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Shadow is the only one who can care for Sonic, so he moves in with his rival. He finds out Shadow has unusual techniques to help him recover. ","count":"5","submission_left_submission_id":"2856924","submission_left_file_name":"4248560_TheEccentricNomad_4_new_crib.rtf"}],"description":"Sonic and Shadow have a talk.","description_bbcode_parsed":"Sonic and Shadow have a talk.","writing":"*Hey everyone, before we get into the next chapter, I want to give y'all a little update. So recently a new exciting development has come into my life...I have a boyfriend!\n\nFor those of you who have dated before, you know how exciting this can be and how much time it can eat up in your day. I wanted to let y'all know cause if I start posting less, blame dating 😅 I won't stop altogether; I promise you that, but with less time to write means it takes longer before a chapter is ready to be posted.\n\nI apologize in advance for the change of posting schedule, which is now \"whenever,\" but it is what it is ️, and I hope you guys will be patient with me as I navigate this new experience in my life and try to prepare to tell him about my Little side in the coming months. Wish me luck that it all goes smoothly and hopefully I'll talk with you all again soon!*\n\nTw: Emotional talk and crying. P.O.V. changes later in the chapter.\n\nTo say the next few weeks went smoothly would greatly exaggerate how well Sonic and Shadow did not get along.\n\nAfter Sonic spent the first day reflecting upon Shadow's \"intentions\" that have led to his predicament and seeing the Ultimate Lifeform fulfilling such intentions as he had explained. The blue blur resolved to do his best each day to make Shadow's job as difficult and fur-pulling frustrating as possible without hurting himself more in the hopes that his rival would give up.\n\nThough there were a couple of times, Sonic pushed himself too far, wiggling, strained his lower back, and hurt like a bitch. Not to mention accidentally bumping one of his casts while being carried was never a pleasant surprise. He got tired quickly, too, as the pain medicine and the after-effects from anesthesia still plagued him, which could last for months.\n\nFor his efforts, the blue blur was often subjected to a light spanking, timeout in the crib, or privileges taken away, restricting his already limited freedom.\n\nStill, Sonic continued to test Shadow's patience, the dark hog almost losing it several times during a few of the blue hedgehog's temper tantrums for having to use a bottle instead of a cup, being pushed to use the pacifier when he slept, or something else babyish that he was forced to do or use. After punishing Sonic, sometimes the Ultimate Lifeform would have to walk away or step out of the house for a few minutes to calm down to keep from Chaos Blasting the brat into oblivion. That always made the blue blur proud, even if it came with the price of being extra tired. (It was not guilt!)\n\nBut such violence from the black hog would ultimately defeat the purpose of this babying charade; Shadow sensed that Maria would be disappointed if he gave in to such impulses.\n\nYet there were a couple of bright spots of peace behind all of their arguments, shouting matches, aggravated attitudes, complaints, and fights.\n\nShadow would reward Sonic with an extra dessert or delayed bedtime if he had been less disobedient that day. Sonic saying a meaningful thank you or apology. Every few days, Shadow would find the blue blur playing with the baby toys when he thought he wasn't being watched, babbling away like a toddler absorbed in their game. The warm feelings Sonic experienced every day when Shadow changed his bandages and diapers or washed him with a gentle touch and reassurance at bath times with utmost care. During the early mornings, Shadow would tiptoe into the nursery, watching Sonic sleep in his crib, unconsciously sucking his thumb when the pacifier fell out and clinging to his soft baby blanket.\n\nNeither wanted to admit that, surprisingly, there was something about this babying experience they were both starting to enjoy. Heaven forbid that they admit this to the other, and such thoughts were banished during the daylight hours, but at night, alone in their respective beds, the recollections and emotions that were pushed away during the day would return in full force.\n\nShadow experienced protective urges and the almost overwhelming desire to pick up, cuddle, and coo at his rival whenever those big sparkly gem-like eyes looked up at him without hostility. Or when Sonic looked cute, wearing a babyish outfit, and blushed in embarrassment. Those instincts that had briefly emerged when Sonic was first injured grew exponentially as Shadow felt drawn more and more to get closer to his rival.\n\nThe Ultimate Lifeform couldn't deny that he enjoyed babying Sonic. How innocent he seemed in the diapers and when asleep. All those times, he caught a glimpse of a smile or a giggle from the blue hog when he thought Shadow wasn't paying attention. Or when Sonic's reaction or expressions were so cute, it made his heart want to burst out of his chest; the dark hog wanted to see and feel more of that. He wanted to make Sonic smile, giggle, and look at him in adoration.\n\nImages passed in his mind of Sonic crawling to him and asking to play, running away from Shadow in a game of tag, giggling till he had the most adorable sounding hiccups. They plagued his mind before going to sleep each night. It scared and hurt Shadow's heart as he realized how much he wanted this to be real and not some teachable punishment that Sonic resented him for.\n\nWhile Shadow was contemplating the reasons behind this sudden infliction of what he would soon realize were parental instincts. Sonic was freaking out for a different reason in his head.\n\nThe baby treatment and the reasoning behind it frankly pissed him off; he thought it was stupid that he was being treated like this when A) he was not a hoglet and B) had risked his own damn life to save them all again from Eggman's plot. Being punished for doing what he thought he needed to do to protect everyone made no sense in his mind.\n\nSo he fought; just because Shadow could overpower him now doesn't mean Sonic couldn't make his life difficult. The blue blur bit punched, kicked, screamed, and fought every chance he got to ensure that self-centered emo prick knew how much he hated this.\n\nThe subsequent timeouts, loss of toys he didn't 'care for,' tv time, sweets, and bare-bottomed spankings did not deter him!\n\nHowever, there were days when Sonic was just too tired or in pain to give the fight his all and would comply with being babied. Those days were arguably more pleasant. He would get a cookie or milkshake after dinner, a few more minutes of tv time, or get to stay up longer than 10 pm. Sometimes if the weather was just right on those days, Shadow would pull out the lawn chair and let him sunbathe for a glorious hour in the privacy of his backyard. During those days, Sonic found the baby treatment nice and would secretly play with the toys Shadow had gotten for him.\n\nThough he told himself he only did this when he was bored out of his mind and for no other reason!\n\nEverything was so much better during those days when he backed down; Shadow was more prone to smile, which Sonic always liked to see. It fit the dark hog's face better than his ordinary glare ever did.\n\nIt made the guilt in Sonic's belly sour and roll as if he had food poisoning because even on the days the blue blur fought Shadow with all his might, the dark hog didn't deviate from how he treated him. Shadow always ensured he took his medicine, was well fed and clean, bandages were changed on time, and never sat around in a wet diaper long enough for the warmth afterward to fade away.