. Besides, it’s trust that makes our relationship work. I can’t be grumpy and keep shoving other girls around all the time for wanting to play with my boy. If you can’t trust them then how can they trust you?” Meg replied.

“Well - it’d be nice if they at least told you when and who all they were going out with just so you’d know.” Zoe pouted.

“Huh?” Meg replied.

“Never mind.” Zoe sighed.

“Oh, I think I hear Nicky getting up. Let me just go check up on him.” Meg said as she skipped on out of the room, leaving Zoe sitting alone on the couch sipping on her juice cup as she irritatingly listened to Meg giggling ecstatically in the next room over.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Jul 3, 2021 at 9:36 PM
Content: Part 5

Back at work on Monday, Zoe and Meg met up back in the staff lounge where they discussed tips on sales work.

“Here, I can give you a list of my best clients. These people will buy anything in bulk, even the gross yucky hard candy.” Zoe said, handing Meg a handwritten list of client information.

“Thank you. So would you mind handling the list of problem customers I’ve been dealing with? They’re just real buttheads. Really picky and extremely whiny.” Meg replied.

“Sure. You know, it’s great that Danny’s leaving and they’re hiring for a new supervisor. After years of so much stress and hard work it’s nice to have something worth working toward. And with the two of us together, I’m sure one of us is likely to get the position.” Zoe said.

“Well, let’s be honest. I’m sure the one with the highest sales average will likely be the one to take it.” Meg replied with a smirk.

“Well --” Zoe replied bashfully as her cheeks blushed.

“Anyway, thanks for the leading tips. Oh, and thank you for taking that phone call for me earlier when I had to go to the powder room. That customer is one of the worst, especially since I messed up their last order like the total poo-poo head I am.” Meg said.

“Oh it was nothing. Besides, I’m used to dealing with tantrums. Some people are just total babies.” Zoe replied.

“Shhhh.” Meg suddenly shushed her as a guy with slick hair and a suit with bowtie and suspenders came in the room.

“Hey girls, Meg I still need your report sheet for last week.” He said to them.

“Okay Timmy, I’ll get right on that.” Meg replied in a derisive tone too subtle for Timmy to pick up on.

“Alright - and Zoe, one of our clients you sold to, the Candy Express, they called and said that they didn’t get the chocolate bunnies they’d ordered so I’m sending you there personally to meet with them after you’re done in the office today.” Timmy said to her.

“But they’re at least half an hour out of town, and I don’t have a car.” Zoe replied.

“There’s a cab that can take you there, I’m sure. All we need you to do is reassure them that we’ll have a new shipment sent to them as soon as possible and throw in a bonus case of marshmello ducks all free of charge. Just be sure to write down your hours, oh and be sure to give me your adjusted hours for last week too.” Timmy said.

“But - but.” Zoe mumbled.

“So long girls.” Timmy said as he walked on out of the room.

“Such a stink butt, am I right?” Meg said.

“It’s not fair, how’s it my fault that a candy shipment never got delivered. This is such - poo poo.” Zoe said quietly.

“Zoe, I hardly ever hear you swear like that. Oh, it’s not too bad. So you have to work late tonight. It’s not like I haven’t had to pay a personal visit to a client before.” Meg replied.

“Do you think you could give me a ride there?” Zoe asked.

“Sorry, I’m meeting Nicky tonight.” Meg replied.

“Fine, I’ll take the late bus I guess. Cabs are too expensive around here.” Zoe griped.

“Ooh, that reminds me. Me and the girls are having a playdate on Saturday, Venessa got a new playhouse and she’s invited us to come see it. You wanna come?” Meg asked.

“Sure. Who all’s gonna be there?” Zoe replied.

“Me, Venessa, Cole, oh and Kim’s gonna be there too.” Meg replied.

“Kim?” Zoe clarified.

“Yeah, I know. She can be kind of a brat sometimes, but she doesn’t have many other friends to hang out with and we decided to be nice and invite her along too. I’m sure she won’t be that much of a grump-butt while we’re there. Besides, she owns her own clothing store and she can get us great deals. Well, we better get back to work before old stink-butt comes along again.” Meg said.

“Right.” Zoe mumbled as she quickly sucked down her milk bottle.

That night Zoe returned home late, hot and exhausted from a long commute across town to meet a bunch of whiny, ungrateful clients. She skipped dinner, instead jumping straight into the bathtub for a short cold bubble bath. A quick scrub, a fresh diaper and a short bedtime story and Zoe turned in after another long, hard day.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Aug 31, 2021 at 12:47 AM
Content: Part 6

That Saturday, Zoe marked her long, arduous week without her phone which had been stolen along with her diaper bag. She’d managed well enough without social media, in fact she sort of feels a bit less cranky and anxious about the world without it, but being without immediate contact with the few friends she frequently spoke to has been an utter pain in the padded butt. After sleeping in late and rushing to down an early bottle of milk for breakfast, she was picked up by Meg who gave her a lift down to Venessa’s place just a short way across town.

There, Zoe, Meg, Vanessa and Cole got together around Venessa’s brand new luxury dollhouse, not as expensive as the fold out mansion playset with a pool and horse stable, but still big enough for all of them to play with. Zoe brought along her Jenny doll in her elegant designer mini dress and white sun hat. Meg brought her limited edition Daryl doll with tropical swim trunks and beach shirt, Cole her Breanna doll with complementary sports car and Venessa her entire collection of dolls and accessories which she was kind enough to share.

“Okay, I say that Daryl and Rob should hang with Breanna by the pool while Jasmine and Jenny go shopping together.” Meg said.

“But no, Rob’s dating Jasmine. She wouldn’t just let him hang with Breanna.” Venessa replied.

“What Jasmine doesn’t know won’t hurt her. Besides, they’re with Daryl, they’re just talking, that’s all.” Meg responded.

“Uh, Breanna’s interested in Dezmin. She has no time for Rob.” Cole added.

“But none of us even have a Dezmin.” Zoe pointed out.

“Isn’t Kim supposed to be bringing some dolls?” Venessa asked.

“Hopefully she might not show up at all.” Meg replied.

Just then a knock came at the door.

“Speak of the little monster.” Meg said as she got up to answer the door.

A second later she reemerged with Kim, tall and thin with short hair, a plane tee-shirt and a black designer overalls. She took her seat right beside Zoe on the floor yet a short ways back out of the circle of friends.

“So Kim, what dolly did you bring?” Venessa asked.

“Uh, my Ariana doll.” Kim replied.

“Ooh, can I play with her?” Cole asked.
“Uh - no. I brought her so I could play with her.” Kim replied, leaving Cole a bit sore.

“So uh - Kim, how’s your business going?” Meg asked.

“It’s fine.” Kim replied.

“Nice - well before you got here we were talking about Breanna hanging out with Daryl and Rob in the bedroom - I mean pool, while Jasmine and Jenny go shopping for clothes.” Meg informed her.

“You can play with my Rob doll Kim.” Venessa said.

“Uh - no. I don’t want a boy doll.” Kim replied.

“So Kim, do you think it’s appropriate for Rob to play with Breanna without his gal pal Jasmine there?” Meg asked.

“I don’t know. Does it matter?” Kim replied.

“My point exactly. What do you think Zoe?” Meg asked.

“Uh.” Zoe began to speak.

“She doesn’t understand this kind of thing.” Venessa replied.

“Oh hush up, just because Zoe’s never really had a boy toy doesn’t mean she can’t understand jealousy.” Meg replied.

“Uh, I have no opinion. Honestly.” Zoe replied bashfully.

“Oh really, then how did you feel when you saw Ben out with that one girl last weekend?” Meg asked.

“Uh, I don’t know what you mean. What - Why would I feel anything?” Zoe replied.

“Oh please, everyone practically saw you turn green when you saw those two in the ball pit together.” Meg said.

“Ooh.” Venessa and Cole remarked in unison.

“Hush up.” Zoe grouched.

“Oh come Zoe, why don’t you ask him on a play date already? If you don’t, I will.” Meg replied with a malevolent smirk.

“Because - because, uh - Kim, what do you think?” Zoe asked.

“Honestly, I couldn’t care less about drooling boy toys. They’re more of a headache than anything else.” Kim replied.

“See, my point exactly.” Zoe said.

“Sure. I just happen to know that Ben’s available tomorrow. Want me to text him? I’ll explain how you lost your phone and asked me to tell him. Or I can ask his friend to ask and see if he’s interested in you.” Meg said.

“No you can’t! Because - “ Zoe stuttered to speak.

“Because?” Meg repeated.

“Because - I want to ask him!” Zoe shouted out before she realized what it was she said.

“Ooh. Zoe I knew you had it in you. Just promise to keep me posted on how that goes.” Meg replied.

“Posted - uh, right. Sure.” Zoe.

“So Kim, are there any super secret discounts you might be offering at your store by any chance?” Meg asked.

“No.” Kim said coldly.

“Oh - well hopefully everything’s going good for your business at least.” Meg continued.

“Everything’s just fine. It’s just a stupid design I’m looking for for marketing purposes but all these design companies are real brats.” Kim replied while rolling her eyes.

“Oh, Zoe’s good at drawing, maybe she can give you a design for cheap.” Meg said.

‘Really, you know how to draw? May I see some of your work?” Kim said with her nose held high.

“Um, I guess so. I don’t think you’d be interested though.” Zoe replied anxiously.

“Nonsense. You can see it all on her Chirp profile. She lost her phone recently but I can show you it all later.” Meg replied.

“Well, if I like your work I can see about offering you a graphic design contract for my business. That is if you’d be interested or course.” Kim said.

“Oh of course she’s interested. A little extra cash would do anyone some good.” Meg replied.

“Uh - sure, I guess so.” Zoe muttered.

“Very well. I’ll reach online - or in person if you’d prefer.” Kim said to her.

“Uh, okay.” Zoe shrugged.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Oct 2, 2021 at 3:55 AM
Content: Part 7

Later, after Zoe was dropped back off at her apartment, she was approached by one of the receptionists in the main lobby on her way to the elevator who informed her that the police had stopped by to inform her that her diaper bag had been retrieved and that she was to pick it up at the station as soon as possible. Of course this meant a long bus ride across town, but it was worth it to get her phone back.

By that afternoon Zoe had her phone back, uncharged and with a crack in the screen, but she had it back with the culprit who took it sentenced to a spanking with five months in timeout. The moment she plugged her phone in though, it immediately began to buzz with all the text and notifications she’d long missed, including a bunch of conversations from. . .

Ben!

‘Wait, what could he be wanting from her!?’ she thought. Sure he had her number, Meg had given it to him two years ago when they first met, but he hadn’t texted her in what felt like ages ago. Her hands trembled just slightly enough to keep her from reading the message chain. When she did open up the text she fell into immediate shock.

Hey, would u like to hang out Fri? Maybe at the new playground

She was taken back. They’d never hung out together alone. She was stunned, she was elated, she was too late. The text came from last Wednesday.

Zoe gave a loud moan and stomped her feet in a fit. He was likely to think she’d snubbed him and left him hanging. He was likely to be grumpy with her. She could tell him what happened, but would he believe her? Hands sweaty and shaking, she fumbled to reply back.

Hey - soory i mised ur text. Me phone got stollen an i just got it bac today. I wold like to hang out w u at the now playground

She sent the message, misspellings and all. She didn’t know how a grown woman with a professional job could look so stupid in a single text. It’s not like she even knew why she was so nervous to begin with. After all she was just asking to hang out with a friend.

