“Leah, what’s going on?” Tina asks, confused. Leah fakes a laugh.
“It’s just a joke.”
“I don’t get it.”
“Well, people think I’m a lot younger than I am, so I might as well dress like it,” Leah fibs. Tina frowns. “And you take care of little kids, so-”
“Wait, are you making fun of my career?” Tina demands, propping a hand on one hip. Leah realizes suddenly that she’s gone too far.
“No, I’m not-” she backtracks quickly. But it’s too late. Tina is pissed.
“I keep you fed and clothed and safe, I do everything I can to help us bond as mother and daughter, and you still mock me!”
“Stepmother,” Leah corrects instinctively. Tina’s already furious expression turns stormy.
“That’s it!” she snaps. “If you think it’s so funny I work at a daycare, maybe you’ll think it’s hilarious when I enroll you in my daycare.” Leah stares at her.
“W-what?” she stammers. “Daycare? But I’m a teenager!”
“And I’m your mother. I’ll call you out of school for this week. Instead, you’ll be coming with me to work. As one of the children being watched.”
“Tina-”
“Look, I’m not a monster,” Tina says with a sigh. “At home, you can be your regular self. But starting now, you’re going to dress and act your size in public.” Tina lifts Leah and places her into the shopping cart seat. She then heads for the toddler and baby aisle, where she begins tossing various supplies and clothes into the cart.
“I don’t need diapers,” Leah protests as Tina picks up a package.
“Try that again.”
“…No need diapy.”
“Much better.” Tina puts the diapers into the cart. “I won’t force you to use diapers or training pants in public, but you’ll be wearing them, and I won’t let you duck off to the bathroom. Be prepared to hold it until you’re home.”
Leah swallows. All she can do now is hope that Tina holds up that promise, and doesn’t force her to be a little kid even at home.