\n\nAll the care and attention made the emotion and warmth he would find in Shadow's eyes impossible to ignore. As the weeks went by, Sonic found an increased frequency of longing and desire for something from him in those red eyes that made the blue blur's insides squirm and his cheeks beet red. As if Shadow knew something about himself that he didn't know or was hiding and wanted so badly to help bring it out, encouraging him to let it go by the pleading look in his eyes\n\nHis guilt for causing Shadow such troubles morphed into a developing interest as to why the dark hog would go to such great lengths to make a point. Was there a point? Why all the effort? Did Shadow really care about him as something more than a rival, or was he imagining it?\n\nSonic well knew why he was staying with the Ultimate Lifeform, but were the motivations for taking him in not of begrudging obligation but of actual want?\n\nThe more Sonic thought about this, the more he let go of his grudge and allowed Shadow to care for him to see if all the little glimpses of tender affection and fondness really was in his imagination.\n\nWithin a month, Shadow's almost everyday battle with the blue blur completely stopped; it bewildered the ebony hog. He thought Sonic would fight him for much longer before giving in; the change was suspicious.\n\nYet Sonic's demeanor changed too gradually for it to be a ploy to lull him into a false sense of security. Shadow found himself conflicted, weary that the blue blur was trying to pull a trick on him but also hopeful that maybe his plan was working.\n\nShadow opens his eyes to the ceiling of his dark room; without looking at the clock, he can tell that it is an early hour, just before dawn. Decades of rigorous early schedules giving him the ability to start his days extra early, not to mention having the energy to do so, another benefit of being the Ultimate Lifeform.\n\nRolling off the bed, he yawns and stretches before getting up and heading for the bathroom, turning the shower on at its hottest temperature. Briefly testing the water, he jumps in, wetting his fur and scrubbing down a large dollop of shampoo through his arms, legs, head, and chest.\n\nLet's see today...Sonic has an appointment with the doctor. But that won't be until later this afternoon, so he has time to eat and have some playtime. I should bathe him before we go since it's been a couple of days. We're running low on essentials, so we'll have to make a stop at the market and pick up some snacks while we're at it. Maybe since he's been such a good baby of late, I could let him pick out a new toy, or we could get some ingredients for cupcakes as a reward?\n\nShadow pauses his scrubbing, surprised by how parental the last thoughts are. Do I really want to reward him for just doing as I say though? Yes, Sonic has been obedient, but that doesn't mean he agrees or understands the purpose of all of this. He throws away every other toy I give him...then again, I have found him playing with a few when he thinks I'm not around. Maybe if I let him pick the toy, he'll be more likely to play?\n\nWhat am I thinking? With a sigh, he turns off the water and grabs a towel patting himself down and reevaluating his plan. I can't keep thinking of that annoying little prickle hog as a child; doing so doesn't make any sense if we keep running around in circles between our bickering and the real issue. I can't keep daydreaming about treating him even more like a hoglet. The point of this is to make that hedgehog grow up a bit more, not less. Sigh, I need to talk with him.\n\nStepping out of the shower, the dark hog opens his mirror cabinet and grabs his quill comb and gel. Quickly drying the rest of his fur Shadow drops the towel in the laundry bin and dips the teeth of the comb in the gel; then, with sweeping motions, he combs the fur and quills surrounding his head into his signature style.\n\nOnce finished, he brushes his teeth and puts on a clean pair of socks and gloves, stepping into his hover skate shoes before heading down to make breakfast.\n\nScrabbling up a good portion of eggs, fried bacon, toast, juice, and milk, Shadow sets the table and then goes to the nursery to wake his charge. When he enters, a pleasant smile creeps up on his face seeing Sonic laid out on his belly, fists clutching the soft duckling baby blanket he had become attached to, and lazily sucking on the pacifier. Stepping to the window, Shadow opens the curtains letting the morning light in, and unlocks the crib bars picking up Sonic, gently bouncing and rubbing his back, encouraging him to wake up.\n\nThe blue blur groans, pacifier falling as he yawns and rubs his eyes, \"Morning, sweetie. Did you sleep well?\" Sonic answers with a grunt, not happy to be woken up. Swaying side to side, Shadow pats his bottom a little more firmly, checking the diaper for wetness, which it is. The blue hedgehog groans muttering a \"Fine...\" assenting to the change.\n\nShadow kisses Sonic's temple, whispering, \"Good boy.\" and lays him on the changing table. Switching directions to the closet, the Ultimate Lifeform picks out one of the less childish outfits, laying it next to the sleepy blue blur's head, then begins the diaper change.\n\n\"So-\" Sonic begins, interrupted by one last jaw-cracking yawn, \"Today we're going out, huh?\" Shadow hums, throwing away the dirty diaper and putting a new one on, \"What led you to that conclusion?\" he asks, and Sonic points to the plain shirt and khaki shorts beside his head, \"You only let me wear non-childish clothes when we're going out, which I appreciate, by the way. This is humiliating enough as it is.\"\n\n\"You're welcome. Legs up, please,\" he instructs, pulling up the shorts to Sonic's waist, \"Now sit up. You know I'm not doing this to humiliate you.\" Shadow says, tugging down the shirt. The blue blur looks at him, skeptical \"That's what you've said, but I don't know how much I believe it?\"\n\nLooks like we're going to have this conversation early. Shadow muses before replying, \"Well, if I really did wish to humiliate you, I would be much more open about babying you, and all of your friends would be aware. However, I have not told anyone, and as you pointed out, I make sure not to dress you as young as I normally do when we go out.\" now that his rival was dressed, he picks Sonic up and carries him to the kitchen, placing the blue blur in the highchair and locking the tray in. \"That's true.\" the blue hog relents, thanking Shadow for his food and digging in, \"I know you've told me why you're doing this. But I still don't get it? Why go to all the trouble?\"\n\nThe Ultimate Lifeform sits by his plate and fiddles with his fork, lips pressed, still unsure how best to explain to the blue hog in a convincing way that his life is valuable not as a hero but as a person. Their first conversation, more like an argument, didn't go well, and neither have the subsequent others following it. Turning into more screaming matches than calm discussions, Yet Shadow was determined, even if it took Sonic's entire stay for him to get the message.\n\nThe dark hog is quiet for so long Sonic thinks Shadow has ignored his question, jumping and almost dropping his plastic fork when Shadow says slowly, \"...I realize I may not have made myself clear. I'm only trying to get you to see that you place your life at risk when it may not be necessary much too often.\"\n\nThe blue blur rolls his eyes, tired of hearing this same argument come up again. \"You do get that I'm like the protector of Mobius, right?\"\n\n\"Yes.\" Shadow agrees, sipping his coffee, \"But you're not the only one.\"\n\nThe silence that follows that statement cuts through the atmosphere like a knife; the blue blur gaps at the ebony hog with a mouth full of toast, \"What?!\" he chokes at the shocking news.