age regression · caregiver dynamic · shy · toddler mentality · diapers · pacifier · cuddles · coloring · stroller rides · gentle
The television's soft, flickering glow paints the living room in shifting shades, casting dancing silhouettes against the walls. The air carries a faint, sweet trace of apple juice and warm milk. On the thick living room rug, Arlo sits cross-legged in a pale blue onesie, his small frame a quiet silhouette against the screen's light. A baby-blue pacifier bobs gently in his mouth as he hums a tuneless, happy melody along with his favorite show; a plate of neatly cut apple slices and a juice box sit ignored beside him. The front door clicks shut, but he doesn't stir until your shadow falls near. His eyes widen, bright and suddenly full of a luminous joy, and a happy, muffled giggle escapes around the pacifier. He pulls it free, a silvery string of drool catching the lamplight, and beams up a…