Zoe waited by her phone for a minute, then five, then ten, then an hour, then two. She got no reply. She took a jog around the block and still no reply. She binged her favorite show, The Magical Adventure of Princess Rainbow Star, and still no reply. She prepared a meal of mashed sweet potatoes and carrots, applesauce, cheese and crackers and a warm bottle of milk and still no reply. She changed her diaper, took a bath, and read a bedtime story, and still no reply. By bedtime, she’d given up hope and was prepared to turn in.

Just then her phone buzzed.

Zoe fumbled to pick it up. When she looked at it she saw it wasn’t a text from Ben but rather a notification from her Picturegram account, from Kim.

Hey it’s Kim - the girl you met at Vanessa’s - just asking to see if you’d be interested in possibly collaborating in coming up with a logo for my store. If so then maybe we can discuss business over caffeinated milk or something.

Zoe’s disappointment was quickly overtaken by her shock. She never honestly expected to hear back from Kim or that anyone on Earth would want to pay her for her artwork. It was strange, yet an opportunity nonetheless. Besides she could use the money, although it would mean having to put up with Kim and her grumpy-butt attitude. She mulled it over for a long while before nervously agreeing to give it a shot.

Zoe - Hi, I’d be glad to meet up for caffeinated milk or whatever.

Kim - Cool - how about the donut shack down by the playground Fri?

Zoe - Okay. See u then

And on that note Zoe set her alarm, locked up her crib and went to sleep with her thumb in her mouth and a feeling of dread in her stomach over having missed Ben’s offer to hang out.

The next morning Zoe woke up, again checking her phone first thing only to find no other notifications aside from her battery being low since she’d forgotten to plug it in last night. After a light breakfast of pureed peas, Zoe went about her semi-daily exercise routine consisting of a few stretches, reaching for her toes, lifting weights, jumping jacks and dancing to her workout mix with her favorite tv program, Wake Up and Wiggle. A quick diaper change later and Zoe commenced to her usual habit of scrolling through social media, drawing in her coloring book and playing with her toys in front of the tv. Later, after lunch, she decided to be a bit more productive with her time and began to clean out her bathroom. It was then she remembered that she’d forgotten to do her laundry and her easy oven needed cleaned out and her stuffed animals needed reorganized and her shopping list needed made up.

Her day off suddenly became just another busy day.

By the time she’d finished her chores, the day was already lost. She only had time for a light dinner before her bedtime, no bath. She heated a bowl of leftover mashed sweet potato, got a cold bottle of milk and plopped down on the couch, only to get back up upon realizing that she still had yet to charge her phone. She got up, got her phone and saw the text

...from Ben!

Cool, would Fri after work do for u?

Zoe felt her chest rocket up to the ceiling.

Yes Yes Yes!!!!!!

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Jan 29, 2022 at 4:10 AM
Content: Part 8

All work Friday, Zoe could think of nothing more aside for her date with Ben at the playground after she got off. No aggravated client or paperwork overload could keep her down. She even helped tutore Meg on how to appropriately organize and log her work data and client info. Honestly, she could have done all of Meg’s work for her with how ecstatic she was feeling that day. It was as if the sun was shining, and it was never going to set.

Just half an hour before she was set to clock off, Zoe was nearly completed with all her daily workload when she got a buzz on her phone. She checked to see what it was.

Kim ‘Hey - we’re still meeting at the donut shack, right?’

“Oh poop!” Zoe said aloud to herself.

She’d forgotten about her little business meeting Kim down at the donut shop right by the playground, the playground where she was supposed to meet Ben. Big dummy, what was she going to do? She didn’t want to miss out on a playdate with Ben, especially over a small-time business conversation with someone as big a pain in the butt as Kim. But then again, she could always reschedule another date with Ben and this gig for Kim could actually earn her a little extra cash. Ugh - why did the fate of the whole universe have to pick on her like this?

She was so distressed that the sweat from her face began to run the blush off her cheeks. Maybe she could postpone the date with Ben. She got another buzz on her phone.

Ben ‘Hey I’m on my way to the playground right now. See u there.’

Oh darn! It would be mean of her to just leave Ben at the playground for an hour waiting for her. She had two engagements and two people dependent on her commitment. Zoe almost couldn’t think as anxiety overcame her senses.

She got it, she thought. She would keep both engagements. After all, what could go wrong? Her meeting with Kim shouldn’t take long and maybe Ben might want some donuts. That’s it, she’ll keep both dates. What could go wrong?

Zoe clocked out of work five minutes early just so to be sure she didn’t miss the bus. She quickly rushed down to the playground where she saw Ben sitting on the steps of the shiny new jungle gym.

“Hey Ben.” Zoe greeted him as she ran up to him.

“Hey, you look cute.” He replied.

“Thanks, you do too (cough) I guess. So how was work?” Zoe asked, trying to keep a cool demeanor.

“Same old. Missing building blocks, guys skipping a step in construction, the usual. And how was your day?” Ben asked.

“Uh, you know, the usual. Just busy busy busy.” Zoe replied.

“Hey, you want to go down the twisty slide?” Ben asked.

Zoe suddenly got a buzz on her phone from Kim.

“I’m here”

“Uh, later. I have to go check my make up real quick. I’ll just be in that donut shop over there across the street. You can just hang here.” Zoe said as she quickly hurried off along the crosswalk and over to the donut shop.

Inside she looked about till she spotted Kim sitting at a table over by the window.

“Hey Kim, I hope I’m on time.” Zoe said as she immediately sat down across from her, a little out of breath from her mild jog.

“You’re fine. Would you like to order something before we get started? I can pay.” Kim asked.

“Uh, well in that case I’ll take the most expensive item on the menu.” Zoe laughed only to find Kim sternly unamused.

She began to tremble a bit in her chair.

“Um, I’ll just have a sippy cup of warm chocolate milk.” Zoe replied nervously.

“Fine. I can order donuts for the both of us as well. So, tell me about your professional experience as a drawer.” Kim asked.

“Uh well - I don’t actually have any paid experience really. I just draw for fun.” Zoe asked.

“ - Okay. But you do know how to draw from what I’ve seen. How long would you say it usually takes you to draw a single picture, from start to finish?” Kim asked.

“Uhhhh, I don’t know. I sort of - lose track of time when I draw. It’s more of an escape for me.” Zoe replied as she looked out the window to the playground across the way and saw Ben sitting alone on one of the rocking spring horses looking as bored as can be.

“Right, so - - “ Kim began to say.

“I’ll have to go. I - I forgot to put coins in the parking meter. Silly me.” Zoe said, cutting Kim off as she quickly snatched her diaper bag and ran off.

Outside, she rushed across the road just before as the traffic light turned green and made her way on over to Ben.

“Hey Ben, you want to go on that twisty slide now?” Zoe said gleefully as she ran up to him.

“Uh, there’s kind of a line for it now. Maybe we can just sit here and chat for a while.” Ben said as he rocked back and forth.

“Okay, sure. So, what ever made you want to get into architecture?” Zoe asked as she took the rocking duck next to Ben.

“Oh, it was just something I’d always wanted to do since I was a little. I used to build things all the time with my toys and boxes. Even built a sturdy pillow fort I slept in for years. I still occasionally sleep in pillow forts every now and again. I don’t know, it was just something that’s kind of deep inside you. You know?” Ben replied with a warm smile.

“Ugh, I wish I knew where I wanted to go in life. My head’s mostly been in the clouds like a big old silly goose.” Zoe replied before suddenly wishing she actually hadn’t said that.

“Well, I’m sure you’ll figure it out some day. You can’t be lost in life forever I think.” Ben said.

“Yeah. Uh listen, I actually ordered some donuts when I was at the shop. I’m gonna go check and see if they’re ready. Be right back.” Zoe said as she promptly ran off back down the street before the light was red, forcing a car to honk at her in frustration.

Back in the shop, Zoe took her seat across from Kim who was texting on her phone.

“I’m back! Ugh, it’s getting to be so expensive to park these days the city’s practically going to own my car off me with how much I’ve given them.” Zoe said.

“ - Right. So, look - I don’t have all the money in the world right now and I was wondering just how much would you think you'll need for a gig like this, concept sketches and all?” Kim asked.

“Uh, I have no clue. I can take maybe fifty dollars for concept sketches and thirteen dollars an hour for the final designs?” Zoe replied with uncertainty.

“Thirteen dollars an hour?” Kim repeated.

“I mean ten dollars an hour and only twenty-five for the sketches.” Zoe said in a panic.

Kim just looked at her with a stern glare.

“Okay. That should work fine.” Kim finally replied as she opened up her laptop and began typing notes.

Just as their order arrived, Zoe looked out the window and saw Ben checking his phone for the time.

“So, what kind of software do you - - “ Kim began to ask.

“Uh, I have to visit the changing room and, silly me, I left my baby powder in the car. I’ll be right back - oh, I’ll just take some of these donuts to eat along the way.” Zoe said as she got up, nabbing the plate of donuts and running out the door, leaving Kim flabbergasted and alone at the table.

Zoe ran across the street, stopping short of getting hit by a car before rushing on over to Ben with the plate of donuts in her hand. Just before she could reach him, she tripped and fell, scraping her knee and spilling the donuts all over the ground as all the people around her began to point and laugh at her.

“Oh geez! Are you okay Zoe?” Ben rushed up and asked her.

“Yeah. Just got a boo-boo on my knee.” Zoe said as she got up and checked her leg.

“Here let me help you up.” Ben said as he tried to lift her up.

“No - no. I’m fine. I’m not a baby you know.” Zoe replied as her cheeks went flush.

“Well, I’m just trying to be nice. We are friends after all.” Ben said.

“We are? I mean, I know that. Just friends.” Zoe.

“Zoe?” A voice intervened.

Zoe looked up and saw Kim standing by with her diaper bag over her shoulder and a cup of caffeinated milk in her hand.

“Kim! Uh, hi. I just saw my friend Ben here at the playground and I just had to see what he was up to. It’s not like I’m one of those ditzy girls that just go around chasing after boys or nothing.” Zoe said as she quickly got up, a bead of sweat along her forehead.

“ - Right. Uh, look - I’ve got another meeting I should be getting to. You mind if I call you in regard to the drawing contract?” Kim asked.

“Uh, yeah! Of course. Uh, anytime. I’ll be waiting to hear back. Just be sure to shout real loud, I’m up on the eleventh floor.” Zoe giggled awkwardly.

“ - Right. Well, I’ll call you.” Kim said as she turned and walked away looking down at the phone in her hand.

“Who was that?” Ben asked.

“Oh that’s just a - girl friend. Not that kind of girlfriend. Just a friend - who’s a girl.” Zoe replied.

“Right. Well listen, I don’t mean to cut our get together short or nothing, but I’ve got to get home and take my bath. I’ll talk to you later Zoe.” Ben said.

“Okay, cool. Uh, I’ll talk to you later too. Bye bye.” Zoe said as she waved him farewell before he walked off.

When he was well enough away, Zoe let out a long sigh before collecting her pride and sauntering on home. There, she would plop face down in her crib where she moaned loudly. How could she be so dumb? She ruined everything with Kim and Ben all because she couldn’t make up her mind. She’s goofy. She’s always been that way and by now she thinks she’ll never change. Sometimes she feels like she’s just a big baby.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Feb 14, 2022 at 3:33 AM
Content: Part 9

The next day, Zoe hung out with Meg, Venessa and Cole who she poured her grievances out to while everyone ate outside one of the local restaurants.

“I’m a stinking dummy.” Zoe sulked.

“Oh, come on Zoe, don’t be so hard on yourself. Everyone makes mistakes. Besides, Ben’s an understanding guy and Kim - well, it’s best you didn’t have to put up with that little brat anyway.” Meg consoled her with a mouth full of cheerios.