\n\nShadow analyzes Sonic's reaction seeing that every bit of his expression shows pure astonishment. His eyes narrow at the hedgehog, \"Sonic...you didn't think you were the only one who made it their duty to safeguard Mobius, right?\" Shadow watches as Sonic's cheeks turn red, swallowing his food, and looks away abashed, \"Well...I guess not? I mean...i-I know you have that promise you made to Maria, but...ahum?\"\n\nShadow is blown over by how ashamed and guilty Sonic looks right now; it is so heartbreakingly sad and cute that the dark hog thinks it had to be illegal. He really thought he was the only one and that no one would help him. That wasn't right. No one could protect an entire planet on their own! Even Shadow could admit that! That's why he let go of his anger at G.U.N. for what they had done to him and accepted his team. That was why despite his reluctance, he joined Sonic's friends and allies when the occasion called for them to do what needed to be done to fill his promise.\n\nGently placing his hand on the table, catching Sonic's attention, Shadow speaks slowly, his tone gentle yet firm for his rival. \"Sonic. You are not the only one. Yes, I promised Maria, but there are others as well. Even though they hurt me and I don't like their way of doing things that much, why do you think I joined G.U.N.?\" Sonic shrugs, lost green eyes looking at him, \"It's because I knew they had a similar goal to mine. To protect this planet and its inhabitants. They have the people and the resources to do what I can't do on my own. That's so many people right there who have the same job as we do!\n\nAnd then there's Knuckles! He guards the Master Emerald, which involves protecting Mobius as well. Protecting the Master and the Chaos emeralds means he has to stop anyone from using them for evil, and even he isn't alone! When he's helping you or has to go away to find an emerald, the Chaotix come to his aid; they guard the gems and help locate any that are lost.\n\nThen there's Tails and Amy, who go where ever you go. Silver, Blaze, myself, and so many others who are ready and willing to help you at the drop of a hat if you let them! So you see-\" Shadow lightly squeezes his charge's hand, \"You aren't alone in this. You don't have to put your life in danger every time the doctor or some other world-ending disaster threatens us; you have so many friends who care about you and want you safe. Just with this last mission, do you know how close to death you were?\"\n\nSonic's eyes water; quickly, he dips his head down to hide the already-seen unshed tears and shakes his head. Shadow allows him to hide, knowing that some of his speech was creating cracks in Sonic's resolve, the dark hedgehog didn't want to make him feel guilty and cry, but if that's what was needed, he would do it. Shadow breaths through his nose, steeling himself to show his rediscovered, vulnerable side. If he wanted Sonic to be open, he needed to be an adult and set the example.\n\n\"When I first found you, you were so...so still, and your Chaos energy was draining so fast. I was SCARED that you wouldn't make it before the medics arrived! When I had to call Tails to let him know what happened, he cried and didn't stop for hours until he had your hand in his.\"\n\nCalling the small fox had been dreadful. Hearing smart, witty Tails breakdown and beg Shadow to keep him informed of Sonic's condition and not to leave until he arrived (not that he had any plans to) and then shut down until Sonic was stable whilst mumbling reassurances to himself that his brother was ok. It brought back so many aching memories of himself being in Tails' position on the A.R.K. after Maria had another episode with her N.I.D.s. Shadow and the professor stuck in the waiting room, wondering if this day had been her last until the doctors reported that she was ok.\n\nShadow contemplated telling his rival that, but by the blue blur's wobbling lips, pink-tinged eyes, and nose in an effort to hold back the tears. He knew saying any more about what had happened wasn't necessary.\n\n\"What I'm trying to say is that you have so many people who love and worry about you. We hate to see you get hurt! Think about how Amy, Tails, or Knuckles would feel if Choas forbid Eggman actually won and got rid of you? I know I would be absolutely devastated, sweetheart!\"\n\nWhether it was the mention of how his death would affect his closest friends, family, and rival or the slip of the pet name Shadow wasn't sure, but Sonic, at last, broke down to tears—crumbling at the thought of unintentionally breaking his family's hearts over a mistake that could cost him his life.\n\nThe Ultimate Lifeform couldn't keep away and scooted his chair closer, pulling the silently sobbing hedgehog closer and giving a sideways hug as best he could with the highchair in the way. His heart broke just listening to the ball of fur in his arms break down and shaking with guilt.\n\n\"I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!\" Sonic gasps, hands clenching to his rival for comfort. \"I never knew! I didn't know! I'm so sorry!\" he weeps, grasping for purchase on Shadow's shoulders. The dark hog shushes his charge, hugging back quietly, assuring him that everything was alright and that it was ok for several minutes until the worst of Sonic's tears slowed.\n\nThe Ultimate Lifeform lets out a breath he hadn't realized he's been holding, the burden on his shoulders not disappearing as he thought it would but lighter than before.\n\nShadow pats his back in a steady rhythm glancing at the clock, quickly changing his initial plans. After their deep discussion and the subsequent crying fit, Sonic is bound to be exhausted and ready to be put down for a nap before their appointment.\n\nThe hog whispers a few more reassurances before letting go; the blue blur emits a confused and sad noise at the loss of comfort, \"Sorry,\" Shadow apologizes, heartstrings tugging seeing those guiltridden eyes; he wipes away a few tears with his thumb, \"I figure after all of that, you'll want a nap and have me help you get cleaned up and presentable before we go to your appointment?\" he says more as a statement than a question removing the tray and placing his charge on his hips going down the hall to the bathroom.\n\nSonic sniffs and rubs his eyes with a hum in agreement, quiet and subdued, while Shadow sets him down on the tile and removes his clothes, starting the cool bath.\n\nAfter the emotional talk, neither are eager to speak again while Shadow washes Sonic in the bubble bath, the blue hog shuddering short breaths and fiddling with the rubber ducky while he's scrubbed down. Shadow concentrates on washing, peeking every so often at his unusually melancholy rival; he could tell that their talk had stirred something in Sonic's mind as he opened his mouth a few times, almost speaking but stopping before the words come out.\n\nJust as Shadow rinses the last of the conditioner from Sonic's quills, the hog, at last, blurts, \"Shadow...\"\n\n\"Yes?\"\n\n\"I'm sorry for...making all of you worry. I didn't realize me trying to help protect all of you by putting myself at risk was-\" he weakly breaks off, unable to finish, jumping instead to another topic. \"Why do you um...what made...did? Ah...\" Sonic huffs and turns away, frustrated.\n\nShadow pities him, caressing his cheek and wiping the remaining tears away. He sees how much the idea of accidentally hurting his friends by his actions pains Sonic so much he can't finish the words. Gently nudging a tan and wet shoulder, he encourages Sonic to continue with a soft \"Go on.\" The blue blur lifts the rubber duck keeping his eyes on it as if he were talking to it when he finds the words to ask, \"Do you really like me?\"\n\n\"Yes, of course I do!