The Boy Who Couldn't Grow Up

Chapter 1
Whole Story

It was a bright, clear, warm, sunny summer day. School was out for summer vacation, and the Smith family was packing their family van for a fun road trip. James, a four-year-old boy with short brown hair and brown eyes, walked out to the car carrying his favorite brown teddy bear. Today his mom had dressed him in a cute pair of denim shortalls, blue and white sneakers that lit up in back, blue socks, and a blue and white t-shirt. A slight bulge could be seen under his shortalls, and he rustled a bit when he walked, but it was nothing out of the ordinary for him. He was in the end stages of being potty trained, and usually made it to the toilet in time, but for long trips and when no restroom would be readily available, his mom and dad made sure to put him in a pullup. He didn't mind much so long as none of his friends at preschool found out.

“All ready to go sport?” asked James's dad, picking him up and patting him on the back. He was always a very loving father, and knew his son wouldn't need to wear disposable underwear much longer. He never made fun or chided him for wearing them on long trips, and always reassured him if he had an accident.

James smiled and blushed, holding his teddy bear tightly. “Uh huh!” he said.

“Did you go potty before you came out?” asked his mother, packing a small diaper bag just in case. She loved James, and wanted more than anything for him to stay this small forever, or perhaps even smaller. She didn't want her little man to ever leave the nest, so she cherished every day with him.

“I did mommy!” said James, proud of his accomplishment.

“That's good.” said Mia, James's sister. She was seven-years-old and had long brunette hair. Today she wore some light blue pants, a pink shirt, and some pink and white sneakers. “So we won't have to stop or worry about him leaking on his car seat again.” She got into the car and sat down in the middle seat, then fastened her seat belt. She mostly got along with James, although sometimes his babyish ways, crying, and whining got on her nerves. It was different when he was a baby and couldn't talk. She actually liked helping her mom take care of him back then, but now he was older and able to think and speak more clearly. He was less a baby and more of a little kid now, which meant he would sometimes wonder into her room or nag her about getting a snack or doing something for him when their parents were busy.

James blushed and wiggled, being reminded of a prior accident.

“It's okay champ.” said James's dad, putting him into his little gray and blue car seat and fastening him into it securely. “You'll tell us if you have to go, right?”

“Uh huh!” said James. “I pwomise!” He smiled and kicked his little feet.

“Good boy.” said his dad, ruffling his son's hair. Everyone got into the car, and soon they were on the road. The radio played some classic songs from mom and dad's youth. It was music both children had heard all their lives, and also enjoyed listening to, although lately Mia had begun listening to more modern music.

James smiled and rocked back and forth in his little car seat, smiling and snuggling his teddy bear while Mia listened to something else on her headphones. He looked out of the window at all of the people passing by in their cars, the houses as they passed through the neighborhood, and tall buildings once they reached the city. Everything was so big outside of their home. It was a big adult world that he had no understanding of, but enjoyed seeing nonetheless. After the first hour passed, he was beginning to get sleepy. His eyes drooped and his head grew heavy.

“Honey look out!” shouted James's mom. There was a large semi truck barreling towards them in traffic.

“Oh no!” shouted James's dad, unable to turn the car in time. “Kids! We love-” Their shouting woke James out of his sleepy fog. The last thing he remembered was the sound of everyone screaming and a very loud bang.

When James opened his eyes, the first thing he saw was a bright light. It kept moving around and around in front of him. He felt a little cold, but had a hard time moving. He tried to speak, but then came the pain. It shot through his little body like fire, causing him to scream out and cry loudly. This prompted the doctor examining him to ask the nurse for more pain medication. Carefully, the nurse administered the clear fluid to his IV, which had been attached to his arm. James continued to cry and wail, trying to move his arms and legs, but they felt like they were being held in place by something. Tears streamed down his face, making him unable to see the doctor or the nurse clearly. Slowly, the pain began to ease, and his body relaxed. Finally, he was able to concentrate and hear what they were talking about. He wanted to wipe the tears from his eyes, but his arms were bound. He felt something soft against his face, and realized it was the nurse wiping his tears. His eyes blinked and he looked up at her pretty, caring face.

“There we go.” said the nurse, sounding very compassionate. “That's better. Just calm down and breathe. You've been through a lot.”

“James?” asked the doctor, a man with balding black and white hair, round glasses, and white lab coat. “Do you know where you are?”

“Ah...” James replied. Talking hurt for some reason. He coughed a little, his throat feeling very dry.

“Oh I'm sorry.” said the nurse. “Here, drink this.” She offered the small boy a paper cup of cold water, holding it up to his lips.

James felt the cold water against his lips and began to drink. Once again, he tried moving his arms, but couldn't bring a hand to his face. The water felt very refreshing, and he drank down two whole cups. “Oh, uh...mmm...whewe mommy?” he asked.

The doctor and nurse looked at each other and frowned, then looked down at James. “James, I'm so sorry.” said the doctor. “You've been in a terrible car accident. You broke a lot of bones, which need to stay in place to heal. That's why you can't move your arms or legs. You have several fractures, and were hurt very badly. Do you understand?”

James whined and nodded. He didn't like where this was going.

“Good.” said the doctor. “You were also covered in a strange chemical that one of the trucks was carrying. At first it gave you chemical burns on your skin, but then those healed quickly. We don't know what sort of chemical it was just yet, but we are going to find out.”

“Do you need anything?” asked the nurse. “Are you comfortable?”

“I want mommy.” said James, tears in his eyes again. “I want daddy.”

The nurse began to tear up herself, and tried her best not to sob in front of the boy. “Listen, James, it's going to be okay.” she said, caressing his soft hair. “Just try and get some rest.”

“Where's Mia?” asked James.

“She is being treated in another room.” said the doctor. “Her injuries weren't as severe as yours.”

“Mommy!” shouted James. “Daddy! I want mommy and daddy!”

“Oh James, I'm sorry.” said the doctor. “I'm so sorry. Your parents are...gone.”

“Gone where?” asked James.

“They...well, they died James.” said the doctor, unsure of how else to tell him. As a doctor, it was always his duty to give family the bad news.

James began to tear up again. He didn't know much about death yet, but he knew enough to realize he wouldn't see them again. A sick feeling came over him, and he felt something welling up inside his throat. “N-no!” he squeaked out. “Mommy! Daddy! I need mommy and daddy!” He began to wail loudly again, this time out of despair and sadness. Two of the people he loved most in this world were gone, suddenly snatched away from him during a time that was supposed to be fun and happy.

The nurse hugged James gently, doing her best to not hurt him as she did so. She held and supported his head, and cried along with him. “Oh you poor little lamb.” she said. “I'm so sorry.” She stayed with him and comforted him a while longer while the doctor performed a few more tests and gave him a little something to help him relax more.

The doctor sighed and rubbed his reddened face. As a doctor, he saw his share of misery and loss, but he had not become numb to it. “I'm sorry too son.” he said. “I really am. We are all here to help you though. Once you are ready, there is someone who wants to meet you. Your sister Mia may visit you soon as well, when she has recovered. She is eager to see you.”

“M-Mia?” James stammered, his lips quivering. “I wanna see hew.”

“Soon darling, soon.” said the nurse, giving him a kiss on the forehead. She dried his tears again and let him blow his nose, then picked up a remote control attached to the bed. “Look.” She pressed a button on the remote and the TV came on. There were fun cartoons playing. “Here, you can watch some TV.” She placed the remote in one of his small hands. “If you need something, press this button. If you want to turn the TV off, press this button.” She instructed him on how to use it.

James sniffled, able to hold the remote in his hand, but not move it around. He watched her carefully and remembered her instructions. When the nurse stood to leave, he squirmed a little. “N-no, dun go.” he whimpered.

“Awww, sweetie, I'm just going to get you something to drink.” said the nurse. “I'll be right back.” She left the room, and James was all alone for the moment.

James looked up at the cartoon, but it was of little comfort. He squirmed as tears began to roll down his cheeks again. He couldn't help but think of his family that he desperately wished he could see again. He wished this were just some dream or nightmare that he would wake up from soon. He looked down to see thick, white, heavy casts on his legs and arms, and wrappings around his chest. Around his waist, much to his embarrassment, was a thick blue diaper. He hiccuped a little and blushed. Each time he moved a little it would crinkle loudly. Oddly enough, it was a bit comforting, like when he was a baby and didn't have to worry about the potty or much of anything. It was certainly a happier time than right now. He had an urge to suck his thumb, but since his arms were in casts, he wasn't able to.