“It’s not just that. My whole life’s been one big mistake after another. My old meanie friends in high school, my job, the college I went to.” Zoe said without eating so much as a single bite of her mashed peas.

“What college did you go to?” Cole asked.

“Little Learners Community College.” Both Meg and Zoe said in unison.

“I majored in Story Book Studies. What good that was.” Zoe went on.

“Didn’t Ben go there?” Venessa asked.

“No, he went to Big Tike University to study architecture.” Zoe replied.

Zoe then got a buzz on his phone.

“Hey Zoe, I got tickets to see a Denny the Dragon concert. Would you like to come with?” Ben

“Oh my gosh! Ben just asked me to go to a Denny concert with him. I - I don’t know what to say.”Zoe said.

“Say yes! This is your big chance to finally get him.” Meg encouraged her.

“Yes, say yes.” Cole and Venessa echoed.

“Yeah, sure.” Zoe texted back.

“I said yes.” Zoe told the girls.

“Good for you. See girls, Zoe can be quite the attractive little flower too. You see the bee she just got?” Meg remarked.

“Yeah, and the more attractive the flower, the quicker it gets pollinated.” Venessa replied.

“Pollinated?” Zoe said, confused.

“Oh, hush up. Zoe’s a good little girl. She wouldn’t be interested in playing a little birds and bees on the second playdate.” Meg said.

“Birds and bees?” Zoe said in a bit of a sweat.

“Oh see, now you’re spooking her. Don’t pay any attention to them Zoe. They’re just teasing.” Meg said.

“Yeah, of course. I know that.” Zoe replied, her hand trembling as she tried to eat her peas.

“Of course - if you do ever decide to play dirty, I can hook you up with the right toys and accessories. You know, to keep it safe.” Meg said with a naughty grin.

“Uh, no thanks. That won’t be necessary.” Zoe said as she quivered so much that she spilled mashed peas on her shirt.

“Oh Zoe, look what you did. Did you not bring your bib with you?” Meg said as she began wiping Zoe’s dress with a napkin.

“I’m fine. I just have to go powder my diaper real quick.” Zoe said as she got up and went inside to the changing room.

After waiting for a group of teens to change themselves while chatting it up with one another, Zoe added a little fresh powder to her slightly damp diaper before wiping down her dress with a wet wipe. After washing up her hands, she checked her phone again.

“Cool! I’ll pick you up next Sat.” Ben.

Zoe trembled thinking about the date. Zoe hadn’t been on a real grown-up playdate before and she didn’t know what exactly Ben’s expectations of her would be. Would he like to take her out to eat first? Would he take her over to his place? Would he expect her to sleep over? Zoe was as ecstatic as she was nervous. She’d hardly kissed a boy on the cheek, nonetheless played birds and bees before. It was all just too much for her to take. She got another buzz on the phone.

“Hey, it's Kim. I’d like to finish going over the final details of our drawing contract. Would you mind meeting me over at my place sometime this week?”

Wait, Kim actually wants to hire her!? That’s great - and scary. Zoe never had someone pay her for her work before. Is she up to the task? Oh, why does all of this have to be so difficult.

“Sure, how’s Friday?” Zoe replied back.

“OK. I’ll text you directions and the Apt. number.” Kim replied.

Zoe took a long breath to control herself before returning back outside to the girls.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Feb 28, 2022 at 4:24 AM
Content: Part 10

That Friday, after another long productive week of work, Zoe hopped on the bus and rode down to meet up with Kim at her apartment. Once there, still dressed in her usual work attire of a button up dress shirt with matching jacket, Zoe knocked upon the door with her computer case and diaper bag over her shoulder. After no initial response, Zoe knocked upon the door again and rang the bell.

“Coming!” Kim’s muffled, grouchy voice could be heard on the other side.

Eventually, Kim answered the door.

“Hey, come in.” Kim said.

“Thank you.” Zoe replied as she stepped in cautiously.

The apartment was big with a large spacious living room that included a dining table and a large open kitchen. She had a big coffee table, large flat screen TV, a long white couch with a matching comfy chair and a brand new state of the art exercise jumper seat. There was little to no color whatsoever, with everything either being pure white, black or a shade of gray. There was a small cabinet with fancy plastic utensils and a whole line of clear sippy cups. There were gorgeous flowers all about the place in clear plastic vases and a large abstract finger painting on the wall adjacent to the TV. Zoe was almost too afraid to touch anything.

“Would you like anything to drink? Apple juice, grape juice, orange juice?” Kim asked.

“Uh, no thanks. I just had a full bottle of milk earlier.” Zoe replied.

“Fine - I’ll have some orange juice myself. You can have a seat on the couch and we can discuss some ideas about what designs we can make for the store. I also have a little contract my legal partner cooked up for you to sign. Do you have a legal team by any chance?” Kim asked as she stepped into the kitchen area and got a clean new sippy cup off the shelf.

“Uh, no. I handle all the legal aspects myself.” Zoe said nervously as she gently sat herself down on the couch.

“Great, then this should be easy. Just read over the document there on the coffee table and let me know what you think of it.” Kim said from within the kitchen.

Zoe picked up the paper she saw on the coffee table and briefly skimmed over it.

Contractor will provide the following services. . .

Recipient will pay in compensation to the amount of. . .

All other fees and/or expenses to be approved in advance. . .

Understood that this is an independent contractor opportunity. . .

Zoe quickly became flustered and disoriented trying to read through it all.

“You are a limited liability, correct?” Kim asked as she walked into the room with a cup of juice in her hand.

“Uh, no. I don’t think so.” Zoe replied.

“Well, we can worry about all that later. For now, I’d just like to hear a few ideas you may have regarding the overall design theme for the store.” Kim asked as she sat in the comfy chair.

“Well, I figured that since your store sells a lot of cozy furniture and lounge wear and it is called The Dream House, I was thinking more of a dreamy sort of cloud design with a sleepy little moon and pretty little stars and a unicorn because unicorns are always cute - see!” Zoe responded as she got out a sketch she’d made in crown.

Kim eyed the picture for a second with a cold stare.

“That’s dumb. I was thinking of something more subtle and minimalistic. Maybe just the name of the store and a tiny, little symbol or whatever.” Kim replied.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I just thought it might be a fun representation of your store and would attract a lot of customers.” Zoe replied dejectedly.

“Well, we can work on it. I’ll show your sketch to my friends and see what they think of it but until then let's get this whole contract business done and out of the way first - okay?” Kim said.

“Okay,” Zoe replied with a little frown.

After a long evening receiving a crash course in legal contract work with Kim, Zoe walked home having missed the late bus back through town. Her feet aching, she took a long hot bubble bath before changing into a fresh diaper and falling into her crib with a bowl of mashed vegetables, the only thing keeping her from utterly collapsing from exhaustion being her date with Ben the following night. She was as filled to the brim with excitement as she was terribly nervous about a possible relationship with Ben. She liked him very much, but she’d never been in a serious adult relationship before. Meanwhile, she assumed Ben to have had plenty and wasn’t certain what he’d expect of her. Whatever the case, a nice night’s sleep would do her well.

The following day, Zoe spent much of the day relaxing, watching TV, reading through her social feeds and playing with her dolls. She spent nearly the whole hour before Ben was expected to pick her up just getting ready, doing her make-up, curling her pigtails, putting on her best mini dress with pink polka dots and using up the last of her sample perfume bottles that made her smell like a thick bouquet of flowers. She stood outside by the curb waiting for Ben, fifteen minutes past when he’d promised to pick her up. At a certain point, she’d begun to sweat part of her make-up off as she grew increasingly nervous fearing that she’d just been ghosted.

Just when she felt she was about to tear up, a shiny new motorized car pulled over onto the other side of the street and honked its horn.

“Zoe, over here!” She heard a familiar voice from across the way.

It was Ben!

Zoe rushed over to the other side of the street and hopped into the passenger seat where the two drove on toward the concert being held at the big venue downtown. Performing was none other than Denny the Dragon, one of the hottest fantasy singers in the world. The concert hall was huge with over a thousand or so guys and girls all gathered around with their light up pacifiers and glow sticks. The concert was headlined by Jessica and the Rainbow Fairies, one of Zoe’s favorite indie bands. Denny was as great as expected with confetti and glitter cannons going off all over the place while Denny sung his greatest hits including Everybody Clean Up, Scrub Scrub Scrub, his rendition of ABC’s and, of course, his ever famous Sleepy-Bye Blues. The whole time, Zoe jumped and danced next to Ben in the tight crowd.

“I love Denny the Dragon. I have all his songs on My-Tunes. So, you helped construct this place?” Zoe shouted.

“Yeah. It was real fun. We even had a layer of insulating gel painted on the roof to reflect sunlight during the day and keep the place warm at night. Saves on energy.” Ben replied.

“That’s - cool. So, you attend concerts like this often?” Zoe asked.

“Sometimes. It depends on what everyone else is up to. Hey, I know of a great Denny documentary that’s streaming on Daisy Plus. You can come over to my place and watch it with me after this concert is over.” Ben said.

“Uh, sure. Why not?” Zoe replied, a bit uneasily.

After the concert, Zoe was given a ride over to Ben’s apartment, a medium sized flat with a large living room space furnished with several chairs, a bouncy seat, a wide couch and an extra-large playpen beside a folded-up exercise mat, a big kitchen and a small balcony, all with a blue, purple and green motif.

“Well, this is it. How do you like it?” Ben asked as they stepped through the door.

“Oh, it’s so nice. I like it. You must really make a lot as an architect. Not to get all that personal.” Zoe replied as she looked on in amazement.

“Oh, I make just enough. Go ahead, have a seat. Do you want anything to drink?” Ben asked.

“Sure, got any milk?” Zoe asked as she walked into the living room.

“Yeah, I’m sure I got some formula left somewhere.” Ben replied.

Zoe sat down delicately on the couch while Ben prepared a warm bottle of milk. Zoe fixed the skirt of her dress and squished her diaper just lightly to feel how wet she was just before Ben came back and plopped down next to her on the couch with her bottle in hand as he turned on the TV and started up the documentary.

“I think you’re going to love this documentary. It shows everything from Denny’s start in the Fairy Tale Friends to his signing with Lollipop Records.” Ben said as he handed Zoe her bottle which she immediately began to suck down.

As they watched the documentary together, Ben reclined back and stretched his arm behind Zoe. Zoe, a bit nervous at first, slowly laid back into his arm.

“It’s amazing what these bands have to go through just to get off the ground, am I right?” Ben commented.

“Yeah.” Zoe replied.

The two sat quietly together for a while longer.

“I’m loving this documentary. I don’t think we’ve seen a movie together since we all saw The Princess Rainbow Star Movie together in high school. I miss those days.” Zoe remarked.

“Yeah, back when we were young and before the adult world started kicking our diapered butts.” Ben replied.

“Yeah, I can relate. I guess that’s why we need each other more now than ever. Remember that time Timmy dared you to eat playdough and you spat it up on Jenny?” Zoe laughed.

“Yeah, I’d rather not. I do remember that time we went roller skating together and I got a boo-boo on my knee and you lent me one of your princess Band-Aids. The other guys teased me, but I didn’t mind. I was just glad someone made me feel better.” Ben replied.

Ben slowly relaxed his arm over Zoe’s shoulder as she leaned her head in against his shoulder. Ben put his hand on her leg, Zoe put her hand on his. Ben leaned his head against hers and Zoe nuzzled his cheek with her nose. Ben turned to her and poked her nose with his finger, making her giggle. Zoe, in turn, poked Ben’s stomach and made him laugh, prompting him to squeeze Zoe’s thigh and made her laugh even harder.