\" Shadow exclaims, wondering what had made Sonic think that he didn't before he re-analyses that thought, \"Did you think? Because we're rivals...that that meant we weren't friends and that I only tolerated you?\" the blue blur nods and Shadow has to hold back the tears welling in his eyes regretful of his past behavior and assumptions.\n\n\"Sweetheart, I'm so sorry!\" The Ultimate Lifeform whispers, \"I thought you understood where we stand. That our rivalry was to help better each other.\"\n\n\"But you're always gone and act so annoyed when I'm around.\" Sonic whispers tracing a tan finger on the duck in his hands; the dark hog clicks his tongue. \"I'm sorry. I know my job keeps me busy a lot of the time. And I thought you understood that I was teasing. I mean, you can be a bit of a pest, and I'm sure Tails and Eggman will agree with me on that.\" Shadow teases and pretends to punch Sonic with a light nudge on his chin, directing his eyes back up. The obvious joking makes the blue blur smile softly. Shadow gazes back into those gem-like eyes saying with a hushed tone, \"I do deeply care about you, Sonic. I wouldn't have offered to have you stay here otherwise if that wasn't the case. Nobody pushed or guilt-tripped me to do this; I wanted to!\" he smiles.\n\nThe blue blur's small smile grows as he hopefully asks, \"Really?\"\n\n\"Really!\" Shadow affirms, unplugging the drain and emptying the water; grabbing a soft towel, he wraps his charge and pulls him out, rubbing him down, careful not to move the blue blur's broken limbs too much. Sonic squeaks a yawn, and the dark hog chuckles, taking them back to the nursery where he can diaper and put his baby down for a mid-morning nap.\n\nTaking one of the thicker diapers Shadow slowly wraps the padding around Sonic's waist, giving his tan tummy a slight tickle. The blue blur giggles sleepily, rubbing his eyes. The Ultimate Lifeform can't help but cooe, \"Someone is a sleepy baby.~\" Sonic blushes with a small bright smile, nodding. Shadow blinks in surprise at the admission but doesn't show anymore, gently he picks up the hedgehog and lays him back in the crib, covering him with his favorite baby blanket, and instead of forcing the pacifier, offers it.\n\nSonic looks at the pacifier for a minute before willingly taking it and putting it in his mouth, again to Shadow's surprise. The dark hog smiles, leaning over the crib and petting the smaller hedgehog's head, whispering, \"Sweet dreams, little one. I'll come get you in an hour.\" Sonic hums in understanding, then closes his eyes, exhausted.\n\nSonic pov\n\nMy head felt swimmy and floaty when I woke up kinda like when I was waking up from surgery, but without the groggy lightheadedness, that medication can give you. This was different but not unpleasant; it felt calm, peaceful, and safe.\n\nTwitching my ears, I heard the sounds of the road but could tell I was stationary. Curious, I open my eyes to see the backseat of a van with Shadow at the wheel. He must have heard me stirring because he glanced at the rearview mirror, flashing me a smile, \"Well, hello there! How are you feeling, baby?\"\n\nThe pet name made my insides wiggle, and the floaty feeling grew more intense. I shifted in my car seat, making the diaper underneath my clothes crinkle loudly, \"Good.\" I squeaked.\n\n'Baby' has been one of Shadow's favorite nicknames for me since I moved in. Normally, hearing the name would agitate me, but after our talk, I realized he wasn't calling me that to mock me it was said with affection. Knowing this now made me feel fuzzy and wiggly, like I had ants in my pants, and I couldn't stop smiling.\n\n\"That's good! We're just a few minutes away from the doctor after that; I need to run a few errands. Sorry, I would drop you off back home after this, but I'm just not comfortable yet, leaving you alone. Is that alright?\" I nodded, rubbing my blankie against my cheek and nom nom nomming the other corner while watching the shiny cars outside roll by.\n\nIt wasn't long before we arrived and parked close to the door; Shadow was taking me out of the baby car seat; when he looked at me with surprise and confusion, \"Do you want to take the blanket with you?\" I held on to it tighter and nodded, not about to be separated from my blankie. Shadow's odd expression was quickly replaced with a reassuring smile. I smiled back, still holding tight to my blankie, wondering why he would be confused but brushed it off, glad to see he was happy.\n\nPatting my diaper, he carries me to the hospital for my appointment. I can't help but feel a bit nervous, even if this is just a quick check-up to see how my recovery is going so far. Hospitals don't hold pleasant memories for me; waking up time and time again in pain after an encounter with Eggman and some confrontations with a few speciest doctors had left me with a bad taste in my mouth.\n\nSomehow Shadow sensed my nervousness and started rubbing the spot in-between my back quills, reassuring me that he would be by my side and protect me. A flutter of warmth ran through my heart at the reassurance before he sat me on a chair and went to the nurse at the desk to check me in. I looked around the small waiting room for something to occupy my attention, but to my surprise, Shadow returned and told me they were ready!\n\nThe nurse took us to one of the open examination rooms and quickly wrote down my vitals before saying the doc would see us shortly and leaving. I smirked at my riv-friend I corrected myself, \"Well, today must be our lucky day!\"\n\nShadow nods, \"So it would seem. But we might still have to wait a while.\" he says, rummaging through the selection of magazines, picking out one, and reading it, leaving me bored.\n\nI cross my arms as best I can and huffed (totally not pouting!) for a few minutes, waiting for Shadow to notice my displeasure and entertain me, but he is too occupied with whatever gossip magazine he's reading. Heaving a great sigh, I slide off the exam table, leaving my blankie behind since I would come back for it later, and crawl to the stack of magazines.\n\nThey were all the same celebrity gossip or home improvement types and at least 5 or 10 years old. None of them were capable of holding my attention; I turned to the other corner and held back a squeak at the small basket of baby toys.\n\nGlancing back at Shadow, I make sure he isn't paying attention to me; I don't want to give The Ultimate Lifeform any reason to think I might enjoy some of his babying. All the warm tickly feelings he makes me feel or the wiggle in my toes when he smiles at me. Thankfully, he is absorbed by some ancient article, leaving me free to explore.\n\nBut just in case he decided to check on me, I pretended to act disinterested as I shuffled to the basket to see what was inside. When I was close enough, I quietly pulled out the treasure box's contents; there were a few soft baby books, random action figures, plastic food, wooden puzzles, and a colorful bead maze!\n\nI nearly gasped at my last find. I love bead mazes! Shadow has one at home, and I secretly played with it whenever I could when he wasn't around. I wanted so badly to take out this one with the little safari animals and wind the colorful shapes around the twisted wires, imagining them as riders on a rollercoaster, but Shadow was right there.\n\nThe temptation was trying, but my embarrassment was stronger. Thankfully, before I had to struggle for much longer, the doctor walked in and greeted us. Shadow quickly helped me get back up on the exam table, where I complied with the doctor's questions and tests, hoping to get a reward later when we get out of here. Maybe I'll get a sticker or lollipop for being a good boy!","writing_bbcode_parsed":"*Hey everyone, before we get into the next chapter, I want to give y'all a little update. So recently a new exciting development has come into my life...I have a boyfriend!