Soon the nurse came back in with something on a tray. It looked like a sippy cup. “I'm back.” she said with a smile. “Still doing okay?”

James just whimpered and shook his head.

“Aww, well, maybe something in that tummy will help.” said the nurse. She want over to the bed side and sat down, then picked up the cup and held it up to him. “It will be a few days before you can have solid food, so until then you will have to drink this formula.”

“Formuwa?” asked James.

“Yes, it's like...well, it's like baby formula, but for big boys.” said the nurse. She held the nozzle up to his lips.

James didn't want to drink baby formula. He wasn't a baby. Even though he currently had on a diaper and couldn't move much, he was still a big boy. He didn't really want a sippy cup either, but he didn't want to disobey the nurse. He accepted the cup and began to drink from it. He was rewarded with a creamy vanilla taste that was actually very good. He wasn't sure how long it had been since he last ate, but he was hungry and drank the formula down rather quickly, then burped.

“Oh my, hungry were we?” asked the nurse. She smiled and wiped his mouth. “I guess that's to be expected. You have been asleep for a few days. Have you ever been in a hospital before? I mean, other than when you were born?”

James shook his head and hiccuped.

“Oh, well, this bag of clear stuff is connected to a vein in your arm here.” said the nurse, pointing to the glucose bag. “It gives you nutrition so that you don't have to eat as much, and helps you heal faster. Once you are well enough, we can take it out and you can start eating regular food again.”

“When?” asked James.

“I'm not sure.” said the nurse. “But your surface injuries have healed quickly, and you're very young, so your body will naturally heal fast as well. I'd say maybe a week or two.”

“A week?” James whined. “I wanna get up!”

“Aww, I know dear, but you can't right now.” said the nurse. “But if you get plenty of rest, soon you will be able to.”

James nodded and continued to watch cartoons, unable to do much else. The nurse would come and go, checking on him periodically. He blushed hotly when she checked his diaper, and even more when she found it wet.

“Looks like you need a change.” said the nurse. She saw James frown and his lower lip quiver. “Don't worry. It's nothing to be ashamed of. It's not like you can make it to a potty in your condition anyway. Even adults in your condition have to wear them. Just let me take care of it for you.” She retrieved another sterile blue diaper from a stack nearby, then gently tugged the tapes of his diaper free and opened it.

James shivered a little as the cold hospital air swept across his warm, wet skin. It gave him goosebumps, and the shivering made his body hurt. He let out a few soft whimpers and whines, but let the nurse clean him with a wet baby wipe. It reminded him of when he would have a night time accident and his mommy or daddy would change him and clean him up. They told him the same thing, that he didn't need to be embarrassed, but he was. He knew that big boys wore underwear and used the potty, and only little boys wet or messed themselves like a baby. He had never thought about the idea of an adult wearing a diaper, but somehow the knowledge that even they sometimes had to wear them gave him some comfort at least. Before long, he had been cleaned and re-diapered. He could smell baby powder, making him feel even more babyish.

“There, all clean and dry again.” said the nurse. She disposed of the used diaper in a bio-hazard bin and washed her hands at the sink. She walked back over to James and noticed him wincing. “Are you having pain again?”

James nodded and moaned a little. The pain medication was wearing off, and his injuries were making his whole body throb in pain. “Uh huh...” he said softly.

“I'll get something for the pain then.” said the nurse. “We just have to limit how much we give you since you are so young.”

“Thanks.” said James. He watched as the nurse got a syringe of medicine and injected it into his IV. He could feel it when the cool liquid entered his veins, and soon his pain was fading to a more tolerable level.

“There you go.” said the nurse, patting him on the head gently. “Now, try and get some rest. Remember to call me if you need anything.”

“Okay.” said James. He watched the nurse leave the room, then turned his attention back to the TV. The medicine was making him drowsy, and soon he had fallen asleep. It wasn't a restful sleep, since he kept dreaming of being in the car, seeing his parents' faces as they braced for impact, then somehow hearing the terrible sound of breaking glass and metal smashing together. He squirmed, screaming out in terror, but still asleep due to the medication. Unable to wake up, he experienced the nightmare over and over, even in slow motion, and no matter how hard he tried to change it, he could not. All he wanted was to see his mom, dad, and sister again, but not like this. All the nurse could do was watch and make sure he didn't further hurt himself. It would at times get so bad that they had to strap his arms and legs down to make sure he didn't accidentally break his casts.

A few days later, there was a knock at his door. This usually meant that the doctor or nurse was coming in, but this time it was a more familiar face. James's eyes lit up when he saw Mia standing there wearing a sling.

“Mia!” shouted James. He was so happy, he wanted to reach out to her, but the casts prevented him from doing so. Tears streamed down his face, but they were tears of happiness upon seeing her.

Mia looked at James and his bandaged body. He looked so small and pathetic. The diaper made him look younger than he was. She was sad, yet happy at the same time, and she too began to cry. “James!” she shouted, rushing over to his side. Behind her came the nurse and the doctor, as well as one other person. It was a large adult man he hadn't seen before. The man had a strong physical appearance, short brown hair, brown eyes, and a mustache. He had on a colorful tropical shirt and khaki shorts. For the moment, James ignored him and gave his entire attention to Mia.

“Careful now.” said the doctor as Mia rushed over to hug James. “I know you two want to hug, but his body is still healing.”

“Oh...okay.” said Mia. Instead of a hug, she gripped his little hand and held it, smiling down at him and sniffling. “James...I'm so happy to see you.”

“I'm happy to see you too Mia.” said James, smiling and sniffling. He felt her warm hands on his and flexed his fingers, grabbing onto her.

“M-mom and dad...they're...” said Mia.

“I...I know.” said James. “Don't say it.”

Mia laid her head down on James's chest and held his hand for a while, and the two shared a tender bonding moment. The others just watched, not wanting to interrupt. They both cried and shared their sadness at the loss of their parents, as well as their current situation. Then James turned his attention to the stranger in the room.

“Who's he?” asked James, looking at the man.

“That's...Sam.” said Mia. “He's our new...dad.”

“D-dad?” asked James. He looked at Sam and back to Mia. “But I dun wanna new daddy, I want our daddy.”

“I know.” said Mia. “Me too, but we...they...you know.” She saw that James was on the verge of tears again and gave his hand a squeeze. “Don't worry, okay? It just means he is going to look after us until we're big. Plus, he's really nice and fun.”

Sam walked forward with something behind his back. “Uh, hi James.” he said in a deep, manly voice. “Listen, I know you don't want a replacement dad. I wish I could bring him back. I wish I could bring them both back. In fact, I'd trade my own life if it meant they would be alive again, but I can't. All I can do is...” He moved his arms out from behind his back to show that he had a white lop-eared bunny plush in his hands. It had a little pink nose and a black bow tie. “All I can do is take care of you as if you were my own kids.”

James looked at the plush and up at the man's big, gentle face. It was all so hard to get used to, but he did miss his plush, and although this wasn't the same one, he wanted it.

Sam gently put the plush in James's other hand and let him grab it. “I hope you like it.” he said. “I-if not, I can get you something else. I just want you both to be happy.”

“Th-thanks.” said James, squeezing the plush in his hand. He sniffled and wished he could cuddle it to his chest.

“Sorry son.” said the doctor, noticing his struggles. “The good news is that you're healing at a fast rate. Those casts are about ready to come off. It may still be a while before you can walk or use utensils, but we can help with that too.”

“I'm glad to hear it doc.” said Sam. “You hear that James? You're going to be up and running around again in no time. As soon as you both are better, I promise we can do whatever you want.”

“Thank you.” said Mia. “If it's okay with you, I want to stay in here with him until he gets better.”

“Well, this is the ICU.” said the doctor. “Normally we don't allow others to stay here that aren't in need of urgent care.”

“Come on doc, you saw how happy he was when she walked in.” said Sam. “Her being here will encourage him to get better faster.”

“I agree.” said the doctor. “Like I said, normally we don't allow it, but in this case, I think it will be for the best.”

“Yay!” James cheered. “Mia is gonna stay wif me!”

“I will too.” said Sam.

“You don't have to.” said Mia.

“But I want to.” said Sam. “As your new legal guardian, I want to make sure I am here to help in any way I can.”

“Very well.” said the doctor. “But there may be times when you are asked to leave the room.”

“Understood.” said Sam.

“That's great news.” said the nurse. She walked over and checked James's diaper. “Oh, excuse me, but James needs a change.”

