“Actually, I think adopting you would be more trouble than it’s worth,” Elise sighed. “I don’t know if I’d be able to make you a better person, and I don’t want someone like you for a son.”
“Hey!”
“Ah-ah,” Elise said, waving a finger. “Did you forget who’s in charge here and who’s in a diaper? Be quiet like a good little boy or I might make you even younger.” Nicky nodded silently. “Anyways, like I was saying, I think I’ll pass on the adoption route. Right now, at least.”
Elise grabbed Nicky’s backpack and carefully put it on Nicky. Nicky knew he must look ridiculous. A two-year-old in only a diaper with a backpack too big for him? But he continued to keep his mouth shut. At least he could talk and walk. If he upset Elise more, he’d lose those skills, too.
“You look adorable,” Elise gushed, pinching Nicky’s cheek. She smiled. “It’ll be easy enough to get someone to cover for me while I drop you off.”
“Drop me off?” Nicky squeaked timidly.
“Yep. I’m going to let you try to find your way to the shop all on your own. You need a starting point for that.” Elise frowned thoughtfully. “Now, the only question is where you get to start your great journey from.”