For those of you who have dated before, you know how exciting this can be and how much time it can eat up in your day. I wanted to let y'all know cause if I start posting less, blame dating 😅 I won't stop altogether; I promise you that, but with less time to write means it takes longer before a chapter is ready to be posted.

I apologize in advance for the change of posting schedule, which is now "whenever," but it is what it is ️, and I hope you guys will be patient with me as I navigate this new experience in my life and try to prepare to tell him about my Little side in the coming months. Wish me luck that it all goes smoothly and hopefully I'll talk with you all again soon!*

Tw: Emotional talk and crying. P.O.V. changes later in the chapter.

To say the next few weeks went smoothly would greatly exaggerate how well Sonic and Shadow did not get along.

After Sonic spent the first day reflecting upon Shadow's "intentions" that have led to his predicament and seeing the Ultimate Lifeform fulfilling such intentions as he had explained. The blue blur resolved to do his best each day to make Shadow's job as difficult and fur-pulling frustrating as possible without hurting himself more in the hopes that his rival would give up.

Though there were a couple of times, Sonic pushed himself too far, wiggling, strained his lower back, and hurt like a bitch. Not to mention accidentally bumping one of his casts while being carried was never a pleasant surprise. He got tired quickly, too, as the pain medicine and the after-effects from anesthesia still plagued him, which could last for months.

For his efforts, the blue blur was often subjected to a light spanking, timeout in the crib, or privileges taken away, restricting his already limited freedom.

Still, Sonic continued to test Shadow's patience, the dark hog almost losing it several times during a few of the blue hedgehog's temper tantrums for having to use a bottle instead of a cup, being pushed to use the pacifier when he slept, or something else babyish that he was forced to do or use. After punishing Sonic, sometimes the Ultimate Lifeform would have to walk away or step out of the house for a few minutes to calm down to keep from Chaos Blasting the brat into oblivion. That always made the blue blur proud, even if it came with the price of being extra tired. (It was not guilt!)

But such violence from the black hog would ultimately defeat the purpose of this babying charade; Shadow sensed that Maria would be disappointed if he gave in to such impulses.

Yet there were a couple of bright spots of peace behind all of their arguments, shouting matches, aggravated attitudes, complaints, and fights.

Shadow would reward Sonic with an extra dessert or delayed bedtime if he had been less disobedient that day. Sonic saying a meaningful thank you or apology. Every few days, Shadow would find the blue blur playing with the baby toys when he thought he wasn't being watched, babbling away like a toddler absorbed in their game. The warm feelings Sonic experienced every day when Shadow changed his bandages and diapers or washed him with a gentle touch and reassurance at bath times with utmost care. During the early mornings, Shadow would tiptoe into the nursery, watching Sonic sleep in his crib, unconsciously sucking his thumb when the pacifier fell out and clinging to his soft baby blanket.

Neither wanted to admit that, surprisingly, there was something about this babying experience they were both starting to enjoy. Heaven forbid that they admit this to the other, and such thoughts were banished during the daylight hours, but at night, alone in their respective beds, the recollections and emotions that were pushed away during the day would return in full force.

Shadow experienced protective urges and the almost overwhelming desire to pick up, cuddle, and coo at his rival whenever those big sparkly gem-like eyes looked up at him without hostility. Or when Sonic looked cute, wearing a babyish outfit, and blushed in embarrassment. Those instincts that had briefly emerged when Sonic was first injured grew exponentially as Shadow felt drawn more and more to get closer to his rival.

The Ultimate Lifeform couldn't deny that he enjoyed babying Sonic. How innocent he seemed in the diapers and when asleep. All those times, he caught a glimpse of a smile or a giggle from the blue hog when he thought Shadow wasn't paying attention. Or when Sonic's reaction or expressions were so cute, it made his heart want to burst out of his chest; the dark hog wanted to see and feel more of that. He wanted to make Sonic smile, giggle, and look at him in adoration.

Images passed in his mind of Sonic crawling to him and asking to play, running away from Shadow in a game of tag, giggling till he had the most adorable sounding hiccups. They plagued his mind before going to sleep each night. It scared and hurt Shadow's heart as he realized how much he wanted this to be real and not some teachable punishment that Sonic resented him for.

While Shadow was contemplating the reasons behind this sudden infliction of what he would soon realize were parental instincts. Sonic was freaking out for a different reason in his head.

The baby treatment and the reasoning behind it frankly pissed him off; he thought it was stupid that he was being treated like this when A) he was not a hoglet and B) had risked his own damn life to save them all again from Eggman's plot. Being punished for doing what he thought he needed to do to protect everyone made no sense in his mind.

So he fought; just because Shadow could overpower him now doesn't mean Sonic couldn't make his life difficult. The blue blur bit punched, kicked, screamed, and fought every chance he got to ensure that self-centered emo prick knew how much he hated this.

The subsequent timeouts, loss of toys he didn't 'care for,' tv time, sweets, and bare-bottomed spankings did not deter him!

However, there were days when Sonic was just too tired or in pain to give the fight his all and would comply with being babied. Those days were arguably more pleasant. He would get a cookie or milkshake after dinner, a few more minutes of tv time, or get to stay up longer than 10 pm. Sometimes if the weather was just right on those days, Shadow would pull out the lawn chair and let him sunbathe for a glorious hour in the privacy of his backyard. During those days, Sonic found the baby treatment nice and would secretly play with the toys Shadow had gotten for him.

Though he told himself he only did this when he was bored out of his mind and for no other reason!

Everything was so much better during those days when he backed down; Shadow was more prone to smile, which Sonic always liked to see. It fit the dark hog's face better than his ordinary glare ever did.

It made the guilt in Sonic's belly sour and roll as if he had food poisoning because even on the days the blue blur fought Shadow with all his might, the dark hog didn't deviate from how he treated him. Shadow always ensured he took his medicine, was well fed and clean, bandages were changed on time, and never sat around in a wet diaper long enough for the warmth afterward to fade away.