James blushed and squirmed a little on the bed.

“Don't worry James, we'll be right here.” said Mia, standing next to Sam.

“O-okay...” said James. He gripped the plush rabbit tightly as his diaper was changed again. He was getting worried since he hadn't ever felt the need to go. He seemed to just suddenly realize he was in a wet or messy diaper. He closed his eyes and pretended the nurse was his mother, and he was on the changing table. It wasn't ideal, but it was better than reality.

“All done.” said the nurse, disposing of the used diaper and washing her hands.

“Are you in any pain James?” asked the doctor.

James nodded. “A little.” he said softly.

“That's a huge improvement over yesterday.” said the doctor. He made some notes in his pad and then motioned to the nurse.

The nurse added some medicine to James's IV, but a lower dose than yesterday.

Mia came back over and held James's hand. Sam joined, and patted his head.

James felt better, both from the medicine and the attention. He was still afraid of falling asleep, so he kept the TV on and watched cartoons. As the day went on, he was fed, changed, cleaned, and tended to. Mia was given her own bed to sleep in and Sam slept on a small cot. He looked rather silly, being such a large man on a tiny cot, but he was determined to stay and help.

A few days later, it was time for James's casts to come off. The doctor came in with a small electric saw and began cutting through them. James winced a little, afraid of the buzzing sound. Something about it reminded him of the crash, and he felt his diaper grow warm. Mia and Sam were there watching and waiting. Sam had gotten him a big Mylar balloon that said “Get Well Soon” on it, and it fluttered in the corner. It had images of Paw Patrol characters on it. Sam had seen James watch the show and figured he enjoyed it. He had even gotten him some Paw Patrol clothing to wear once he was home.

Once the casts were cut open and removed, the nurse cleaned him up and the doctor began his examination. He started by gently moving James's leg and foot.

“Does this hurt?” asked the doctor.

“A widdle bit.” said James. It didn't hurt as much as it first did, but it still hurt some.

“Hmm, how about this?” asked the doctor, moving his other leg.

“Same.” said James.

“So just a little pain?” asked the doctor.

“Uh huh.” said James.

“That's probably due to muscle weakness.” said the doctor. “According to the x-rays, your bones have all but healed. Now, they're not ready to walk on, but we will need to help get your legs strong enough to do that. Try moving them yourself.”

James winced a little and kicked his legs. They felt sore and stiff, but didn't hurt enough to cry. “Mmf, aah...” he mumbled. He wiggled his toes and looked at how thin and pale his legs had become. He tried moving his arms, but they moved awkwardly.

“It will take time for your muscles to get used to moving again.” said the doctor. “In the meantime, practice picking up and holding things when you feel up to it.”

“Try holding this.” said Mia, handing him the bunny plush.

James wrapped his little fingers around the plush and squeezed it. He tried bringing it up to his chest, but kept flailing a little, like a baby learning to use their arms properly. A frustrated look appeared on his face as he concentrated and finally snuggled the bunny. “Ooh, why it so hawd to move?” he asked.

“You've been in those casts for a while now.” said the doctor. “Your broken bones have healed, but the new areas are still weak, and your muscles need to get stronger.”

“You can do it James.” said Sam. “I'll help you with anything you need.”

The doctor turned to Sam and began explaining a daily routine to him. “Take time out of the day to push against his feet and help him pump his legs up and down for a few minutes.” he said. “Then get him to lift something small. Increase the heaviness of the object every day so that his muscles build back strong.”

“How long do you think it will take before he can walk again?” asked Sam.

“Given his quick recovery, I'd say not long.” said the doctor. “Maybe only a couple of days. As long as he eats enough and moves around enough, recovery should be swift.”

Sam looked over at James, who was still kicking and squirming. He was so small, he looked like a baby learning to play, but it was a happy sight.

“Is it okay to hug him?” asked Mia.

“Of course dear.” said the nurse. “Just not too hard.”

“Yay!” Mia cheered. She leaned in and hugged James's little body gently. She could feel his small arms weakly hugging her back.

James hugged his big sister as hard as he could, smiling for the first time since she first came into the room. It felt so good to move, even though it was a workout just trying to hug her. He cooed to her happily and leaned his head on her shoulder.

Mia held him a while and patted his back. She noticed his diaper needed changing, but didn't want to mention it yet. She was just enjoying his warmth and comfort. It was something she had taken for granted before the accident, but now she wanted to hug him every day.

Sam watched the touching scene and smiled. He walked up to James and patted him gently on the head. “You'll be better in no time champ.” he said.

James looked up at Sam and smiled. His dad used to call him champ, and he missed it. During the past few days, he had gotten to know him more, and built up trust with him. He was kind of big and scary at first, but he had been so gentle and kind. He let go of Mia and reached for him, wanting to feel his big hug too.

Sam smiled and hugged little James gently. It felt as though the tiny boy could break under his touch, so he treated him very delicately. He could feel James's tiny hands gripping his sides as best they could. It all brought a tear to his eye, and he rubbed James's back.

James leaned into Sam's large body. He was so huge, like a giant. He was even bigger than he remembered his dad being. His large arms were warm and felt protective around his body. He leaned back, after the hug, and laid on his soft pillow.

The nurse smiled at the touching scene, happy that they children would have a loving caregiver after experiencing such trauma. She went about checking him and found his diaper to be wet. After changing him, she decided it would be best to give him a good bath.

“Oh, please, let me help.” said Sam.

“Gently lift him under his legs and back.” said the nurse.

Sam put one hand under James's legs and another behind his back, then picked him up. He felt so frail and light in his strong arms.

James blushed and wiggled, feeling Sam's strong arms around him. He was completely bare now, but still too young to care about modesty. He was wondering where the bath tub was, but then saw the nurse pull out a clear plastic sheet.

The nurse removed the sheets from his bed and replaced it with the plastic sheet. “Okay, now sit him down again.” she said.

Sam lowered James onto the plastic. “Here you go kiddo.” he said.

James wiggled on the plastic, hearing it crinkle and rustle under him. He was still confused about how this bath was going to work.

The nurse then got a small bowl and filled it with water and some baby bath soap, then mixed it with a sponge. “Okay sweetie, let me know if any of this hurts and I'll stop.” she said. She began to bathe the small boy as Sam stood by and Mia looked on.

James felt the warm water on his skin and smelled the sweet scent of clean soap. It had been a while since he was bathed at all, and it felt very nice. It didn't hurt at all, and he was able to lift his legs a little to help give the nurse access to his whole body. He closed his eyes when she washed his hair, then sat there until she was done. Once he was clean, he was then rinsed down with some plain water and dried in a fluffy towel.

“Now then, isn't that better?” asked the nurse.

James nodded and smiled. “Uh huh.” he said. Then he saw the nurse pull out another diaper and frowned.

“Aww, I know you don't want to wear these, but if it makes you feel better, all children under six are made to wear these while here, just in case.

James just nodded and sighed a little. He felt tired after moving so much, and he didn't want to put up a fight.

Sam helped the nurse to diaper James, taking mental notes on how to do it, since he knew from the doctor that poor James may need these for quite a while. He had been told that James didn't seem to feel it when he had to go potty, and would just go when his body needed to void. That likely meant nerve damage, which may or may not ever heal properly.

Now properly diapered, James was lifted again while the nurse tended to his bed. He felt safe and comfortable in Sam's arms, and looked around the room from this new vantage point. He was so high up that he could see the whole room, and he saw a few of the gifts he had gotten from Sam and the hospital staff. It felt good to be out of that bed, but he knew he would be back in it soon. He watched as the nurse changed his sheets for fresh, clean ones, and noticed a plastic sheet over the mattress, under his sheets. It was the same kind his mom had put on his bed during his potty training.

Sam enjoyed carrying James and walked around the room with him, and over to the window. “Take a look outside.” he said.

James looked out of the window and saw that they were very high up. The hospital must have been a big one. The area looked unfamiliar to him. “Where our house?” he asked.

Sam looked at Mia and back to James. “Well, we're pretty far from your house.” he said.

“I want to see it.” said James. “I want my toys.”

“Well, we're getting all of that for you.” said Sam. “You two can come live with me, here in the city.”

“But I want to go home.” James whined. He struggled a little, kicking his legs and tearing up a bit. He still didn't fully understand.

“James, please.” said Mia. “We...we can't go home.”

“But why?” asked James, sniffling.

