"...tell Rita you're actually two," Tina suggests. Leah flinches slightly as Tina wipes her down.
"But didn't you say Rita doesn't understand child development?" she asks. "Maybe she'll think this is normal for someone my age." Tina shakes her head.
"Diapers are one thing. This is too far, even for Rita." Tina tapes the fresh diaper on. "I don't want you miserable during your week here, and if Rita knows your real age, she's going to treat you...differently. She'll worry and fuss over you. Maybe even take you to the doctor."
"I don't want that."
"I know. But Rita won't bat an eye if she thinks you're two."
"Ugh." Leah sighs. "Fine." Tina smiles.
"Perfect."
"But...how do I act two?"
"You've been doing a fantastic job so far, sweetie. Just lean into whatever urges are having you suck your thumb."
"Got it," Leah says with a nod. Tina carries her, only wearing a diaper, into the living room. Rita is waiting for them.
"Sorry, I forgot her diaper bag and clothes and toys," Tina says. Leah's teenage things are packed in the car, but she can't use them to pretend to be two. Rita frowns.
"Toys? You said she was a teenager."
"What?" Tina looks at Rita in feigned shock. "No, I said she's two!"
"You did?"
"Yes!"
"Oh, well, that explains the display on the porch," Rita says after a moment. "I was thinking that there was no way this child was a teenager."
"Nope. Two."
"Well, if you give me a list of supplies, I'll order them online for same-day delivery," Rita says. Leah is relieved. She doesn't want to go out in public like this. At least, not yet.
"Thanks. I'll pay you back."
"No need! My job pays me too much!" Rita laughs.
Tina scribbles down a list, gives it to Rita, then hands over Leah.
"I'll be back soon," Tina says to Leah. "Be good for Auntie Rita." She hugs Rita and leaves.
Rita looks down at Leah. In a panic, Leah does the first babyish thing she can think of.