All the care and attention made the emotion and warmth he would find in Shadow's eyes impossible to ignore. As the weeks went by, Sonic found an increased frequency of longing and desire for something from him in those red eyes that made the blue blur's insides squirm and his cheeks beet red. As if Shadow knew something about himself that he didn't know or was hiding and wanted so badly to help bring it out, encouraging him to let it go by the pleading look in his eyes

His guilt for causing Shadow such troubles morphed into a developing interest as to why the dark hog would go to such great lengths to make a point. Was there a point? Why all the effort? Did Shadow really care about him as something more than a rival, or was he imagining it?

Sonic well knew why he was staying with the Ultimate Lifeform, but were the motivations for taking him in not of begrudging obligation but of actual want?

The more Sonic thought about this, the more he let go of his grudge and allowed Shadow to care for him to see if all the little glimpses of tender affection and fondness really was in his imagination.

Within a month, Shadow's almost everyday battle with the blue blur completely stopped; it bewildered the ebony hog. He thought Sonic would fight him for much longer before giving in; the change was suspicious.

Yet Sonic's demeanor changed too gradually for it to be a ploy to lull him into a false sense of security. Shadow found himself conflicted, weary that the blue blur was trying to pull a trick on him but also hopeful that maybe his plan was working.

Shadow opens his eyes to the ceiling of his dark room; without looking at the clock, he can tell that it is an early hour, just before dawn. Decades of rigorous early schedules giving him the ability to start his days extra early, not to mention having the energy to do so, another benefit of being the Ultimate Lifeform.

Rolling off the bed, he yawns and stretches before getting up and heading for the bathroom, turning the shower on at its hottest temperature. Briefly testing the water, he jumps in, wetting his fur and scrubbing down a large dollop of shampoo through his arms, legs, head, and chest.

Let's see today...Sonic has an appointment with the doctor. But that won't be until later this afternoon, so he has time to eat and have some playtime. I should bathe him before we go since it's been a couple of days. We're running low on essentials, so we'll have to make a stop at the market and pick up some snacks while we're at it. Maybe since he's been such a good baby of late, I could let him pick out a new toy, or we could get some ingredients for cupcakes as a reward?

Shadow pauses his scrubbing, surprised by how parental the last thoughts are. Do I really want to reward him for just doing as I say though? Yes, Sonic has been obedient, but that doesn't mean he agrees or understands the purpose of all of this. He throws away every other toy I give him...then again, I have found him playing with a few when he thinks I'm not around. Maybe if I let him pick the toy, he'll be more likely to play?

What am I thinking? With a sigh, he turns off the water and grabs a towel patting himself down and reevaluating his plan. I can't keep thinking of that annoying little prickle hog as a child; doing so doesn't make any sense if we keep running around in circles between our bickering and the real issue. I can't keep daydreaming about treating him even more like a hoglet. The point of this is to make that hedgehog grow up a bit more, not less. Sigh, I need to talk with him.

Stepping out of the shower, the dark hog opens his mirror cabinet and grabs his quill comb and gel. Quickly drying the rest of his fur Shadow drops the towel in the laundry bin and dips the teeth of the comb in the gel; then, with sweeping motions, he combs the fur and quills surrounding his head into his signature style.

Once finished, he brushes his teeth and puts on a clean pair of socks and gloves, stepping into his hover skate shoes before heading down to make breakfast.

Scrabbling up a good portion of eggs, fried bacon, toast, juice, and milk, Shadow sets the table and then goes to the nursery to wake his charge. When he enters, a pleasant smile creeps up on his face seeing Sonic laid out on his belly, fists clutching the soft duckling baby blanket he had become attached to, and lazily sucking on the pacifier. Stepping to the window, Shadow opens the curtains letting the morning light in, and unlocks the crib bars picking up Sonic, gently bouncing and rubbing his back, encouraging him to wake up.

The blue blur groans, pacifier falling as he yawns and rubs his eyes, "Morning, sweetie. Did you sleep well?" Sonic answers with a grunt, not happy to be woken up. Swaying side to side, Shadow pats his bottom a little more firmly, checking the diaper for wetness, which it is. The blue hedgehog groans muttering a "Fine..." assenting to the change.

Shadow kisses Sonic's temple, whispering, "Good boy." and lays him on the changing table. Switching directions to the closet, the Ultimate Lifeform picks out one of the less childish outfits, laying it next to the sleepy blue blur's head, then begins the diaper change.

"So-" Sonic begins, interrupted by one last jaw-cracking yawn, "Today we're going out, huh?" Shadow hums, throwing away the dirty diaper and putting a new one on, "What led you to that conclusion?" he asks, and Sonic points to the plain shirt and khaki shorts beside his head, "You only let me wear non-childish clothes when we're going out, which I appreciate, by the way. This is humiliating enough as it is."

"You're welcome. Legs up, please," he instructs, pulling up the shorts to Sonic's waist, "Now sit up. You know I'm not doing this to humiliate you." Shadow says, tugging down the shirt. The blue blur looks at him, skeptical "That's what you've said, but I don't know how much I believe it?"

Looks like we're going to have this conversation early. Shadow muses before replying, "Well, if I really did wish to humiliate you, I would be much more open about babying you, and all of your friends would be aware. However, I have not told anyone, and as you pointed out, I make sure not to dress you as young as I normally do when we go out." now that his rival was dressed, he picks Sonic up and carries him to the kitchen, placing the blue blur in the highchair and locking the tray in. "That's true." the blue hog relents, thanking Shadow for his food and digging in, "I know you've told me why you're doing this. But I still don't get it? Why go to all the trouble?"

The Ultimate Lifeform sits by his plate and fiddles with his fork, lips pressed, still unsure how best to explain to the blue hog in a convincing way that his life is valuable not as a hero but as a person. Their first conversation, more like an argument, didn't go well, and neither have the subsequent others following it. Turning into more screaming matches than calm discussions, Yet Shadow was determined, even if it took Sonic's entire stay for him to get the message.

The dark hog is quiet for so long Sonic thinks Shadow has ignored his question, jumping and almost dropping his plastic fork when Shadow says slowly, "...I realize I may not have made myself clear. I'm only trying to get you to see that you place your life at risk when it may not be necessary much too often."

The blue blur rolls his eyes, tired of hearing this same argument come up again. "You do get that I'm like the protector of Mobius, right?"

"Yes." Shadow agrees, sipping his coffee, "But you're not the only one."

The silence that follows that statement cuts through the atmosphere like a knife; the blue blur gaps at the ebony hog with a mouth full of toast, "What?!" he chokes at the shocking news.