“It had to be sold.” said Sam. “We tried to find other family, other relatives, but it seems like your parents came here from another country. There are no listed next of kin. In order to pay for your care here, and moving expenses, I had to sell it. I work here in the city, so I can't move that far away. I'm sorry, but you'll get to see your new home soon. I just really hope you like it.”

“I dunno...” said James. “I wike our home.”

“I know you do pal, but this has to be the way.” said Sam. “You'll have me and your sister, and go to school here.”

“I dun wan...wanna...” said James, suddenly very tired.

“You need your rest.” said the nurse. “Please, lay him down.”

Sam walked over to the bed and laid James down in it, then tucked him in. “All comfy cozy.” he said.

“I wan...uh...” said James, falling asleep.

“This won't be easy.” said Sam, rubbing at his temples. “I love them both. I want the best for them. Right now that's here in this hospital.” He patted James's head and began to pet his hair. “Hang in there bud. It'll all be okay soon.”

There was so much for both children to get used to. First the loss of their parents, then recovery, now a new life with a new parent. During the next few days, Sam and Mia both helped James to strengthen his muscles. As the doctor expected, he healed fast, and soon was able to try walking again.

“Okay James, ready to try and walk?” asked the doctor.

James nodded enthusiastically from Sam's arms.

“Good boy.” said the doctor. “Okay, try setting him down on his feet.”

Sam lowered James down until his feet touched the floor, keeping a grip on his waist just in case. “You can do it buddy.” he said.

James felt the cool tile floor on his feet, and the pressure of his body pushing down on them. He wobbled, a bit unsteady, then tried to take a step. His diaper crinkled as he moved, and he made a few steps, then his legs gave out. Thankfully, Sam kept him from falling. He fussed and grumbled, but tried again.

“That's good James!” Mia cheered. “Keep trying!”

James smiled at Mia's comments and put one foot in front of the other, walking toward the doctor. Being down off his bed now made everything look even bigger than they did before. He felt a bit cold, wearing just a diaper, but he managed to take a few more steps before giving out again. Sam was swift to pull him up.

“That was good!” said the doctor. “You're making amazing progress. I do wonder why exactly. You're healing faster than any child would at your age.”

“I dunno.” said James. “It stiww huwts though.”

“Awww, I know.” said the nurse. “It won't hurt much longer though. Once those muscles toughen up, you'll be running and jumping around like you used to.”

“I hope so.” said James.

“Well, I'm proud of you James.” said Sam, lifting him up into his arms. He smiled and hugged the small child, giving him a few pats on the back.

James smiled and hugged the large man back, laying his head on his chest.

“From now on, you can get in your bed or sit in a chair and try walking.” said the doctor. “I recommend you keep trying whenever you feel up to it.”

“Okay.” said James, rubbing his eyes.

“Looks like you're a little tired.” said Mia.

“It's okay.” said the nurse. “Go a head and take a nap. You've earned it.”

Sam laid James down in the hospital bed and pulled the sheets up over him.

James yawned and smiled, cuddling the bunny plush as he fell asleep. Lately his dreams had been less chaotic and scary. He knew that when he woke up, Mia and Sam would be right there with him.

Soon the day came when James was taken to another area of the hospital. His condition was no longer critical, but he was still having issues with using the potty and walking. The room was in the children's wing, so it was decorated with colorful backgrounds like trees, flowers, clouds, and smiling suns. There were even some cartoon characters painted on the walls and windows in some areas. He could now hear the moans, cries, and chatter of other kids. The room was still big enough for Sam and Mia to stay in, which made James feel better about the move. Though James was healing fast, Mia was still wearing a sling for her broken arm. A fact that was raising many questions behind the scenes.

“I know you must be tired of being stuck in bed all the time.” said the doctor. “Well, here in the children's wing, we have a play room you can visit, if you feel up to it.”

“Oh?” asked James. It sounded like a lot of fun, especially compared to laying in bed. “Can I see?”

“Certainly.” said the doctor.

James got up on wobbly legs, taking a few steps. He now had on a hospital gown and some little socks that gripped the floor, in addition to his diaper. He still felt like he was walking with a lot of gravity pushing down on him, but he didn't let that stop him from trying to have some fun.

Sam and Mia smiled at his walking while also staying close by to make sure he wouldn't fall and hurt himself. Sam felt like it was watching him take his first steps, and felt a swelling of pride. Mia still thought he was cute, especially when seeing his bulky diaper from the rear, exposed under the hospital gown in back.

James felt more steady on his legs now, but walked like a young toddler due to weak legs and a bulky diaper. He saw other children, most of them older than him, also walking around in a gown and diaper. Some were being wheeled around in a fun looking plastic wagon. He followed the doctor, who led him into the play room. It was decorated like a daycare, with a colorful, soft foam floor, more painted walls, a small, plastic play set, and a box of various toys. There were only a few children inside playing, as most were in their rooms. James shyly made his way over to the toys and picked out a chunky toy airplane to play with. His legs were growing tired, so he sat down on the soft foam floor. He could feel his soft, bulky diaper cushion his seat a little, but he didn't mind. He played happily, having fun for the first time since he had been admitted.

“Would you watch him while I talk to the doctor Mia?” asked Sam.

“Oh, um, sure.” said Mia. She sat in a chair and watched James play, smiling at how happy he seemed to be.

Sam went over to talk to the doctor. “What have the tests said?” he asked.

“Well, they show that he is completely healthy for the most part.” said the doctor. “His bones have completely healed, as well as his internal injuries.” He looked over James's chart and then up at Sam. “I'll be straight with you. When he came in, we thought he wasn't going to make it. He had a lot of internal organ damage and punctures. He was also covered in that strange chemical that seemed to have burned his skin. We're still trying to figure out what it was. The company hauling it has been tight lipped about it though. When we cleaned it off of him, his skin started healing right away.”

“Do you think the chemical has sped up his body's natural healing abilities?” asked Sam.

“That's the working theory.” said the doctor. The two looked over at the little tyke playing with a few other kids. “While it does seem like a miracle, there's no knowing what, if any, other effects there may be. As his adoptive parent, I want you to keep an eye on him and report anything unusual right away.”

“Yeah, will do.” said Sam.

“I understand that you were the one who saved them both.” said the doctor.

“Yes, I saw the crash myself, and pulled over.” said Sam. It was a big mess. The car was on fire, and that chemical was everywhere. Strange that it only pooled around Sam and not the others. When I went up to the car, I saw the parents. The father was already dead, but the mother was still hanging on. She was pinned under debris and knew she wouldn't make it. Her only concern was for her kids. She told me to help them first, and not her. I tried, but she was pretty adamant about it. I pulled them free of the car and went back for her, but it was too late.”

“You're a hero.” said the doctor.

“Nah, a hero would have saved them all.” said Sam.

“You did what you could.” said the doctor. “Are you ever going to tell them?”

“Some day.” said Sam. “Not right now. They still need time.”

“That's understandable.” said the doctor. “At the rate he is healing, he should be okay to release within a couple of days. Are you ready to take them home?”

“Yeah, I have been returning home off and on for brief periods to get things ready.” said Sam.

“Good.” said the doctor. “The poor children have been through enough. It's time for them to get on with their lives.”

“I agree.” said Sam. “I just hope they'll be alright.”

The days passed and James's body healed quickly. Soon it was time for him and Mia to see their new home. To their surprise, it was a somewhat large house. It had two floors, and was painted grayish-blue and had a black roof. It also had a large front and back yard, complete with a large tree to climb, swings, a slide, and even a sand box. Sam had done the hard work and built everything himself. He had wanted children before, but he never thought it would happen quite like this.

“Come on up, I'll show you your rooms.” said Sam, climbing the stairs.

James and Mia followed, holding hands, in awe of the large house interior. When James saw his room, his eyes went wide. It was painted a light blue and had a hard wood floor. On the floor was a big play rug and another rainbow colored rug near his bed. He was surprised to see that he had a bright red race car bed that looked brand new. It had rails on the side that could be opened or removed. In the corner was a solitary wooden table with packages of diapers underneath. James knew what that was all too well. There were plush toys sitting on his bed, and a large colorful toy box at the foot of his bed. There was also a tall set of drawers for clothes, and a flat screen TV mounted on the wall. Connected to it was a video game console. “Oh wow!” he said excitedly.

“This is so cool!” said Mia. “I can't wait to see MY room.”

Sam smiled and chuckled a little. “I hoped you would like it.” he said. “There are a few toys in the toy box, but I'm sure we can fill it with more soon. Go ahead and check it out.”