“You don’t want to start a tickle fight with me young lady. I never lose.” Ben said as he kept tickling Zoe’s stomach.

Zoe fell back onto the couch, giggling hysterically as Ben crawled on top of her, tickling her relentlessly. By the time she’d settle down, she stared into Ben’s eyes as she realized he was laying on top of her. She felt her pulse racing, her palms sweating, her legs quivering, breath erratic. Just then, she had a sudden panic attack.

“Uh - hold on Ben. Uh, I’m not certain I’m ready for this.” Zoe said as she got out from under Ben and off the couch.

“What are you talking about?” Ben asked, utterly confused and concerned.

“Uh, I just don’t think we should go too far tonight. You know?” Zoe said, a bit flustered.

“Oh, well I wouldn’t think of - -” Ben began to say.

“It’s not you. It’s - It’s - It’s just that, I think that I should get tested first. You know? For cooties.” Zoe said.

“Cooties? Well, I guess you can never be too careful. Do you think you’ve got it? I mean, are you planning on getting tested for it?” Ben asked.

“Yeah - in fact I’m getting tested this week. You know, just to be safe.” Zoe said with an awkward grin.

“Okay. That’s good. Would you like to finish watching the movie with me?” Ben asked.

“Yeah, of course. Let me just go change my diaper real quick and I’ll be right back.” Zoe said.

“Oh, of course. The changing room is in the hall to the right.” Ben replied.

“Thank you.” Zoe said as she retreated into the changing room.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Apr 4, 2022 at 1:53 AM
Content: Part 11

That Wednesday at work, Zoe sat in the dining hall where she caught up with Meg over a plate of yogurt, peas and cheese with crackers.

“So, did you hear? Timmy said he’ll likely know by Monday who he wants to be the new sales manager. Isn’t that exciting!?” Meg practically squealed.

“Yes.” Zoe replied in a dejected sort of tone.

“Word around the grape juice vine is that it’s coming down to you and me. Oh girl, as long as one of us gets it I’m going to be so happy.” Meg continued.

“Yeah.” Zoe replied in the same ho-hum fashion.

“Oh, speaking of which - would you mind finishing my call sheet for me? I’m almost done with it, I promise. It’s just that Nicky and I got dinner reservations for McDaniel’s Restaurant and Playground tonight. It took us so long to get these reservations and Nicky’s got the night off tonight and - “ Meg rattled on.

“I’ll do it.” Zoe sighed.

“Thank you Zoe. You’re a baby doll.” Meg said.

“I just have to be done before six because I’ve got a check up at the doctor’s office then. And after that I’ve got another meeting with Kim at her place.” Zoe said.

“Doctor’s office!? Why, are you sick?” Meg asked.

“No, it’s just - I’m getting tested for cooties.” Zoe said quietly.

“Cooties!? Why, do you think you got it from someone?” Meg asked, barely keeping her voice down.

“No, no. It’s just - I told Ben I would get tested just so that I can be certain I’m safe. A lot of people get cooties you know from ordinary things and just because I and a lot of people get tested that doesn’t mean - “ Zoe rambled on.

“I know - I know. It’s great that you’re being safe. You’re not planning on anything, are you?” Meg asked with a sly smile.

“Nothing - nothing. Just, being safe.” Zoe replied as she sulked over her plate of peas.

Later at the doctor’s office, Zoe sat on the cold table in a short gown and her diaper, the chilly air and her nerves causing her legs to quiver. A busty nurse in a short skirt and long bouncy red hair suddenly stepped in.

“Hey, you doing alright today?” The nurse asked as she looked over her clipboard.

“I guess so.” Zoe replied.

“That’s great - that’s great. I just got a few questions for you. Have you ever sniffed markers, chewed glue or clay, ate crayon, been addicted to vitamins, smoked dandelions or any other substance or are on any sort of prescription medicine?” The nurse asked.

“No.” Zoe replied.

“Do you have any allergies?” The nurse continued.

“No.” Zoe repeated.

“Excellent. I’ll go get the doctor and he’ll be right with you to begin testing. But first we need a pee-pee sample. Have you ever gone on a potty before?” The nurse asked.

“A potty? That thing old people use when they can’t change themselves. Uh, yeah. Sure.” Zoe replied.

“Great. Just change out of your diaper and I’ll go fetch the potty seat for you.” The nurse said as she hung up the clipboard.

Zoe nervously lifted up her gown and began to undo the tabs off her diaper.

“Ooh - animal print.” The nurse remarked. “I used to wear that exact same kind way back when I was a cheerleader in high school. Those were the days. So cute.”

Zoe rolled her eyes in annoyance. Just then, as the nurse reached up to open one of the cabins, Zoe caught a peek up her short skirt and saw her diaper, white with an elegant flower design lightly printed on them. Zoe groaned quietly to herself as she stepped out of her crisp clean diaper and as the nurse stepped out of the room, coming back shortly after with a potty seat.

The nurse sat the potty seat on the floor as Zoe was hesitant to sit.

“Just sit your little self right here. Go on - don’t be frightened.” The nurse said as she led Zoe on over to the potty seat.

“Go - in there?” Zoe replied anxiously as the nurse moved her along.

“That’s right, in there.” The nurse said as she sat Zoe down on it, supporting her up by the waist

Zoe, becoming so shaken, quickly began to lose her balance.

“Just go on. It’s okay. It’s just like going in a diaper. It’s okay, I got you. You won’t fall.” The nurse said.

Zoe clamped up, not being able to go in the slightest as she became ever more anxious until -

Whoop!

She slipped off the potty seat and fell onto the floor.

“My goodness! Are you okay sweetie?” The nurse asked.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Apr 18, 2022 at 1:43 AM
Content: Part 12

Following her disaster of a check-up, Zoe hopped on the city bus and rode it all the way down to Kim’s place to further discuss their business deal.

“Oh.” Kim replied in a patronizing tone as she greeted Zoe at the door. “I was starting to think you weren’t going to show.”

“Sorry, I had a doctor check-up.” Zoe said.

“Well - whatever. Just come in.” Kim said as she let Zoe in.

Zoe took a seat in the comfy chair only for Kim to return with a fruit drink in her hand.

“Um - can I please sit in my chair?” She asked in a rather snarky tone.

“Oh - sure. It’s your apartment.” Zoe replied, trying to conceal her disdain, as she moved over to the sofa.

“So - I showed your picture to my other friends and. . .” Kim began.

“And?” Zoe repeated tepidly.

“ - And they liked it. They thought it was really cool.” Kim sighed.

“They did! I mean, they did?” Zoe said, trying again to conceal her glee.

“Yes, yes. Apparently they thought it looked cute and adorable. So I’m prepared to accept it as the official design of my store.” Kim continued, taking another sip of her drink.

‘Great! That’s wonderful! Oh, I’m so excited that they loved it!” Zoe continued to gush.

“But I would like to work on making some tiny revisions with you - if you don’t mind. That way it can be more to both our likings. Would you like a drink by any chance? I feel I work best when I’ve had a little pick-me-up.” Kim said.

“Uh - no thanks. I’m not a fan of fruit juice. It gives me a tummy ache.” Zoe replied.

“Your loss.” Kim said as she downed the last swig of her juice and walked off into the kitchen.

Later on, after a few drinks from Kim and many, many scrapped drawings, Zoe finally began to hit her creative stride and Kim finally began to loosen up a little.

“Ugh - and then this one time these guys put gum in my hair and I had to get it cut, like - what drooling little stinkers. Am I right?” Kim said.

“Right. People can be real meanies at times.” Zoe replied, finishing up her coloring with a crayon. “How’s this!?” She said holding up her drawing.

“That looks - great! I love it.” Kim said as she got up and scooted next to Zoe on the sofa, spilling a bit of her drink when she plopped down.

“You - you really like it?” Zoe asked.

“Yes. It’s adorable. I like the rainbow colors, the sparkles. I love it! You know, I do have to say, you really are talented.” Kim said, gushing over Zoe’s own drawing.

“That, that - thank you. Thank you so much! That means so much to me. I mean, I didn’t know what you’d think of it.” Zoe blushed.

“I love it. It’s perfect. I never imagined it would be this good. I was always lousy at drawing, but you - you are a wish come true. Do you think you can do more graphic design work for me?” Kim asked.

“Sure. Yeah, of course!” Zoe said, bouncing up and down in her seat.

“Excellent! I can draw up a new contract right away. If the rest of your work is this good it’ll be worth every plastic cent. I may even recommend you to some of my friends. I’m sure they’ll enjoy your work.” Kim said.

“Really? That’s great! You know I never really had much faith in my work. I was always just a hobby of mine, really. I never actually thought I could. . .” Zoe said.

“Oh, it’s past my bedtime. I’ve got to get up early in the morning.” Kim said, checking her wrist watch.

“Oh, it’s past mine too. And there’s no bus that runs this. . .” Zoe said.

“What do you mean - bus? Didn’t you drive?” Kim asked.

“Uh - no. My car is - is. . .” Zoe stuttered.

Kim just looked at her a bit confused.

“Imaginary. I don’t have a car. I could never afford one.” Zoe said as she sunk in her seat.

“Ha ha ha! That’s okay. I’ll give you a lift - if I can find my keys. You just clean up and I’ll be right back.” Kim said as she drank down the last of her juice while stumbling to get up off the sofa.

“Are you sure you’re okay to drive?” Zoe asked.

“Yeah, of course. I’ve driven with much heavier drinks than grape juice.” Kim replied.

After a long, turbulent ride across town, Zoe eventually made it home in one piece.

“So this is where you live?” Kim asked as she sloppily pulled up to the curb outside the apartment building. “It’s - nice.”

“Yes, well - thank you for the ride Kim. It’s been - fun.” Zoe said as she opened the door to the passenger seat.

“I’ll be in touch. Oh, and I’ll even get a new box of crayons for you to color with. I can get them at a discount at my store. And I’ll come up with that new contract right away. Okay?” Kim said.

“That will be great. Thank you so much for the opportunity and the ride home. I mean it. I really liked working with you Kim.” Zoe said.

“I liked working with you too Zoe.” Kim said, brushing her long messy bangs out of her face.

Just then, without warning, Kim suddenly leaned over and kissed Zoe right on the lips. Zoe, struck dumbfounded by the little peck, sat frozen in her seat for some time before gradually regaining the strength in her legs to step out of the car.

“Nighty night Zoe.” Kim said.

Zoe, unable to bring the words to her lips, simply smiled and waved as she closed the door and watched as Kim clumsily drove off.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: May 16, 2022 at 4:10 AM
Content: Part 13

The following day, Zoe lied awake in her crib early in the morning with her alarm clock still yet to go off. She just laid there, staring up at her mobile that grew ever clearer as the light from the early sunrise gradually trickled in through the window curtains. She couldn’t sleep. She just kept thinking of that kiss Kim gave her.

Well, it wasn’t so much a kiss as much as it was a friendly peck. But it was on the lips. But it couldn’t have meant that much. Kim hardly talks to her. Then again, Zoe had never been kissed before as an adult, so what would she know.

She felt strange; awkward yet fascinated. It did get her thinking though. She wondered if Ben had gotten over her odd behavior that night she was at his apartment. She acted so dumb and she couldn’t figure out why. She was almost afraid to text Ben and see what he’s up to, but after last night with Kim, she felt emboldened to just get up and talk to him for some reason.

With a burst of daringness, Zoe picked up her phone through the bars of her crib and immediately shot a text to Ben.

“Hey Ben, just wanted to see if u were up to anything this weekend.”

She let out a sigh as she continued to lay awake in bed till her alarm went off and she had to get up and start the day.

While eating a breakfast of oatmeal and milk, Zoe got a buzz on her phone. It was Kim.