Shadow analyzes Sonic's reaction seeing that every bit of his expression shows pure astonishment. His eyes narrow at the hedgehog, "Sonic...you didn't think you were the only one who made it their duty to safeguard Mobius, right?" Shadow watches as Sonic's cheeks turn red, swallowing his food, and looks away abashed, "Well...I guess not? I mean...i-I know you have that promise you made to Maria, but...ahum?"

Shadow is blown over by how ashamed and guilty Sonic looks right now; it is so heartbreakingly sad and cute that the dark hog thinks it had to be illegal. He really thought he was the only one and that no one would help him. That wasn't right. No one could protect an entire planet on their own! Even Shadow could admit that! That's why he let go of his anger at G.U.N. for what they had done to him and accepted his team. That was why despite his reluctance, he joined Sonic's friends and allies when the occasion called for them to do what needed to be done to fill his promise.

Gently placing his hand on the table, catching Sonic's attention, Shadow speaks slowly, his tone gentle yet firm for his rival. "Sonic. You are not the only one. Yes, I promised Maria, but there are others as well. Even though they hurt me and I don't like their way of doing things that much, why do you think I joined G.U.N.?" Sonic shrugs, lost green eyes looking at him, "It's because I knew they had a similar goal to mine. To protect this planet and its inhabitants. They have the people and the resources to do what I can't do on my own. That's so many people right there who have the same job as we do!

And then there's Knuckles! He guards the Master Emerald, which involves protecting Mobius as well. Protecting the Master and the Chaos emeralds means he has to stop anyone from using them for evil, and even he isn't alone! When he's helping you or has to go away to find an emerald, the Chaotix come to his aid; they guard the gems and help locate any that are lost.

Then there's Tails and Amy, who go where ever you go. Silver, Blaze, myself, and so many others who are ready and willing to help you at the drop of a hat if you let them! So you see-" Shadow lightly squeezes his charge's hand, "You aren't alone in this. You don't have to put your life in danger every time the doctor or some other world-ending disaster threatens us; you have so many friends who care about you and want you safe. Just with this last mission, do you know how close to death you were?"

Sonic's eyes water; quickly, he dips his head down to hide the already-seen unshed tears and shakes his head. Shadow allows him to hide, knowing that some of his speech was creating cracks in Sonic's resolve, the dark hedgehog didn't want to make him feel guilty and cry, but if that's what was needed, he would do it. Shadow breaths through his nose, steeling himself to show his rediscovered, vulnerable side. If he wanted Sonic to be open, he needed to be an adult and set the example.

"When I first found you, you were so...so still, and your Chaos energy was draining so fast. I was SCARED that you wouldn't make it before the medics arrived! When I had to call Tails to let him know what happened, he cried and didn't stop for hours until he had your hand in his."

Calling the small fox had been dreadful. Hearing smart, witty Tails breakdown and beg Shadow to keep him informed of Sonic's condition and not to leave until he arrived (not that he had any plans to) and then shut down until Sonic was stable whilst mumbling reassurances to himself that his brother was ok. It brought back so many aching memories of himself being in Tails' position on the A.R.K. after Maria had another episode with her N.I.D.s. Shadow and the professor stuck in the waiting room, wondering if this day had been her last until the doctors reported that she was ok.

Shadow contemplated telling his rival that, but by the blue blur's wobbling lips, pink-tinged eyes, and nose in an effort to hold back the tears. He knew saying any more about what had happened wasn't necessary.

"What I'm trying to say is that you have so many people who love and worry about you. We hate to see you get hurt! Think about how Amy, Tails, or Knuckles would feel if Choas forbid Eggman actually won and got rid of you? I know I would be absolutely devastated, sweetheart!"

Whether it was the mention of how his death would affect his closest friends, family, and rival or the slip of the pet name Shadow wasn't sure, but Sonic, at last, broke down to tears—crumbling at the thought of unintentionally breaking his family's hearts over a mistake that could cost him his life.

The Ultimate Lifeform couldn't keep away and scooted his chair closer, pulling the silently sobbing hedgehog closer and giving a sideways hug as best he could with the highchair in the way. His heart broke just listening to the ball of fur in his arms break down and shaking with guilt.

"I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!" Sonic gasps, hands clenching to his rival for comfort. "I never knew! I didn't know! I'm so sorry!" he weeps, grasping for purchase on Shadow's shoulders. The dark hog shushes his charge, hugging back quietly, assuring him that everything was alright and that it was ok for several minutes until the worst of Sonic's tears slowed.

The Ultimate Lifeform lets out a breath he hadn't realized he's been holding, the burden on his shoulders not disappearing as he thought it would but lighter than before.

Shadow pats his back in a steady rhythm glancing at the clock, quickly changing his initial plans. After their deep discussion and the subsequent crying fit, Sonic is bound to be exhausted and ready to be put down for a nap before their appointment.

The hog whispers a few more reassurances before letting go; the blue blur emits a confused and sad noise at the loss of comfort, "Sorry," Shadow apologizes, heartstrings tugging seeing those guiltridden eyes; he wipes away a few tears with his thumb, "I figure after all of that, you'll want a nap and have me help you get cleaned up and presentable before we go to your appointment?" he says more as a statement than a question removing the tray and placing his charge on his hips going down the hall to the bathroom.

Sonic sniffs and rubs his eyes with a hum in agreement, quiet and subdued, while Shadow sets him down on the tile and removes his clothes, starting the cool bath.

After the emotional talk, neither are eager to speak again while Shadow washes Sonic in the bubble bath, the blue hog shuddering short breaths and fiddling with the rubber ducky while he's scrubbed down. Shadow concentrates on washing, peeking every so often at his unusually melancholy rival; he could tell that their talk had stirred something in Sonic's mind as he opened his mouth a few times, almost speaking but stopping before the words come out.

Just as Shadow rinses the last of the conditioner from Sonic's quills, the hog, at last, blurts, "Shadow..."

"Yes?"

"I'm sorry for...making all of you worry. I didn't realize me trying to help protect all of you by putting myself at risk was-" he weakly breaks off, unable to finish, jumping instead to another topic. "Why do you um...what made...did? Ah..." Sonic huffs and turns away, frustrated.

Shadow pities him, caressing his cheek and wiping the remaining tears away. He sees how much the idea of accidentally hurting his friends by his actions pains Sonic so much he can't finish the words. Gently nudging a tan and wet shoulder, he encourages Sonic to continue with a soft "Go on." The blue blur lifts the rubber duck keeping his eyes on it as if he were talking to it when he finds the words to ask, "Do you really like me?"

"Yes, of course I do!" Shadow exclaims, wondering what had made Sonic think that he didn't before he re-analyses that thought, "Did you think? Because we're rivals...that that meant we weren't friends and that I only tolerated you?" the blue blur nods and Shadow has to hold back the tears welling in his eyes regretful of his past behavior and assumptions.