James toddled over to the toy chest, his shoes squeaking on the floor, and opened it up. There were a few unopened toy vehicles, play sets, and small action figures inside. “Oh boy!” he said. “Look Mia!” He smiled and pulled out a Paw Patrol toy car.

“That's awesome James!” said Mia.

“Thank you!” said James, hugging Sam's legs.

“You're welcome sport.” said Sam, hugging him back gently. “Now lets go see your sister's room.” He smiled and led the two across the hall to another bedroom, all done up in pink, white, purple, and rainbows. The bed was made of wood, but had a carving of a unicorn on the head board that Sam had made himself. The curtains were a light purple color, and she had a nice view of the front yard. She too had some plush toys on her bed as well as some dolls on shelves and a nice, white, painted, wood vanity.

“Wow!” said Mia. “This is like Christmas!” She turned to Sam and hugged him. “Thank you!”

“You're welcome Mia.” said Sam, hugging her back.

“I'm gonna go pway!” said James, hurrying off to his room. He kicked off his shoes and grabbed some of his new toys, opening them up and taking them out. He happily played with them on his fun play rug while Mia played with her dolls.

Sam smiled, happy to see them playing in their new home. “Once you're ready, I can show you the back yard.” he said. The two children hopped up and joined Sam in the hallway, eager to see. He led them back downstairs and out of the sliding glass door in the back. Both of them smiled and giggled at the impressive setup. There was a large plastic swing set, a large plastic castle complete with slide, a wooden sandbox, and even a small above ground pool.

“Awesome!” said Mia.

“Wow, a pool!” said James. To him it was gigantic, and could have been an Olympic pool.

“Yeah!” said Mia. She climbed up the ladder to look into it. It was full of clear, cool water, and the blue lining made it look very inviting.

“You kids want to go for a swim?” asked Sam.

“Yeah!” both children cheered.

“Haha, well alright then!” said Sam. “Good thing I got some swim suits and swim diapers.”

“Oh boy!” said Mia. “I haven't been swimming in forever!”

“Me neither!” said James.

Sam took the kids inside and got them into their swim wear. He made sure to put small arm floats on James since he couldn't swim yet. Once ready, Mia helped him climb up. James was a little afraid to jump in at first, but when he saw Mia do it, he did too. The water rushed up around his head, some getting into his nose. His floats caused him to pop back up, and he shook his head, wiped his eyes, and giggled.

“It got up my nose!” said James. He kicked his little legs in the water, trying his best to swim.

Mia swam up to him and helped him. “Here, hold onto me.” she said.

James smiled and put his arms on Mia's shoulders, then held on as she swam around the pool. “Wheee!” he cheered.

Sam smiled and joined in with them, the only one big enough to touch the bottom and walk with his upper body above water. “Having fun?' he asked.

“Uh huh!” said James, kicking his feet in the water.

“Yeah!” said Mia.

“Maybe I can teach you to swim James.” said Sam.

“Sure!” said James.

“Okay, try swimming over to me.” said Sam.

James let go of Mia and held his arms out to his sides, then kicked his feet. He made a little progress, but not much.

“Try kicking a bit slower.” said Sam. “Move your arms like you're trying to pull and push the water away from you, front to back.”

James tried, but kept sinking. He would pop back up and shake his hair out. “I dunno if I can.” he said.

“It's okay.” said Sam. “Just keep trying. I know you can do it.”

James kept trying, and eventually improved, though still wasn't doing it quite right. Even so, he managed to make his way over to Sam.

“Atta boy!” said Sam, wrapping his arms around the small boy and giving him a hug. “You'll be swimming like a pro in no time.”

“Hehe, ya fink so?” asked James.

“Yep!” said Sam. He held James out and zoomed him around the pool. “Just like this. Vrrooooommm....”

James giggled and kicked his feet as Sam held him under his chest and tummy. “Wheee!” he squealed.

Mia watched and swam around in circles with them, having a good time, and happy to have this time together with James and their adoptive father. It was still odd to think of him as “dad.” He felt more like a fun uncle than anything, but that was good enough.

It took some time, but the children adjusted to their new lives, eventually going to school and meeting new people. There was something odd about James though. Even though time passed and his body healed, he seemed to never grow. Also, any time he got a cut or scrape, it would heal by the end of the day, nearly completely. The doctors were baffled, but agreed that it had something to do with the mysterious chemical.

On James's fifth birthday, Sam decided to measure him, and discovered that he hadn't grown at all. He reported it to the doctors, but nothing could be determined. Since he still had to wear diapers, he attended class for kids with special needs, but it was still in the same school building as all of the other kids. Thankfully Mia was also attending the school, and could see him at recess. James was still shy, since he was smaller than everyone in school and had to wear a diaper, but he still managed to make some friends who didn't mind. There were, however, the usual bullies.

One day, James was playing on the playground during recess, and his various running, jumping, and climbing had resulted in his shorts moving down and some could see the waist band of his diaper poking out.

“Hey look, that little kid wears diapers!” shouted an older boy with short black hair and a stout frame.

“He's so little!” said another kid. “He's like a baby!”

“Aww, he's so cute!” said a little girl. “Can we play house? You can be the baby.”

James just blushed at all of the comments and did his best to block them out. He tried to keep playing while ignoring him, but they found his small, diapered condition to be amusing, and kept heckling him. He decided to run over to the slides to try and get away from them, tugging his shorts up a little. Some of them followed though, and kept laughing.

“Baby need his diapie changed?” asked one of the bullies.

“Let's check the baby's diaper!” shouted another.

“N-no!” James squeaked. “Go away!” He squirmed and wiggled as his body betrayed him, and deposited a mess in his diaper. This only made the bullies even more emboldened.

“Oh man, he pooped his diaper!” shouted a large, stout kid.

“Gross!” said another. “Phew, I can smell it from here!”

Tears streaked down James's face and he kept running and hiding behind things until eventually he came across Mia.

“Stop picking on him you jerks!” shouted Mia, waving her fist at them. She wasn't the oldest one among them, but she was very protective and serious. She stepped in front of James and motioned for them to go. “Go away or I'm telling the teacher.”

“Ugh, stupid girl.” said the big bully, sulking away and kicking dirt.

“W-we just wanted to play.” said the little girl wanting to play house. “I'm sorry James.” She hugged the shivering little boy who was now sucking his thumb.

James blushed and looked at the little girl. She wasn't so little compared to him, but she did seem sincere with her apology. The stress had gotten to him, and he had reverted to a more toddler-like state. “Um, fanks.” he said.

“Aww, you sound like a baby too.” said the little girl. “So cute. See you later James.” She smiled at him, not intending to mock him with that comment, even if it came off that way.

Mia turned and checked on James. “You okay?” she asked.

“Uh huh.” said James, looking down at himself.

“Kind of smells like you had an accident.” asked Mia. “Do you need a change?”

James blushed and nodded. He knew when his diaper needed changing, but didn't always say so.

“Okay, come on.” said Mia. She took him by the hand and led him over to his teacher. “James needs a change.”

“Oh, he does?” asked the teacher. She patted James's diaper and checked him. “Thank you for letting me know. I'll take him to the change room.”

“Some kids were bullying him.” said Mia. “He's got a medial condition and can't help how he looks or when he needs to pee or poop. They shouldn't make fun of him for it.”

“I know.” the teacher sighed. “Sadly that seems to be common even among adults. Making fun of others for conditions they cannot help. I will discipline them, but I am not sure it will stick.”

“Well, please try and make sure no one bullies him for his condition.” said Mia.

“I will do my best.” said the teacher. She led James by the hand to the school nurse. “Excuse me, nurse? This little boy needs a diaper change. He's James, from the special needs class.”

“Oh my, he's a small one isn't he?” said the nurse, a tall woman with long red hair. She wore a plain white nurse's outfit and had her hair done up in a ponytail. “Well, I can certainly take care of that.”

James blushed as he was lifted up and placed onto a padded exam table. It had a long sheet of crinkly paper on it that could be easily replaced after anyone was seen about.

The nurse gently tugged down James's shorts and unfastened the tapes on his little Paw Patrol themed diaper. Next, she opened it and began cleaning him up. She gently lifted him by the ankles and wiped his bottom free of little brown clumps.

James blushed a little and looked around, being very used to diaper changes. Other than the nurse using cold wipes, he found that she was fast and gentle enough for him to remain comfortable. Once she had him all clean and diapered, his shorts were pulled back up and he was placed down on the floor.