“Hey, sorry if I was a little tipsy last night. Would u like to meet up again? Maybe next week?”

Zoe thought about it for a long second.

“Sure. Anytime next week after work is fine with me.” Zoe replied.

“OK. Great. We can meet at my place again if you like. If not, we can meet up at a donut shop or whatever.” Kim responded.

“Your place is fine.” Zoe replied.

Zoe’s thumbs were just a bit sweaty as she texted back, or maybe just a little greasy from the oatmeal. She immediately got another text she assumed was from Kim.

“Hey! I’m not doing much this weekend. We can hang out again if you want.” The text said.

Wait - what! Kim wants to just hang out this weekend. ‘I mean, I’m fine with that. She is a friend of a friend.’ Zoe thought to herself. It wasn’t until she looked at the text again that she realized it wasn’t from Kim - it was Ben replying back to her. Her heart bounced in her chest like it were in an inflatable castle.

“Sure - any place u want.” Zoe replied.

“How about the mall?” Ben responded.

“Sure - I’ll be there.” Zoe replied.

Zoe was so excited she just threw her bowl of oatmeal up in the air and splattered it all over the ceiling.

“Oh poop.” Zoe said as she calmed down and looked at the mess she just made.

After finishing out yet another boring week of work, Zoe met up with Ben at the mall where the two splurged on candy, some new toys, a few plastic earrings for Zoe, courtesy of Ben, and some new onesies, all topped off with a date at the movie theater.

After the movie, the two strolled on over to the indoor play park where they sat on top the large plastic tortoise eating licorice candy with their bags of goods next to them.

“So you helped build this mall?” Zoe asked.

“Part of it. I was still just an assistant when I worked on this job. Now I’m a co-designer. If I keep it up another seven years I may be able to make project manager.” Ben replied.

“Cool. I’m up for a promotion too. Well - it isn’t official yet, but I’m certain I can make manager at my job too. My supervisor asked to see me and Meg Monday to discuss the position.” Zoe said with gitty.

“That’s great. It’s nice to see all that hard work actually pay off in life.” Ben replied.

“Yeah. Of course Meg’s up for the position too but - I’m not sure she’ll make it. I mean, I love Meg but she can be a bit of a slack off at times. Out of all the years we’ve worked together I still have to help her with her work. Of course, she is the only reason I got a job in candy sales to begin with. I just hope she won’t be too hurt if she doesn’t get the position.” Zoe said sorrowfully.

“I’m sure she’ll be fine. You two are great friends. Meg will be happy to have you as a boss. You could let her off the hook a little.” Ben said.

“Nope. If I become manager I’m gonna kick her padded butt into shape.” Zoe said.

“Well if you can - say, want to go down on the slide together while it’s open?” Ben said, pointing to the slide in the shape of a giraffe.

“But what about all our toys?” Zoe asked.

“We can keep an eye on them. The slide’s just right over there. Come on, let’s go!” Ben said as he took Zoe by the hand and ran her over to the slide.

Zoe went up the steps first with Ben close behind her. She was fine and dandy until she got up to the top where the giraffe’s neck slid down to the ground. The slide was only about ten feet high, yet a sense of mild acrophobia overcame her.

“Are you okay Zoe?” Ben asked, waiting behind her.

“Y-y-yeah. I’m alright.” Zoe said nervously.

“It’s okay Zoe. Here, I’ll help down.” Ben said and he came up behind Zoe and wrapped his arms around her waist. “You ready?”

“Uh-uh-sure.” Zoe said, calming down just a bit.

“Okay - here we go.” Ben said as he pushed them off and the two slid down together.

“Wow Ben - that was fun.” Zoe said with a big smile.

“Yeah it was.” Ben replied.

“Aww, look at those two. Aren’t they so cute together?” Zoe overheard several other girls saying over by the hopscotch squares.

“I bet she’s just one of those girls who’s just looking for a sugar daddy.” Another girl replied.

“Just look at how she tries to look like a teenager.” Another girl said.

“Say, you want to go down to the restaurant and get some dessert while it’s still open?” Ben asked.

“Uh-uh. You know what I’d rather do? Play tag. You’re it!” Zoe said as she shoved Ben to the ground and ran off giggling.

When she turned around to look back, she saw Ben still sitting on the ground rubbing his elbow.

“Ben?” Zoe said as she slowly walked back over to him.

“You gave me a boo-boo.” Ben said with a whimper to his tone.

“Oh, I - I’m sorry. Do-do you still want to go to the restaurant?” Zoe asked.

“No. Now I need to go to the changing room and get a bandage. I should probably be leaving anyway. I’ve got some designs to refine.” Ben said as he got up.

“Oh - okay.” Zoe said, sorrowfully.

Ben walked off and got his things.

“Will I see you later?” Zoe cried out.

“Yeah, maybe next weekend Zoe.” Ben said as he walked off.

“Bye Ben.” Zoe called out.

When she turned she saw the other girls by the hopscotch looking at her with judgmental glares.

“What a bad girl.” One girl said.

“See, what did I tell you?” Another girl remarked as they turned their backs to her and whispered among themselves.

Zoe, despondent, slowly walked away, got her stuff, and left to go catch the late bus home.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Jun 13, 2022 at 3:58 AM
Content: Part 14

That Monday morning, sometime before she was set to leave for work, Zoe sat up in her crib, hair messy and diaper sopping wet and in need of changing, as she sent yet another text to Ben asking how he was. She’d been texting him all Sunday but had yet to receive a reply back. She asked if he was okay, if his boo-boo was better, if he was free to talk; but got not a single answer in return. By now she couldn’t sleep, couldn’t eat, couldn’t even get out of bed. She was too tired and worried to do anything, yet her day was still just getting started and she was due for work.

After plugging her phone in to charge, the ringtone set as high as it could go just so she wouldn’t miss a single notification, Zoe got out of bed, took a quick bath, changed into a clean diaper, didn’t bother to do her hair preferring instead to just put some clips in it, got dressed, had a cold bottle of milk and left off for work, forgetting to pack and clean diaper in her diaper bag.

Sitting in the bouncy seat at her desk, Zoe, with her eyes off her computer, kept her attention on her phone which still had yet to receive a reply.

“Hey Zoe!” Meg said, sneaking up behind Zoe.

“Hey Meg. Say, you don’t by any chance have a clean dia - -” Zoe began to ask.

“Today’s the day we find out who gets the promotion. You excited!?” Meg said. Interrupting her.

“Oh, yeah. Of course.” Zoe said with unconvincing zeal.

“Yes! And who said hard work never pays off? Not us. Not anymore.” Meg said.

“Look Meg - I want you to know that no matter who gets the promotion, we’re still good frie - -” Zoe said before being interrupted again.

“Meg - Zoe, Timmy would like to see you two.” The secretary said as she walked on by.

“Oh this is it! Come on Zoe, let’s go.” Meg said, pulling Zoe out of her bouncy seat and over toward Timmy’s office.

Sitting in the small plastic chairs in front of the desk, Meg and Zoe waited eagerly for Timmy to walk in.

“Good morning young ladies. How are we doing today?” Timmy said as he entered the room with a stack of folders in his hand.

“Awesome possum Timmy - I mean, Mr. Peterson.” Meg replied.

“Great.” Timmy said as he closed the door behind him and took a seat at his desk. “Now I’m sure you’re both aware we’re here to discuss the managerial position and I have to say I’ve been watching you both very closely these past few weeks and I’m quite impressed with what I’ve seen.”

“Thanks!” Meg said gleefully.

“Yeah, thanks.” Zoe replied with a bit more pep in her tone.

“Now, this has been a very hard decision I must say.” Timmy went on. “Meg, you’re perky, determined and persistent. A real go-getter. Zoe, you’re hard working, dedicated and efficient. A truly reliable asset.”

“Why thank you Mr. Peterson.” Meg replied.

“Yeah, thanks.” Zoe said with genuine excitement.

“Now I’ve given this a lot of thought. Zoe, you’re simply amazing.” Timmy said.

“Yes.” Zoe replied, unable to contain her enthusiasm.

“But I have decided that Meg would be the best fit as the new manager of this sales division.” Timmy said.

Zoe’s giddy smile quickly vanished.

“Ah yes! Thank you Timmy! Thank you so much!” Meg shouted as she bounced uncontrollably in her chair.

“You’re welcome. I just want to say - - “ Timmy began to say.

“Meg!? But - but how?” Zoe said, in utter shock.

“Well Zoe - Meg is a real picker-upper. A team leader. The kind of person I’m looking for.” Timmy replied.

“But - but I was the one who had to help her finish all her work.” Zoe said.

“Zoe?” Meg said in confusion.

“Well I’m well aware of that Zoe. But Meg has made significant improvement these past few weeks. Her work turnout is fantastic and she now has the best sales record out of the entire division and much of that she achieved herself. You’re a great sales worker Zoe, and though I’ve found you’ve been a bit distracted lately and slipping just a tad bit, I’d like to keep around as a saleswoman. But I believe Meg to simply be better management material.” Timmy replied.

“But - but.” Zoe stuttered.

“Now Zoe, there’s no sense in crying about it like a baby.” Timmy said.

Zoe, in a range of emotions from sad to angry to devastated, suddenly felt a rush of tears fill her eyes as her face winced up and she began to cry, running straight out of the room.

“Zoe!” Meg called out after her.

Zoe continued to run down past all the sales desks and the changing room, down the stairs and out the building where she’d come to sit behind a dumpster around the back and proceed to ball her eyes out uncontrollably for sometime.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Jun 30, 2022 at 4:35 AM
Content: Part 15

That night, alone in her flat with all but the night light off, Zoe sat on the floor of her bedroom just beside the crib, a pacifier in her mouth, a phone in one hand and a wadded-up tissue in the other to wipe the occasional tear from her face as she scrolled through Ben’s FaceColoringBook page. There hadn’t been any updates on his profile since last week, a post of him and some girl at the office.

Just then, she got a text. It was from Meg, her fifth text to her today, none of which Zoe felt like replying to. Meanwhile all the texts she’d sent to Ben had been answered yet either. By now it was too much, the anxiety slowly eating away at her insides. After a hard day at work, she felt she couldn’t go on this way.

With her thumbs shaking, Zoe found Ben in her contacts and gave him a call. She took the pacifier out of her mouth as she listened to the ringing. First one, then two, then three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine and then. . .

“Hey Zoe, what’s happening?” She could hear Ben answer.

The immense weight that Zoe had in her chest suddenly lightened up a bit.

“Oh hey Ben - I uh, was just wondering how you were doing. Is everything fine?” Zoe asked.

“Oh yeah, I’m fine. Say - how did the promotion at your work go?” Ben asked.

“Oh uh - I - I didn’t get it.” Zoe replied bitterly.

“Oh, sorry to hear that.” Ben replied.

“Say, are you doing anything again this weekend? I was hoping - -” Zoe continued.

“Oh, I’m sorry Zoe. Did you hear? I’m going out of state this weekend for a business meeting. Our company’s proposing a new project on the West Coast. I’m leaving this Friday on a plane.” Ben said.

“What!? You’re - you’re leaving this Friday you say? Well, how about next weekend?” Zoe asked.

“I don’t know Zoe. If our company wins the contract they’ll be working out of state for a while. I don’t know how long, but I’ll be away for quite some time at least.” Ben replied.

“Oh - okay. Well, good luck to you.” Zoe said woefully.

“Thank you. And I hope all goes well for you too.” Ben replied.

“Yeah, thanks.” Zoe replied, the weight suddenly returning to her chest, sinking her heart into her tummy.

. .