"Sweetheart, I'm so sorry!" The Ultimate Lifeform whispers, "I thought you understood where we stand. That our rivalry was to help better each other."

"But you're always gone and act so annoyed when I'm around." Sonic whispers tracing a tan finger on the duck in his hands; the dark hog clicks his tongue. "I'm sorry. I know my job keeps me busy a lot of the time. And I thought you understood that I was teasing. I mean, you can be a bit of a pest, and I'm sure Tails and Eggman will agree with me on that." Shadow teases and pretends to punch Sonic with a light nudge on his chin, directing his eyes back up. The obvious joking makes the blue blur smile softly. Shadow gazes back into those gem-like eyes saying with a hushed tone, "I do deeply care about you, Sonic. I wouldn't have offered to have you stay here otherwise if that wasn't the case. Nobody pushed or guilt-tripped me to do this; I wanted to!" he smiles.

The blue blur's small smile grows as he hopefully asks, "Really?"

"Really!" Shadow affirms, unplugging the drain and emptying the water; grabbing a soft towel, he wraps his charge and pulls him out, rubbing him down, careful not to move the blue blur's broken limbs too much. Sonic squeaks a yawn, and the dark hog chuckles, taking them back to the nursery where he can diaper and put his baby down for a mid-morning nap.

Taking one of the thicker diapers Shadow slowly wraps the padding around Sonic's waist, giving his tan tummy a slight tickle. The blue blur giggles sleepily, rubbing his eyes. The Ultimate Lifeform can't help but cooe, "Someone is a sleepy baby.~" Sonic blushes with a small bright smile, nodding. Shadow blinks in surprise at the admission but doesn't show anymore, gently he picks up the hedgehog and lays him back in the crib, covering him with his favorite baby blanket, and instead of forcing the pacifier, offers it.

Sonic looks at the pacifier for a minute before willingly taking it and putting it in his mouth, again to Shadow's surprise. The dark hog smiles, leaning over the crib and petting the smaller hedgehog's head, whispering, "Sweet dreams, little one. I'll come get you in an hour." Sonic hums in understanding, then closes his eyes, exhausted.

Sonic pov

My head felt swimmy and floaty when I woke up kinda like when I was waking up from surgery, but without the groggy lightheadedness, that medication can give you. This was different but not unpleasant; it felt calm, peaceful, and safe.

Twitching my ears, I heard the sounds of the road but could tell I was stationary. Curious, I open my eyes to see the backseat of a van with Shadow at the wheel. He must have heard me stirring because he glanced at the rearview mirror, flashing me a smile, "Well, hello there! How are you feeling, baby?"

The pet name made my insides wiggle, and the floaty feeling grew more intense. I shifted in my car seat, making the diaper underneath my clothes crinkle loudly, "Good." I squeaked.

'Baby' has been one of Shadow's favorite nicknames for me since I moved in. Normally, hearing the name would agitate me, but after our talk, I realized he wasn't calling me that to mock me it was said with affection. Knowing this now made me feel fuzzy and wiggly, like I had ants in my pants, and I couldn't stop smiling.

"That's good! We're just a few minutes away from the doctor after that; I need to run a few errands. Sorry, I would drop you off back home after this, but I'm just not comfortable yet, leaving you alone. Is that alright?" I nodded, rubbing my blankie against my cheek and nom nom nomming the other corner while watching the shiny cars outside roll by.

It wasn't long before we arrived and parked close to the door; Shadow was taking me out of the baby car seat; when he looked at me with surprise and confusion, "Do you want to take the blanket with you?" I held on to it tighter and nodded, not about to be separated from my blankie. Shadow's odd expression was quickly replaced with a reassuring smile. I smiled back, still holding tight to my blankie, wondering why he would be confused but brushed it off, glad to see he was happy.

Patting my diaper, he carries me to the hospital for my appointment. I can't help but feel a bit nervous, even if this is just a quick check-up to see how my recovery is going so far. Hospitals don't hold pleasant memories for me; waking up time and time again in pain after an encounter with Eggman and some confrontations with a few speciest doctors had left me with a bad taste in my mouth.

Somehow Shadow sensed my nervousness and started rubbing the spot in-between my back quills, reassuring me that he would be by my side and protect me. A flutter of warmth ran through my heart at the reassurance before he sat me on a chair and went to the nurse at the desk to check me in. I looked around the small waiting room for something to occupy my attention, but to my surprise, Shadow returned and told me they were ready!

The nurse took us to one of the open examination rooms and quickly wrote down my vitals before saying the doc would see us shortly and leaving. I smirked at my riv-friend I corrected myself, "Well, today must be our lucky day!"

Shadow nods, "So it would seem. But we might still have to wait a while." he says, rummaging through the selection of magazines, picking out one, and reading it, leaving me bored.

I cross my arms as best I can and huffed (totally not pouting!) for a few minutes, waiting for Shadow to notice my displeasure and entertain me, but he is too occupied with whatever gossip magazine he's reading. Heaving a great sigh, I slide off the exam table, leaving my blankie behind since I would come back for it later, and crawl to the stack of magazines.

They were all the same celebrity gossip or home improvement types and at least 5 or 10 years old. None of them were capable of holding my attention; I turned to the other corner and held back a squeak at the small basket of baby toys.

Glancing back at Shadow, I make sure he isn't paying attention to me; I don't want to give The Ultimate Lifeform any reason to think I might enjoy some of his babying. All the warm tickly feelings he makes me feel or the wiggle in my toes when he smiles at me. Thankfully, he is absorbed by some ancient article, leaving me free to explore.

But just in case he decided to check on me, I pretended to act disinterested as I shuffled to the basket to see what was inside. When I was close enough, I quietly pulled out the treasure box's contents; there were a few soft baby books, random action figures, plastic food, wooden puzzles, and a colorful bead maze!

I nearly gasped at my last find. I love bead mazes! Shadow has one at home, and I secretly played with it whenever I could when he wasn't around. I wanted so badly to take out this one with the little safari animals and wind the colorful shapes around the twisted wires, imagining them as riders on a rollercoaster, but Shadow was right there.

The temptation was trying, but my embarrassment was stronger. Thankfully, before I had to struggle for much longer, the doctor walked in and greeted us. Shadow quickly helped me get back up on the exam table, where I complied with the doctor's questions and tests, hoping to get a reward later when we get out of here. Maybe I'll get a sticker or lollipop for being a good boy!","pools_count":1,"title":"BDHM Chapter 5 New Baby in the House","deleted":"f","public":"t","mimetype":"text/rtf","pagecount":"1","rating_id":"0","rating_name":"General","ratings":[],"submission_type_id":"12","type_name":"Writing - Document","guest_block":"f","friends_only":"f","comments_count":"0","views":"74"}