“There you go.” said the nurse, washing her hands. “Now remember, if you need a change, just let your teacher know.”

“Okay.” said James. “Fank you.”

“You're welcome.” said the nurse.

“Okay, there's still a few minutes of recess left, so you can go back outside and play.” said the teacher, leading him back outside.

James looked around, unsure of what he wanted to play on. He wanted to avoid the older kids, especially the bullies. He decided to go over to where Mia was and play with her, but she was playing some kick ball with bigger, older kids. He sat and watched them while doodling in the dirt with a stick, wishing he were big enough to play.

School was just as boring for someone stuck as a four-year-old wearing diapers, but James learned quickly and was very smart. Only one or two other kids in his class wore diapers, but they were due to late potty training and learning disabilities. He felt out of place even here, being smarter than the others. The only problems he had were with his size and incontinence. Even so, he was kept in the special needs class all year. Sam argued that he wasn't learning enough in the special needs class, and that he should be allowed to attend the regular class in spite of his condition, so the following year, even though he still looked like a four-year-old and needed diapers, he attended the regular class. It was mainly the same, although he had to excuse himself for diaper changes. Every time he did, the class would snicker a bit, but they were only children after all. Things would continue on like this, with Mia frequently coming to his aid. Then one day, during one of his doctor appointments, James learned why.

“Well, it's taken a lot of time and effort, but we now know what has caused James's stunted growth.” said the doctor.

James sat on the exam table in just his diaper and socks for the exam. “Yeah?” he asked.

“That chemical that spilled on you in the accident.” said the doctor. “It was an illegal, toxic chemical a pharmaceutical company developed, designed to halt aging or even reverse it.”

“I knew it.” said Sam. “Those monsters were covering it up on purpose.”

“Yes, and apparently James wasn't the only one splashed with it.” said the doctor. “Also, some were illegally tested when they put it in the water supply of a small town.”

“That's awful!” said Mia. “Why would they do such a thing?”

“Money.” said the doctor. “Greed. The usual. Either way, they have been caught and now are settling with everyone. You should be getting a major settlement from them soon. That's the good news.”

“There's bad news?” asked Sam.

“Well, the bad news is as we feared.” said the doctor. “James will never grow up. He will always remain in the body of a four-year-old, since that is how he was when he was exposed to it.”

“Y-you mean I won't ever be a big boy?” asked James, tearing up a little and tugging at his shirt in frustration.

“I'm sorry son.” said the doctor.

“Aww, James, you are a big boy.” said Sam, hugging him closely. “You've been so brave and smart. Just because your body is small doesn't mean your character is. You're big on the inside. That's what counts.”

“I don't wanna wear diapers anymore!” shouted James. He cried and rubbed his face in Sam's shirt.

Mia came over and hugged James as well, patting him on the back and sniffling. “It'll be okay James.” she said. “We'll help you.”

“Is there any hope doc?” asked Sam.

“Well, his nerves were severed in the accident.” said the doctor. “His body healed everything else, but as you know, nerves are a different matter. I wouldn't dismiss the possibility that some day his body may restore them, but every exam and x-ray we have done on him shows that they have not regrown or changed at all since that day.”

“Well, we can hope.” said Sam. He lifted James's head and looked into his puffy, reddened face. “Never give up hope champ.

“O-okay...” said James, wiping his tears with his sleeves.

The doctor gave James a tissue to blow his nose with. “We will continue to monitor him and run tests.” he said. He held a jar of colorful lollipops in front of him. “Go ahead and take two.”

James blew his nose, then picked out two lollipops. After unwrapping one and sticking it in his mouth, he felt a little better.

After that, James was determined to lose his diapers at some point in his little life. One day he was at home playing when his diaper began to itch. He kept trying to scratch, but the diaper was too thick. He stood and grumbled, then yanked his shorts down and removed his diaper. He sighed happily and scratched, then thought for a moment. He smiled and slid his shorts back up without putting his diaper back on. He kicked his diaper away and kept playing in his room. However, soon he felt a warmth running down his legs. He blushed and looked down to see a dark wet spot growing across the front of his little Spongebob shorts. It ran down his legs and into his socks, darkening them as well before making a puddle under his feet. His face turned red and he reached down, trying to stop it with his hands, but only made his hands wet. Just then, Sam happened to walk in to check on him.

“James are you-” said Sam, suddenly stopping when he saw the puddle and wetness flowing down James's legs. “Oh no! Did your diaper leak?! Hold on!” He scooped up the little boy and rushed him to the bathroom where he held him over the toilet. He pulled his shorts down and saw that there was no diaper. Instead, the little stream tinkled down into the toilet below. “You took it off?”

James nodded and started to cry.

“Aww, son...” said Sam. He let James finish going before cleaning him up and tossing his wet clothes in the hamper. He ran a bath for him and gave him a big hug. “I know you don't want to wear your diapers, but you have to, okay? You see what happens when you don't. You don't want that to happen at school do you?”

“N-no...” said James, whimpering and sniffling.

Sam picked him up and placed him in the tub, then proceeded to give him a nice bubble bath. “It's okay that you wear diapers.” he said. “There's no shame in it. You can't help it. It's not your fault.”

“I know, but they get itchy sometimes.” said James, still sniffling a bit, but calming down. “Kids make fun...”

“Some do, but they don't understand.” said Sam. “They have to be taught right from wrong. They have to learn. Some day people won't give you such a hard time about it.”

“They won't?” asked James.

“They shouldn't.” said Sam, washing him from head to toe. “Although they may just think you are still potty training. This sort of thing doesn't happen to people, so they may not understand at first either. That's why we have to let them know that their actions and words are hurtful and not helpful.”

James nodded, trying to play with a toy submarine in the tub. “I'll never be an adult.” he said.

“In terms of years lived on this Earth you will.” said Sam. “It's just that your body won't reflect that. You're a smart boy. You're so brave and clever. You will show them all some day.”

James nodded and smiled a little, splashing a bit in the tub. “I'll show em I'm smart!” he said. “I'll make something better than diapers just for people like me!”

“That's the spirit son.” said Sam.

James just smiled at the encouragement. It bothered him that Sam called him son at first, but now it was felling more and more right. He still didn't like his diapers, but it was better than wet clothes and urine on the floor.

Mia had seen what happened and cleaned up the mess on the floor. She then brought a fresh diaper to the bathroom. “Here you go.” she said.

“Thank you Mia.” said Sam. “Always so helpful.” He smiled and finished bathing James, then rinsed him off and plucked him from the tub. He dried him off in a fluffy, dry towel and then carried him into his bedroom. He sat down on the boy's bed and held him in his lap. “You're a good boy James.”

“I am?” asked James, looking up at Sam.

“Of course.” said Sam, smiling down at James. “Since you've been good, I'll make a deal with you. Sometimes when we're at home, after you've had a diaper change, I'll let you wear some cloth training pants.”

“Ya will?!” asked James, all excited for the promotion.

“I will.” said Sam. “That way even if you do have an accident, it won't be as bad. Of course, those won't be enough for school or when leaving the house, but here, for a short time, they should be okay.”

“Oh boy!” said James. He smiled and clapped his little hands.

“Haha, that's better.” said Sam. “It makes me so happy when you're happy.”

“Hehe, I'm gonna wear big boy undies!” said James.

“Yep, very soon.” said Sam, beeping him on the nose. “But for now, lets get you back in a nice, dry diaper.”

“Okay!” said James. He smiled as he was laid down on his bed. Sam blew raspberries on his tummy, making him giggle and squirm, being a little playful before re-diapering him and getting him ready for bed.

Sam was true to his word, and let James wear cloth training pants every now and then. Of course, there were the occasional accidents in them, but it was to be expected. Life went on, and James stayed the same age while his friends grew and grew. On his seventh birthday, he invited a few friends over for a small party. It was a little strange seeing a four-year-old playing around with a bunch of seven-year-olds, but they didn't mind. Everyone knew about his condition now and it was no longer a surprise to anyone. Although there was a bit of a misunderstanding when it came to the parents, as they had picked out some toddler toys for him as gifts. While it was embarrassing, James accepted them with gratitude, having been taught good manners by Sam. He knew that not everyone would understand, and that sometimes there would be slip ups like this. He knew that drawing attention to it or making a fuss would only make things worse, so he pretended to like the chunky action play sets. While eating some cake, one of his friends became curious.

“So um, what's it like being little?” asked a boy with short brown hair, wearing a pair of overalls and an orange shirt.