That Thursday, after a long boring week at work, calling back grumpy customers and reviewing data sheets all while avoiding Meg by any means necessary, Zoe took the bus across town where she met up with Kim at her flat to continue working on her business designs. Zoe sat on the couch, lazily drawing in circles with a crayon while Kim in her cozy chair reviewed several of her designs while drinking a sippy cup of grape juice.

“I do like this design here - the one with the store name in the rainbow cloud.” Kim said, taking a sip from her cup.

“Yeah.” Zoe replied listlessly.

“What’s the matter with you Zoe? You seem tired. Have you been getting enough sleep?” Kim said.

“Yeah - I’m just a little bummed is all.” Zoe replied.

“What is it? You can tell me.” Kim said.

“I don’t think you’d want to hear it.” Zoe replied.

“Don’t be a silly goose.” Kim said as she got up and plopped down on the couch right beside Zoe. “Go on, tell me. I’m all ears.”

“Well - -” Zoe began.

“Is it about that promotion at your work?” Kim asked.

“No - how did you find out about that?” Zoe asked.

“Meg told me. She said you’ve been ignoring her.” Kim said.

“Oh - well no, it’s not that. It’s just a boy I know.” Zoe replied.

“Ugh, boys. Real slobs, am I right. Always messy, stinky, gross and always wanting to play rough. Such a nuisance. But go on.” Kim said.

“Oh well, there’s this boy. I kind of like playing with him. He’s really truly nice and clean and funny and cute. But I don’t know if he’s really all that interested in me. And why would he be? I’m awkward, broke, clumsy and insecure.” Zoe lamented.

“Oh don’t be silly. You’re smart, cheerful, creative. Any guy that wouldn’t want to play with you is a complete drool if you know what I mean. You drink?” Kim asked, pointing to her cup of grape juice.

“Uh - no. I never really drank before.” Zoe replied.

“You’re joking! Really. Oh come now, a little juice now and again can pick anyone up. Let me just go see what’s in the fridge. I’ve got orange, grape and I believe some apple left.” Kim said.

“Oh well - -” Zoe started to say all too late as Kim was already off the couch and on her way toward the kitchen.

Returning just a minute later, Kim brought Zoe a sippy cup full of orange juice.

“Well, go on. Try it. It’s a good brand.” Kim said, sitting back down next to Zoe.

“Well - -” Zoe began to say as she took a moment to look at the juice as it swirled around in the clear plastic cup. After a moment of pause, Zoe took a deep breath and took a sip.

Half an hour later, Zoe was on the couch, laughing and giggling hysterically along with Kim as the two sat back drinking cup after cup of fruit juice while painting and putting stickers along one another’s skin.

“And then he threw up playdough all in this girl's new shoes and at the end of night she ended up stepping in them and just flipped.” Zoe laughed.

“Ugh, I can’t stand parties. Just a bunch of loud people making a mess.” Kim said, rolling her eyes.

“Yeah. I’m not fond of them either. Everyone else is having fun while you just sit back awkwardly watching everyone’s diaper bags. But it’s comforting just hanging with a few friends every now and again.” Zoe replied.

“Yes - there, how do you like your new unicorn tattoo?” Kim asked, pointing to the one she just drew on Zoe’s arm.

“It’s beautiful. I love it.” Zoe replied, taking the last sip of juice. “Oh I’m all out of juice.”

“Oh don’t worry. Here, let me pour you some more.” Kim said as she took Zoe’s cup and clumsily tried to refill it with the jug of juice she had on hand.

Trying carefully to steady her hand while attempting to pour the juice in Zoe’s cup, Kim inadvertently spilled some of the juice all over her overall shorts.

“Oh poop!” Kim griped. “Hold on, let me go change.”

Kim got up and walked out the room for a moment, leaving Zoe to refill her cup herself. By the time she’d gotten the lid back on the cup, Kim returned in nothing but a long boy’s dress shirt where she’d reclaim her position beside Zoe on the couch.

“So Zoe - feeling better?” Kim asked.

“Yeah I guess. I’m a bit tipsy I believe - but fine. It’s just, I’ve never had any luck with boys before. We’re just different. I mean, I like boys. They’re cute and charming. But I just never had the time or experience to seriously date anyone. In fact, I could never find anyone who’d want to date me. I’m an average nobody with little to offer other than to be a second income, which isn’t much to begin with. Maybe I should get a puppy or a hamster to take care of. At least I’ll have company.” Zoe said.

“Oh that’s no way to think. You’ve just gotta get out there and be assertive. Don’t be afraid to be yourself. The worst thing you can do is hide your true feelings and pretend you’re not who you really are. People like a person they can understand and relate to. That’s the true foundation of a lasting relationship.” Kim replied.

“Yeah, I guess. But I just don’t have the time to get out and see anyone. I’m just plain old Zoe. A boring shut-in whose greatest accomplishment has been figuring out how to make a diaper last a whole workday.” Zoe lamented.

“Oh hush up. I’ve spent much of my life cooped up in my apartment, stressing about work while everyone else is out living the party life like a bunch of idiots.” Kim said as she got up and closed the blinds to her windows.

“Do you think I’m fully satisfied with how my life’s been so far? No. I’ve got a good business and plenty of fancy clothes, but I know what it’s like to be alone in a crowd where no one wants to talk to you because you’re the crabby snob that doesn’t want to play their kind of games and is always bossing everyone around, telling them how to really play house. Boys are intimidated by me and girls just think I’m a witch. But do you see me giving a fuss over what they say? No. Because I’m happy with who I am.” Kim continued as she dimmed the lights to her flat.

“Well I guess everyone has it hard in their own way I guess.” Zoe replied.

“Exactly. And you and I know that we don’t need some stinking Boy Toy to make us happy. Gal Pals can be just as fun to play with.” Kim said as she stepped up to Zoe and tenderly placed her finger on the tip of Zoe’s nose, gently running it down along her lips and to her chin as the two looked each other in the eye for a moment.

Just then, with a little hesitation, Kim leaned down and kissed Zoe on the lips, just for a second before moving in for a second longer kiss.

Zoe could feel her chest beating, her palms slickening with sweat, temperature raising to the roof as Kim kept her wet lips pressed against hers. She backed off a moment, allowing Zoe to catch her breath as she slipped her shirt off over her head and tossed it over on the chair, standing in nothing but a plain white diaper before her.

“What are you - -” Zoe began to say just as Kim shushed her, putting her finger on her lips and kept her from speaking.

Zoe could feel her knees knocking together and her hand unconsciously clench the seat of the couch as Kim took her sippy cup out of her hand, set it on the table, and sat herself down in Zoe’s lap, front facing her with her bare legs pressed against both sides of her hips. Kim wrapped her arms around Zoe’s head as she leaned in again and kissed her again, sucking her lips in towards her and slipping her tongue into her mouth. Zoe just sat there a moment and trembled in her arms, not embracing her but not pushing back either.

Eventually, her hands still shaking, Zoe placed her hands around Kim’s waist as she continued kissing her. Backing off once again to catch her breath, Kim looked at Zoe with a large, giddy smile upon her face as she grabbed Zoe by her shoulders and plopped her down on the couch on her back as she sat herself on top of her. Zoe, feeling her legs go limp, just laid back with her hands still on Kim’s waist as Kim laid on top of her and began kissing Zoe around the neck.

Zoe could feel Kim’s heart racing against her, her hot breath heating her neck. As Kim continued to kiss Zoe about the neck and shoulders, she felt her hand up Zoe’s shirt, rubbing it tenderly about her stomach, making her giggle just slightly between heavy breaths. Zoe likewise, awkwardly tried to rub her hand around Kim’s bare stomach as well. From Zoe’s stomach, Kim would feel her way down to Zoe’s thighs where she lifted up her skirt and gently squished her diaper, crinkling it softly and making her legs tense up again as Kim continued to kiss Zoe about the cheeks and chin before finally locking lips with her once more.

Zoe wrapped her arms around Kim and held her head against hers as Kim continued to press and squeeze her hand along Zoe’s fresh diaper, harder and harder until.

“Ben!” Zoe said as she abruptly sat up and bonked her head against Kim’s nose.

“Ow!” Kim said as she cupped her hand over her throbbing nose.

“Oh, sorry. I - I have to leave.” Zoe said out of breath, as she slid out from under Kim and quickly got off the couch, fumbling to fix her shirt and skirt in the process.

“Wait - what’s the matter? Did I do something wrong? No, don’t leave. Please tell me.” Kim said in a panic as she hastily tried to throw on her shirt and catch up with Zoe.

“I’m sorry. It’s not you really. It’s just - there’s something I have to do.” Zoe replied, clumsily tossing her drawing materials in her diaper back and heading toward the door.

“Wait - can I still see you again!?” Kim asked, holding on to Zoe’s arm as she opened the door.

“Yes - I mean, I guess so. I don’t know when, but I just have to go. Bye Kim.” Zoe said as she hurried out the door and ran down the hall.

“Zoe, wait - do you at least need a ride home!?” Kim called out after her as she was well down the hall.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Jul 25, 2022 at 4:19 AM
Content: Part 16

The following day, Zoe spent much of the work hour entering data on her log sheets while ignoring the business phone the best she could. Sometime around lunch, she could tell Meg was close behind her.

“Hey Meg - congrats on the promotion.” She overheard another coworker say.

“Yeah - thank you.” Meg replied.

Zoe didn’t bother to look back at her, instead preferring to ignore her as if she was far too busy to speak to her. A little while later out of the corner of her eye, she saw Meg go about her way as Zoe just continued to mindlessly plug in numbers and values.

Later, after she’d gotten off work and was well on her way home to her apartment, Zoe sat on the bus behind a couple of naughty brats who were shooting spit wads across the bus while she stared blankly down at her phone, scrolling through Bens profile.

“Excited to travel and see a new city!” He wrote in a post with a pic of him and several of his coworkers huddled around in the office room. Beside him was the girl Zoe had seen him with at the nightclub. She didn’t know that little brat worked with him.

She’d wanted to leave a reply or send him a text before he left - but she couldn’t think of what to say. It was hard to put her feelings in just a single reply. Perhaps it was best she didn’t say anything at all and let him go. But the thought of just letting him go made her want to spit up.

“Hey - who did your hair? A groundskeeper with a weed-wacker.” The boy in his twenties said in the seat in front of her.

“Oh go wipe your nose you snotty little troll.” Zoe replied.

“Hey, my mommy said I’m cute and sweet.” The boy replied.

“Then your mommy’s a big dummy.” Zoe said.

The boy quivered his lip and slid back in his seat as he pouted.

At home in her apartment, Zoe took a long bubble bath where she tried furiously to scrub away the paint Kim put on her arms which had only slightly faded by then. She spent the rest of the time just relaxing in the tub as she thought long and hard about what it was she wanted to do. She sat and she soaked, sighed and blew the bubbles off her hands while playing with her rubber froggy bath toy, all in deep silence.

Eventually she tossed the toy out of the tub and let out a sigh as she slouched over the side of the tub. She didn’t know what to do. She didn’t know what it even was she was wanting to do something for. She was just exhausted, worn-out and a bit grumpy as if there were a large hole in the middle of her tubby and she didn’t know how to fill it. Continuing to soak in the tub, she gently splashed water over herself for a moment before slowly letting her head sink below the surface.

There she would hold her breath, first for a second, then two, then five, then ten. She just kept holding her breath under the water, her face slowly changing color as she refused to get up. She laid there, longer and longer, her chest feeling as if it were about to cave in under the pressure. She held her breath, longer and longer still, her head getting dizzy, mind racing fast until she let out a scream that resonated under the water.

She then popped out of the water, got out of the tub and ran into her room sopping wet.