James chewed and swallowed his cake, then spoke. “It's no fun.” he said. “I'd rather be big like you.”

“Why?” asked the boy. “It's not so much fun being big either.”

“It's not?” asked James.

“Nu uh, least not for me.” said the boy. “I always gotta do hard chores or do things I don't want when I'd rather just play.”

“Um, sometimes dad asks me to clean up my room.” said James. “I can do that.”

“Yeah, but can you mow the lawn or pick up heavy stuff?” asked the boy.

“N-no...not really.” said James.

“It's no fun.” said the boy. “Sometimes I wish I could be little again.”

“I'll trade places with you.” said James. “If I could.”

“Haha, that would be interesting.” said the boy. “You're a fun friend to have.”

“Thanks!” said James, finishing his cake. “I hope we can stay friends forever!”

“Me too!” said the boy, having some cake of his own. In truth, he was having a rough childhood, having to pick up the slack of a missing dad and caring for a younger sibling. While there are some people in the world who would be glad to have James's condition, it is only because they have lived a “normal” life in the first place. James had yet to experience what most people do, and likely never would.

During his graduation ceremony from primary to elementary school, James was dressed in a bit of a baggy, black gown and mortar board. It was a cute little ceremony that didn't really need to happen, but James enjoyed anything that meant he was getting older. Though he looked extremely cute, like a shrunken college graduate, he marched across the stage with pride to accept his diploma. However, his foot caught the hem of his gown, causing him to trip and tumble forward. His gown pulled up, and his diapered bottom was on display for everyone. The crowd erupted with laughter, and many parents “Awww”-ing at the sight. James, hot with embarrassment, got up and took his diploma, then ran off stage in tears. Sam and Mia ran to meet him off stage in the rear of the auditorium.

“Awww, it's okay James.” said Sam, hugging his little boy.

“Please don't cry.” said Mia, hugging him too.

James tried not to wail, but tears were streaming down his face. His diaper grew warm, which only made him more upset. He tossed his diploma down on the floor. “I'll never be a big boy!” he shouted, clinging to his family.

“Sure you will.” said Sam. “Shhh, it's okay. Accidents happen. People laughed, but they don't mean to insult you. They just thought you were really cute.”

“I don't wanna be cute.” said James, shoving his thumb in his mouth and pouting.

“W-well, sometimes you are.” said Mia, being honest. She was now ten, and much bigger than James, which made it more fun to snuggle him. She did frequently find him cute, and snuggled with him on the couch, even if he squirmed and tried to get away.

“Jus dun say it to my fwiends.” said James, slipping into his toddler talk due to the stress.

“Don't worry.” said Mia. “I won't say a word.”

“Now, lets get you home and into some comfy, dry underwear.” said Sam, patting his son on the back.

James nodded and hiccuped a little, walking to the car with them, thumb in mouth.

Once home, Sam helped James get clean again, and allowed him to wear some soft, cloth training pants. The little boy curled up on the couch with his bunny plush, soon to be snuggled by Mia. Her presence and comfort always made him feel better.

As time went on, the bullying continued, but was less and less, since James's condition had made national headlines. “The Boy Who Can't Grow Up” they all said. Sam was asked multiple times by reporters if they could interview James, but he always turned them down.

“He's just a child.” he would say. “Leave him alone. He's been through enough.”

It was nearly James's tenth birthday, and to celebrate, Sam wanted to take him and Mia to an amusement park. To start the day, he had made James a cake, and decorated it with his favorite character, Spongebob.

“Alright kids, breakfast!” announced Sam, awaiting his kids.

Mia woke and went to check on James, as she usually did. It had become almost routine now as she felt the need to take care of him in an almost motherly way over time. She grew and got bigger, but he always remained the small toddler he was. Every morning, he would always need a change when first waking up, and then again around lunch, and maybe one more before school was out, then a few while home.

James woke up in his small toddler bed. It was shaped like a red race car, but had adjustable rails on the side to keep him from rolling out while sleeping. He still occasionally had nightmares about the accident, which would often result in him waking up screaming and crying, in need of a change. Sam had no problems taking care of it, but there were times that Mia stepped in to help. James yawned and stretched, then sat up. He could feel that he needed a fresh diaper, and got out of his bed. His diaper drooped low between his legs, and stretched his Spongebob pajama pants a bit. He sighed and slid them down, then heard his door open. He turned and saw Mia standing there, and smiled. “Good morning Mia.” he said, still having his small toddler voice, but now speaking more eloquently.

“Morning James.” said Mia, walking in wearing her own pink heart pajamas. “Need some help?”

“Uh, yeah.” said James. “Please.” He turned and sat back on his bed, then laid down. He wasn't embarrassed nor upset about it anymore, as he knew of no other way to be.

Mia went about changing James's diaper, humming as she did. It was something she remembered their mom doing, and found that it helped James to relax. Once she had him all clean and padded, she helped him up and gave him a big hug. “Come on, lets go eat.” she said.

“Yeah!” said James. “Thanks Mia!” He smiled and hugged his big sister back. She was twelve now, nearly thirteen, and going through a growth spurt. She seemed to be more and more mature every day, and she was the apple of his eye. The two headed down to the kitchen and smiled when they saw a big yellow cake with ten lit candles on it, sitting on the table.

Sam began to sing happy birthday to James as soon as the two walked in, even putting a party hat on him. Mia also joined in singing and Sam lifted James up into his booster seat at the table.

James smiled and blushed a little at all the fuss and attention, but once the song stopped, he made a wish and blew out the candles. It was always the same wish, to grow up, but he wasn't sad when it never came true.

Sam cut a big slice and put it onto a plate in front of James. “Okay, dig in sport.” he said.

James smiled and ate with his bare hands, as he usually did on his birthday, making a big mess with the frosting and soft, sweet cake.

Sam smiled and snapped a picture of him with a messy face. One more to add to the photo album.

James giggled and held his frosting covered hands out for the picture.

“I think you got more of it on you than in you.” said Mia, smiling and wiping his face and hands.

“So long as you enjoyed it.” said Sam. He gave James a small cup of cold milk to drink. “Might want to wash it down with something.” He smiled and ruffled James's hair.

James drank from the cup and smiled. “Thank you both!” he said. “I always try so hard to be a big boy, but sometimes part of me just wants to cut loose.”

“It's fine son.” said Sam. “It's your birthday, so you can enjoy it however you want.”

“Yeah!” said James, eating more cake.

After everyone ate some breakfast and got dressed, Sam packed a small backpack with extra diapers, wipes, powder, and some spare clothing for James just in case. James was dressed in his favorite Spongebob shirt and shorts, and even had some small light up sneakers. He was placed into his car seat, as usual, and given his bunny plush to snuggle. Though it had been years since the accident, he was still a bit uneasy about riding in cars. It was a safe and uneventful trip to the amusement park, and once they got there they stood in line for tickets.

“One adult and two children please.” said Sam at the ticket booth.

“If he is four or under, he gets in for free.” said the ticket taker.

“Oh, he's ten actually.” said Sam.

The ticket taker blinked and did a double take. They had heard about a little boy who didn't age. “Oh wow, it's you!” they said. “You could sneak him in for free if you wanted.” They just laughed and printed up the tickets.

“Yeah, but it wouldn't be right.” said Sam. He paid for the tickets and smiled down at Sam and Mia.

“Thank you!” said the ticket taker.

“You're welcome!” said Sam. “Have a nice day.”

They headed into the park and looked around at all of the fun rides and attractions. There were so many people walking around happily and having a good time. Mia saw several rides that she wanted to go on, but knew that James would be too small for them. She walked along while holding his hand, and Sam holding his other hand.

James smiled and swung his hands happily while they were being held by his two most favorite people in the world. They strolled up to a fun-looking ride that looked like a boat, swinging back and forth. “Oooh, what about this one?” he asked.

“Oh, I don't know kiddo.” said Sam. “That one has a height requirement. Better make sure.”

James went over and stood in front of the measurement marker, and found that he was just a couple of inches too short for the ride. He frowned and walked away from it. “Aw man...” he said.

“Don't worry James.” said Mia. “I'm sure they have plenty of stuff you can ride.”

“Yeah, all baby stuff.” said James. He sulked and kicked his feet a little as he walked.

“Well, what's wrong with that?” asked Sam. “They're still rides right? Besides, it's not like anyone would think twice if you were riding them.”

“Unless someone from school sees me.” said James. “I'm tired of being made fun of.”