At the airport terminal, Ben sat alone in the waiting section along with all his luggage. Just then, his flight was called to begin boarding. He got up out his seat, put on his dinosaur backpack and began dragging his rolling suitcase behind him as he walked on over to the dock with the rest of the passengers. After making his way through the line, he showed the airport check-in girl his ticket and, once given the go, began to file on into the jet bridge.

Just then, a paper airplane flew gently across the air and hit him in the back of the head. Feeling his head with his hand and looking around the crowd for a second, Ben bent down and picked up the paper airplane that had just hit him. Unfolding it, he saw a drawing of two stick figures, a guy and a girl in a field of flowers with a message written in crayon that read;

“Can’t you say bye-bye to a friend?”

Looking around again while holding up the line, Ben caught sight of Zoe, standing far off into the crowd with her hair still wet and in a blue dress that clung to her body. Ben got out of line and headed on over to her.

“Zoe, hey. What do you want? I’ve got a plane to catch. And what’s that all over your arms?” He said as he ran up to her.

“Oh, just paint. Ben I - I wanted to say bye-bye. And that I’ll be missing you while you’re gone.” Zoe muttered.

“Oh - well you didn’t have to come all the way here to say bye-bye. Plus you’re soaking wet.” Ben replied.

“I know. But I just had to see you face to face. We never got to spend a lot of time with each other since we both left high school. And I just want to see more of you in person.” Zoe said.

“Oh. Well you know, going to different colleges and all and with working it’s been really hard for the both of us. I wish we had more time together too.” Ben said bashfully.

“Right - uh, Ben? I never told you this before. I never thought of ever telling you this before but - I really like you. I always have ever since we first met in counting class. I thought you were cute and kind of funny and charming. And I wanted to say something, but I thought boys were kind of icky and gross at the time. But as we grew up, I just found myself liking you more and more. And now, I don’t want to imagine my life without you.” Zoe said.

“Oh. Wow. I - I don’t know what to say. I mean I like you too Zoe. You were always a nice friend and I like hanging out with you too. If only we were young again and had more time.” Ben replied.

“Right - Ben, I really want to kiss you right now.” Zoe said.

“Right now? Here?” Ben replied, baffled.

“Yeah - like this.” Zoe said as she leaned forward, threw her arms around Ben’s head and planted a long kiss right on his lips, drawing a few oohs, awws and eughs from the crowd standing around.

“Wow.” Ben said as soon as she gave him a chance to catch his breath. “I liked that.”

“I liked that too.” Zoe replied.

“You know Zoe, I don’t know what lies ahead in my future. I don’t know if I’m leaving or staying or if I can really promise to see you as often as you might like me to.” Ben said.

“I was afraid of that. It’s just that you’ve been a big part of my life so far and I don’t want to lose you. You’re my friend Ben.” Zoe said.

“I know. But right now, I’ve got to leave and I don’t know how well we can be together with the direction my life is going. I’ve got a lot of awesome opportunities out there and I’d like to take them. Plus I’ve got a lot of other friends and relatives who are counting on me also.” Ben said.

“I understand.” Zoe said, slowly letting her arms fall from Ben’s shoulders.

“But I’ll come someday, I promise. And I want to keep seeing you. You’re a great friend Zoe and won’t ever forget you.” Ben said, lifting her chin up with his hand so they can see eye to eye.

“Thank you.” Zoe said with a smile. “See you later alligator.”

“In a while crocodile.” Ben replied, as he shot her a smile and turned to try and make his plane.

“Oh wait Ben!” Zoe shouted running after him.

“Zoe, I’m going to be tardy.” Ben said.

“Do you have a diaper I can borrow? I forgot to put one on when I hopped out of the tub and I’m sort of going commando right now.” Zoe said, blushing awkwardly.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Aug 7, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Content: Part 17

That Monday at work, Zoe found Meg’s office desk empty of all her toys and personal office supply. She didn’t see her all day, not in the sales room, the kitchen or the changing room. It wasn’t until she’d clocked off for the day that she decided to wait out by the front desk that she finally saw Meg coming out the elevator, texting on her phone as she walked.

“Meg!” Zoe said as she ran off after her.

Meg didn’t respond.

“Meg, Meg, Meg!” Zoe kept saying as she caught up to her.

Meg looked to see her running after her, but still didn’t say a thing.

“Meg I have to talk to you.” Zoe walking alongside her.

“Oh, did you finally learn how to talk again? What were your first words this time - dada or go suck a thumb?” Meg finally replied.

“Look Meg - “ Zoe tried to say.

“And if you don’t want to talk to me, that’s fine. I just want that Jenny doll convertible back I lent you.” Meg cut her off.

“Meg please - I’m real sorry for being a grumpy butt lately.” Zoe said.

“A witch is more like it.” Meg replied.

“There’s no need to swear like that, Meg. We’re still besties after all.” Zoe said.

“Oh, are we!?” Meg said as she stopped in her tracks and turned back to look Zoe in the eye. “Besties don’t run out on each other or ignore each other’s texts.”

“I know Meg.” Zoe replied.

“And after all I’ve done for you. Lending you my diaper bag, hooking you up with Ben.” Meg said.

“I know Meg. It’s just, I was really upset about not getting that promotion. And about other things. I mean I worked really, really hard and I was hoping that if it all paid off I could actually have something to hope for in life. I never really wanted to work in sales, it was just a job I got, with your help of course, just to pay the bills at the time. But you’ve always been there to help get me through it, especially when times were really tough for me.” Zoe said.

Meg, having settled down herself, just kept listening.

“I know I should have been there to support you and your success in getting the promotion. It’s a wonderful opportunity and I’m really glad you got it. It was just hard for me to get over my own jealousy and disappointment.” Zoe continued.

“Well, if it would make you feel any better you sort of dodged a BB pellet. Timmy’s having me work extra time making up people’s schedules, training new hires, dealing with complaints from all our problematic customers. A real pain in the padded butt.” Meg said.

“Gosh, I guess never thought of it that way.” Zoe said.

“I was really hoping for you to be there to support me, Zoe. I could really use your help now that I’m going to be manager and all and I can’t always be around to help out everyone in the sales room.” Meg said.

“I’d be more than happy to help you Meg. We’ve always been there to help each other.” Zoe replied.

“Yeah.” Meg said.

“So - how is it being the manager and all?” Zoe asked.

“Ugh, stressful, tiresome and stinky. And that’s just from working with Timmy.” Meg replied.

“Meg.” Timmy the supervisor said as he walked up to them. “Before you leave I still need you to finish scheduling the interviews for the new hires.”

“See what I mean.” Meg continued with a sly smirk.

“What?” Timmy said.

“Oh, it’s nothing. So Zoe, I hear you’ve been working with Kim on the design for her store. Has that been going?” Meg asked.

“Oh Kim! I forgot.” Zoe said, raising her hands to her head. “I have to leave. See you around Meg.” She said as she took off running out the building.

“That girl is always in a hurry to be someplace. Why can’t girls just learn to stay cool and relaxed like us boys instead of running around frantically all the time?” Timmy said.

“She’s trying to get her life together, you - you - piggy.” Meg replied.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Aug 14, 2022 at 10:55 PM
Content: Part 18

Much, much later that evening, after she missed the downtown bus, had to call for a pick-up driver who spent more than fifteen minutes trying to find her and another hour stuck in traffic following a milk truck spill on the freeway, having given up and decided to get out of the car to walk another forty so minutes across town over to Kim’s apartment, Zoe finally made it up to Kim’s flat where, exhausted and out of breath, she rang the doorbell and waited patiently for an answer. Soon enough the door opened as Kim appeared, looking a bit baffled by her presence.

“Zoe?” Kim said, still surprised.

“Hey Kim - you mind if I come in?” Zoe asked, still out of breath.

“ - Yeah, sure.” Kim replied.

Zoe stepped in and waited just by the side of the door, which was about as far as her tired legs could take her.

“Soooo - do you want something to drink?” Kim asked as she turned toward the kitchen area.

“No, I’m fine.” Zoe replied.

“You sure - you seem a little out of breath.” Kim remarked.

“I’m fine. I just - got done with my daily exercise.” Zoe replied.

“Oh.” Kim said as the two fell awkwardly quiet.

“Kim - can I ask you a question?” Zoe said, finally breaking the ice.

“Sure.” Kim replied as she stood nervously holding her arm and trying her best to avoid eye contact.

“Have you ever been in love?” Zoe asked.

“Who - what - me?” Kim replied, caught off guard. “Well um, yeah I guess. I just never knew what it was like to feel loved back is all.”

“I feel like I can relate.” Zoe said. “You see that boy I told you about, the one I liked - well it turned out he doesn’t like me as much as I like him.”

“Oh - sorry to hear that.” Kim said, looking a bit green with envy.

“Yeah.” Zoe replied, appearing just as awkward. “Hey Kim?”

“Yeah?” Kim muttered.

“Do you like me? I mean like, like me?” Zoe asked.

“Yeah - at least I thought I did.” Kim replied, crossing her arms in front of her chest.

“That’s sweet.” Zoe said with a little smile. “I’ve never really dated anyone before, boy or girl. In fact, I’ve never even played the birds and bees with anyone before. Although I guess that goes without saying of course.”

Kim, still with her arms folded, finally began to gaze up at Zoe as she talked.

“I’ve always just been a bit shy and boring and timid. I never really applied myself at school or with others. I’ve always just gone with the flow, and I don’t really think the flow got me anywhere I like. I’m twenty-six and I’m just living paycheck to paycheck, alone. Not really getting out as much as I’d like to. Never taking any chances. But I’m still hoping to change.” Zoe went on.

Kim, finally relaxing her arms by letting them hand to the side, stood by listening intently.

“I always imagined that things would gradually make more sense when I became an adult, yet things still just don’t seem to click for me. In fact, I don’t even know what being an adult even means. And it seems like most people are in the same boat I’m in. Maybe there is no such thing as ‘adult’. We’re all just children still growing up and learning as we go along, I guess. And I think I’ve learned a lot in these past few weeks.” Zoe continued.

“And?” Kim muttered.

“If there’s one thing I’m certain about in life it’s that life is never really certain. Things keep changing every day and there’s no sense in just waiting for it to change for you. You just gotta get out of your crib and go for what you want most in life, even if you find out later that you may never end up getting it. And there’s no sense in just sitting around and crying about it. You just gotta keep on going and learn what’s well within your reach. If you ever fall down, just get back up and try walking again.” Zoe said.

“Yeah, that sounds just about right - I guess.” Kim shrugged, folding her arms once more.

“Kim - I know you may be a bit off putting and stand-offish at times, but deep down, once you get past your defensive nature, I think that you’re really kind and sweet. You’ve given me greater hope and support these past few weeks we’ve been together than I could have ever imagined, and more I deserved after having run out on you so abruptly. It’s just that, when you like another person so, so much and you can’t hardly imagine your life without them being there with you, you just don’t want to risk forgetting about them and letting them go without saying anything. I felt like, if I could move on from Ben then other people may just move on from me without even thinking about it.” Zoe said woefully.

“Yeah. I know the feeling.” Kim replied.

“Kim, I think you’re a very sweet friend - and a very attractive girl. When you kissed me the other night and we made out on the couch together, it was one of the most exhilarating feelings I’d ever felt in my entire life.” Zoe said.

“Yeah.” Kim replied, beginning to perk up.

“But I still don’t know how I feel about you. I mean, we’ve only been hanging out for about a month. And I don’t know how appropriate it is for business partners to be engaged in a romantic relationship with each other.” Zoe said with a blush to her cheeks.