“Aww, I know.” said Mia, kneeling down to him. “But you can still ride the Ferris wheel and carousel with me and Sam.

“Oh yeah!” said James. “Those are fun...but I want you to have fun too.”

“Today is your day.” said Mia. “Come on, let's ride something.”

“Okay, lets ride the Ferris wheel first!” said James. He happily walked over to the ride, hand in hand with Mia and Sam, crinkling in his bulky diaper and with his shoes blinking red lights in back with each step. They waited in line and finally got on, then began to ride. James looked out and around at everything while high up, enjoying the view a lot. He kicked his feet happily as he looked around at all of the rides and things going on. Everyone looked so small from up here, and it made him feel a bit bigger.

Sam made sure to take a picture of James while he was enjoying himself, happy to see his boy happy.

Next, James picked out a small ride with spinning apples, but only he and Mia were small enough to ride it. Sam was okay waiting, since he took some pictures of the two having fun together.

On the ride was a wheel the two could grab and turn, making the ride spin. Mia smiled and grabbed it, spinning faster and faster. The two kids smiled and giggled, having such fun on the little kid ride. However, soon James began to feel queasy from all of the spinning. His head felt light and his vision blurred a bit. He felt a bit hot and sweaty, and felt the cake he ate earlier trying to come back up.

Mia noticed James getting quiet and saw the expression on his face. She immediately stopped spinning the ride and put her arm around him. “Ooops, sorry James!” she said. “I didn't mean to spin it so fast.”

James just groaned a little and waited for the ride to be over. Once it was, he stumbled out of it a bit uneasy. Mia had to help guide him over to the exit.

Sam noticed and came running over. “Everything okay?” he asked. “James, what's wrong?”

James looked up at Sam and then suddenly barfed up some of his cake. As he did, he also had a bit of an accident in the rear of his diaper.

“Oh, uh oh...” said Sam. He helped James to a restroom, where he took him inside for a change. “It's okay James. At least you didn't get your clothes messy.”

James moaned and blushed, wiping his mouth with his hand. “Sorry.” he said.

“It's okay.” said Sam. “Come on, lets get you cleaned up.” He pulled down the changing table from the wall and sterilized it with a sanitary wipe, then picked up James and laid him down on it. He tugged down the boy's shorts to get at his diaper, then opened it. “Better out than in right?”

James blushed an nodded, but smiled a little, being reminded of a movie he liked about a big green ogre. Before long, Sam had him all clean and in a fresh diaper. Then they both washed up and rejoined Mia, who had taken the time to use the restroom herself.

“Feel better James?” asked Mia.

“Uh huh.” said James. “I just need to sit down for a bit.”

“Sure thing.” said Mia. She held his hand and walked with him over to a bench where he could sit down. She kept looking on at various rides that she wanted to go on.

James could tell that she really wanted to ride something. “You can go on a ride while I wait.” said James.

“Are you sure?” asked Mia.

“Yeah.” said James. “Go on. Have fun.”

“Okay, thanks James.” said Mia. She got up and went over to a roller coaster she had been eyeing that went around in loops. It was something James could definitely not ride.

Sam stayed with James while Mia went on the ride. He looked over at a stand selling lemonade right near by. “How about a lemonade kiddo?” he asked. “Maybe it'll help your tummy.”

“Oh, okay, sure.” said James. He sat and watched as Sam went over and bought a few cups of cold, refreshing lemonade, then came back over.

“Here you go.” said Sam, sitting down next to James and handing him a cup with a straw in it.

“Thanks.” said James. He smiled and sipped on the sweet, cold beverage while waiting for Mia. It did help his stomach to have some liquid in it, and he leaned back on the bench with Sam.

Sam put his arm around James and slurped on his own lemonade while watching Mia ride the roller coaster. He could hear her screams and squeals as she went around the loops. “Hope those are happy screams.” he said.

“They are.” James giggled. He knew when his sister was having fun.

Mia got off the ride, a little wobbly, but happy, then made her way over to James and Sam.

“Was it fun?” asked Sam, giving her a cup of lemonade.

“Yeah it was!” said Mia. “Thanks!” She took the lemonade and sipped on it. “Aahhh...”

“Hehe, it looked fun.” said James. “I think my tummy is all better now.” He smiled and stood, finishing off his small cup of lemonade.

“What do you want to ride next?” asked Mia.

“Hmmm, that!” said James, pointing at a small roller coaster in the shape of a dragon. It was meant for toddlers, but he didn't care. He just wanted to ride something.

“Okay!” said Sam. “Lets go!” He walked with James and Mia over to the ride and helped him get into it. After he and the other tots were secure, the ride began, and it went around and around. It went surprisingly fast for a ride meant for toddlers, but James liked it. He waved at Sam and Mia as he passed by them over and over.

Sam smiled and took more pictures. “Looks like he's enjoying it.” he said.

“Yeah, but I still wish he could ride the big kid rides with me.” said Mia.

“There are still a few more rides he can ride with you.” said Sam. “Soon, you'll be too big for them though. Better enjoy it while you can.”

“Good idea.” said Mia. She smiled at her little brother as he rode the fun dragon ride. When he was done, she met up with him along with Sam.

“How was it?” asked Sam.

“It was fun!” said James. “Now I want to ride that one!” He pointed to a log flume ride.

“Oh, that looks like fun.” said Mia.

“It's only for kids, but you two should fit fine.” said Sam. He walked the two kids over to the ride and watched as Mia helped James into a seat.

Mia got in next to James and held onto the bar as the ride started. It crept slowly up hill, with some water rushing by.

“Oooh, it's going so high!” said James.

“Yeah it is!” said Mia. “It's exciting!”

“Oh! Here we go!” said James. He smiled and squealed as the log ride went down a steep incline. The water rushed around them, and they went into a tunnel that looked like a cave, then around a few turns kind of fast. “Whoa! Wheee!”

“This is fun!” said Mia. Up ahead she spotted what looked like a splash zone. “Uh oh...”

“Huh?” asked James. Then he saw it too. “Oh.” The ride splashed down, and the two kids, along with everyone else on the ride, got splashed with water. The ride soon came to an end, and the two kids got out, soaked but giggling.

Sam saw and smiled. He could see that James's diaper was soaked and drooping. “Heheh, looks like that was a wet one.” he said.

“Yeah it was.” said James. “But that's okay.” He looked down at himself and tugged his shorts up, along with his diaper. “I think I need a new diaper though.”

“No problem kiddo.” said Sam. “I brought some extra clothes just in case.”

“What about me?” asked Mia.

“You can dry out in the sun for a bit.” Sam joked. “Or we can find you something to wear in the gift shop.

“Ooh, okay!” said Mia. She waited for Sam to get James changed, then the group went into the gift shop. She smiled and picked out a fun pink shirt with a rainbow on it, and a pair of purple shorts.

James spotted some fun toys he wanted. “Ooh, can I have one of those?” he asked, pointing to an action figure.

“Sure thing sport.” said Sam. “It's your birthday after all.”

“Awesome!” said James. He happily grabbed the action figure and held it close until they checked out.

With bags of merch, the happy little family made their way over to a restaurant to eat. Sam made sure to get James a booster seat so he could sit at the table.

James sat with Sam and Mia, and happily ate some chicken fingers and fries, along with a small soda. They all felt like a happy family, and loved each other very much.

After they were finished eating, James suggested one more ride. They went over to the carousel.

“I wanna ride one of the big unicorns!” said James.

“Okay bud!” said Sam, picking him up and placing him on it. He fastened a small belt around his waist so that he wouldn't fall, but also stood with him while Mia got on a pink horse next to him. The ride started and the music played as the horses went around and around, up and down.

James wished this moment could last forever, like his youth. He would forever cherish it, along with his sister and new father.

It was the end of the day now, and James was very tired. Sam lifted him up and let him sit on his shoulders as they walked through the park. James let out a yawn and looked around from atop his giant daddy. He held onto his head and smiled, leaning forward sleepily.

“Thank you for the fun birthday daddy.” said James.

Sam smiled happily, being called 'daddy' by the little boy. “You're welcome son.” he said. He held onto the little boy's legs and walked with Mia out of the park and to the car. By the time they got there, James was fast asleep, so Sam gently put him into his car seat and fastened him in. They had a nice, quiet, safe trip home, and would live happily together, no matter how long James remained in a tiny toddler body. Life had more in store for the little boy who couldn't grow up, but as long as he had his loving sister and father with him, he would always be happy.

The End