“Oh.” Kim said, having lost her initial zeal.

“I know you might like me Kim but I can’t honestly say the feeling’s mutual and I’m not about to lead you on. If it means anything I’d still really like to work with you on your store design, just promise to keep it a bit more professional from now on, okay?” Zoe said nervously.

“ - Okay.” Kim replied, a bit disheartened.

“Great - I like to hear that. I could really use the money.” Zoe said.

“Yeah. And I could really use a new design to liven up my drab store.” Kim replied.

“Partners?” Zoe said, extending her hand out for a shake.

“Partners.” Kim replied, shaking her hand. “And friends.”

“Right.” Zoe said with a bright smile. “So uh, would you mind giving me a ride home? I’d rather not walk again.”

“Sure.” Kim replied.

“Thank you, very much.” Zoe said. “But first, may I use your changing room for a minute? I’ve been running all over town in a wet one.”

“Oh, here let me show you. Come, follow me.” Kim said, taking Zoe by the hand and leading her toward the hallway.

“Oh wait. I don’t need - - “ Zoe stuttered to say.

“No - allow me, please. We’re both adults here, and it’s okay for two consenting adults to change one another’s diapers.” Kim replied with a smile as she led Zoe back to the changing room and closed the door.

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Author: binkieblondeboy
Timestamp: Aug 30, 2022 at 11:02 PM
Content: Part 19

Epilogue

Bling! Bling! Bling!

The phone alarm rang early in the morning upon the strike of seven until a hand suddenly reached out and, after a while of groggily slapping about the dresser drawer, finally nabbed the phone, looked at it for a second and then shut it off.

“It’s Saturday.” Zoe thought to herself. “Silly goose forgot to turn her alarm off.”

Zoe, age twenty-seven, remained just as she was, lying flat on her stomach with her arm tucked under the pillow. The sun, hiding just behind the tall skyscrapers that made up the city skyline, gave off an exuberant shine that filtered through the misty blue sky and appeared to seep into the room between the narrow gap in the black window curtains, filling the space with a dim cool glow as the loud cacophony of street traffic roaring by just outside the room went ignored.

Still comfortable in the crib, Zoe took the time to relieve herself where she laid, the diaper filling up between the legs. The bedroom was fairly large though a bit cramped with a large queen size crib, white dresser, black side tables, cozy chair and deluxe dollhouse playset taking up much of the available space. The walls were painted a light shade of gray and adorned with a collection of professional finger paintings, framed and autographed, along with several decorative plants and white fuzzy rug to tie it all together. It was relatively serene, even with the traffic noise, calm and relaxing enough to stay in the crib all day if one wanted to.

“Oh poop!” Zoe said as she suddenly rose up in the bed, disturbing Kim who was lying next to her with her arm around her back.

“Wha - What is it?” Kim said groggily.

“I almost forgot. I’ve got to meet Ben at the airport in twenty minutes.” Zoe said as she sat up and clenched her messy hair with her hands.

“Oh, but it’s Saturday. Can’t we sleep in?” Kim moaned as she buried her face into her pillow.

“Come on Kim, get up. I need you to drive us down there.” Zoe said, shaking Kim as she laid next to her, the both of them in nothing but their diapers.

“Alright, alright. I’ll get up.” Kim said.

“Hurry! He’s expecting us down there and I don’t want to get caught up in traffic.” Zoe said in a panic.

“Okay, okay. Calm down Zoe. Don’t get excited. Ben won’t mind if we run a little late.” Kim said.

“Yes, but he’s bringing a friend and I don’t want to keep them both waiting.” Zoe said.

“Ugh, there hasn’t been a day yet I haven’t seen you get grumpy.” Kim said, as she rubbed her hand along Zoe’s stomach.

“I’m not grumpy. If only you didn’t insist on staying up late playing doctor last night.” Zoe said as she undid the clips keeping her bun and letting her hair fall by her shoulders.

“As I recall, you seemed to like having your little temperature taken in your bum bum.” Kim said as she leaned in and kissed Zoe on the cheek.

“Quit. I actually had a cold last night.” Zoe said as she dropped the side of the crib bars.

“I bet you’re feeling better now.” Kim said with a devious smile and her arms around Zoe’s shoulders.

“Come on Kim, knock it off. We’ve got to hurry.” Zoe said, trying to struggle free from Kim’s arms.

“Oh, come here.” Kim said as she pulled Zoe toward her and the two kissed on the mouth.

“Okay, come on. Let’s go!” Zoe said as she hopped out of the crib.

“Why are you so nervous Zoe? It’s not like you haven’t hung out with Ben before.” Kim said, scratching her head, her hair still neat and smooth after a long night’s sleep.

“I’m just - a little anxious is all. It’s been months since I’ve seen him and I want to make a good impression on his friend and - and -” Zoe said frantically.

“Zoe - calm down! You’ll be fine. Ben likes you the way you are. Just like I do.” Kim said with a kind smile.

“Right.” Zoe said, calming down. “Which outfit should I wear, the overalls or the mini-skirt?”

“Mini-skirt.” Kim replied. “It shows off your legs.”

“Okay. I’m kind of wet though, but - It’s okay.” Zoe replied.

“You need your diaper changed?” Kim asked. “Come on - I’ll change you.”

“No, I’m fine. I just - “ Zoe said.

“Come on. No sense in risking a rash.” Kim said as she got up and pulled Zoe over to the bed where she sat her down.

“It’s just - me and Ben have hardly had time to see each other with him constantly working out of state and our schedules never lining up.” Zoe said.

“Why don’t you ask Meg for some time off?” Kim asked as she dug through her dresser to fetch a clean diaper, some wipes and starch powder.

“I can’t. Meg really needs me to help out all the new hires they got at the candy place while Timmy’s been giving her all this extra work to do. Plus now that she’s had a bun in the oven for over a month now and she’s finally starting to get morning spit up.” Zoe replied as she got her phone from off the bed table and furiously began to construct a text.

“Ugh, all because she and Nicky couldn’t play safe. Now I assume we’re going to have a wedding to attend sometime soon and I don’t have anything to wear.” Kim said as she returned and laid Zoe gently back down along the bed.

“I don’t have anything to wear either and I don’t have the money to get anything fancy at the moment.” Zoe said as Kim began to undo the tabs of her diaper.

“Don’t worry. I’m sure I can get some dresses from the store. At the owner’s discount of course.” Kim said as she unfolded Zoe’s wet diaper and slowly slid it out from underneath her bottom.

“Oh, and did you finally get that sign delivered? The one I designed and we ordered like two months ago.” Zoe asked.

“Yes. I had it put in the front of the store and people love it! You should hear the things they say about it.” Kim said as she folded up and tossed the dirty diaper into the waste bin.

She then got out a wet wipe and began wiping Zoe down between the legs.

“They love it!? Really!? Oh, it’s the little things that pick me up.” Zoe said.

“Yeah.” Kim said. “Zoe, you're in need of a shave. I was going to say something last night. You’re getting a bit fuzzy down here.”

“Well, you’re the one who borrowed my razor and then lost it.” Zoe said.

“Oh - well I’m sure I can get a better one from my store.” Kim said as she tossed the wet wipe and unfolded the crinkly fresh diaper, sliding it under Zoe’s bottom. “Who are you texting?”

“Venessa - I borrowed her Teresa doll and forgot to give it back to her yesterday.” Zoe replied.

“Ugh - that girl has enough dolls. She could afford to lose a few.” Kim said as she dumped powder along Zoe’s pelvis and diapered her up.

“Yes, but it’s the polite thing to do and besides we’ve got another play date with the girls next weekend at Cole’s.” Zoe said as Kim pulled her up by the arms and sat her up along the edge of the crib.

“And I’m sure they’re going to ask me to bring my luxury jet playset as well.” Kim replied.

“Well of course. How else is Daryl supposed to arrive back from his vacation home to see Breanna?” Zoe said.

“He can swim. He is a five-time Olympic gold medalist after all.” Kim replied as she put her hand on Zoe’s cheek and looked at her tenderly.

“ - What?” Zoe asked.

“Nothing - I just like the way your hair looks in the morning when it’s all frizzy.” Kim said.

“You’re just saying that.” Zoe said with a blush.

Kim placed her other hand on Zoe’s cheek and leaned in to kiss her on the mouth. The two sucked lips for a while as Zoe, gently placing her hands around Kim’s diapered hips, slowly moved them on up along her abdomen before cupping them over her bare chest, squeezing her breast tenderly as they continued to make out. Eventually the two broke apart for air as they both smiled while looking into each other’s eyes.

“Come on, come on! Get dressed! We need to get going.” Zoe said as she hopped up off the bed and rushed over to the dresser, pulling Kim along with her.

Twenty minutes later, Zoe and Kim found themselves frantically running through the airport terminal in search of Ben.

“Where are they?” Zoe asked.

“Chill out Zoe. They said the plane was a little late.” Kim replied.

“Oh, there they are! Come on.” Zoe shouted as she grabbed Kim by the hand and pulled her along toward Ben who could be seen walking over from the suitcase conveyor with all his luggage and a girl walking beside him.

“Hey Ben! How was your trip?” Zoe said gleefully as she ran up to Ben and hugged her arms around him.

“Work, work and more work. I never do get to spend any time relaxing on any of these trips. And how have you been?” Ben asked, wrapping his arms around her and hugging her tight for a moment.

“Fine, I guess. Kim had her store redone. You should come check it out when you get the chance. I got to do some of the design work.” Zoe said.

“Oh great. We’ll be sure to check it out. And how’s Meg by the way?” Ben asked.

“Oh, she and Nicky’s waiting for the stork now so now Meg’s going to have other diapers to change besides’ Nicky’s. They’re also looking for a new apartment to move in together.” Zoe replied.

“Oh, that’s so nice. I might know of a place I helped build about two years ago. I’d be glad to show her the place. But first I could really go for something to eat.” Ben said.

“Yeah, the bottles they served on the plane - Blah!” The girl next to Ben said.

“Oh - Zoe, this is Inés. We’ve been working together for over a year.” Ben said.

“Well - it’s been more than just work between us to be honest.” Inés said.

Zoe looked at her for a second before extending a hand.

“Hi - nice to meet you.” Zoe said with a pleasant smile as the two shook hands. “Ben and I have been friends since middle school. And this is my gal pal Kim.”

“Hey, nice to meet you too.” Kim said as she shook hands with Inés as well.

“Gal Pal? How adorable. Have you two known each other long?” Inés asked.

“No, not really. But we did get to know each other well.” Kim replied as she wrapped her arms around Zoe’s neck and laid her head on her shoulder.

“That’s so wonderful.” Inés said.

“Oh hey - they should be serving breakfast down at the Yum Yum restaurant. Let’s get going so we can be first in line.” Ben said.

“Alright, let’s go.” Zoe replied.

“I can give everyone a ride. I’ve got a motorized car.” Kim added as she held up her plastic set of car keys.

Later, outside the airport as Ben and Inés went on ahead to the car, Zoe and Kim hung back a little as they held hands in the parking lot.

“Hey Zoe?” Kim said.

“Yeah?” Zoe asked.

“Would you ever be interested in having kids?” Kim asked.

“What!? I - I don’t know. I mean, I’ve always wanted a little boy. But - but -” Zoe replied, getting flustered.

“Zoe - we’ll worry about it later.” Kim said.

“ - Okay,” Zoe said with a blush.

The two leaned in and kissed each other on the lips.

“I love you Kim.” Zoe said.

“I love you Zoe.” Kim replied.

“But I do want a boy.” Zoe said.

“Yuck - I’d rather have a girl.” Kim replied as the two continued on down the parking lot together with their hands clasped together between them.