Chapter 8

Catherines pov

"No! What? You're a freak!" Erika yelled at me before rushing out the door.

I called out her name multiple times and even reached for her hand. I knew what I was suggesting was a bit much, but I didn't expect her reaction to be so intense.

But nothing was going to stop her from leaving. I thought about running after her, but she probably needed to be alone. During the duration of her absence all I could do was pace back and forth in worry. I called about a million times, but she didn't answer even one message, phone call, voice mail, nothing.

My sweet girl, my Erika, she didn't know her way around yet. All I could think was 'Where could she possibly be?' I couldn't help but be filled with worry.

When she finally arrived back home, the smell of booze was so intense. I knew she must've been at a party. I could tell by her overly emotional reactions that she was majorly drunk. My baby has never been so emotional, so I knew something was wrong. The fact that she had a headache and tummy ache was no surprise.

I pretended as if I didn't know she was wasted, but this won't happen again, not in my house. She will never underage drink as long as I'm her mommy.

"I haven't weighed you but there's no way you're above 100 pounds." I thought outloud, I didn't expect a response just speaking to myself mostly.

"Yes I am," Erika lifted her head from my shoulder, "Are you sure?" I asked with a raised eyebrow, "Well just in case I'm going to give you a smaller amount, better be safe than sorry." I could tell Erika was biting back her argument, but I didn't care, she felt no more than 90 pounds in my arms.

I poured the tiny container a little more than halfway and handed it to Erika. She took it from me and quickly downed the blue raspberry medicine like it was a shot.

She scrunched her little nose after and tried to mask her look of disgust that plastered her face. Her expression and mannerisms made me laugh, she was most definitely wasted.

"What's funny?" My girl asked looking down, now a sad expression took over the once disgusted one.

I swayed her to ease her nerves, "Your expression after drinking the medicine was silly, that's all honey don't worry." I continued to scratch her back, she was obviously tired and not feeling well, "I'm going to run a bath for you, but don't worry I won't come in at all, okay love bug?" I walked towards the bathroom across from the guest bedroom.

"Okay, thank you." Erika responded as I placed her head back into the crook of my neck. I open the door to the bathroom and set her down on the toilet seat.

I kneeled down to Erika's level, "I'm going to go grab you some pj's and panties okay?" I placed her little face framing pieces behind her ears as she nodded in response to my rhetorical question.

I purposely had padding on the toilet seat so it would be taller than her to make her feel smaller. In the corner of my eye I saw her swaying her feet back and forth as I exited to grab her clothes.

As I gathered Erika's pajamas and panties, my mind raced with worry and relief. I was grateful she was back, but her drunken state and earlier outburst had left me shaken. I quickly found her a pair of soft pajamas and some fresh underwear, hoping the familiar comfort would help soothe her.

Returning to the bathroom, I found Erika sitting where I had left her, her feet still swaying absentmindedly. Her face was pale, and she looked exhausted, her earlier defiance replaced by vulnerability. I knelt down in front of her, my heart aching with a mixture of love and concern.

"Here you go, sweetheart," I said softly, handing her the clothes. "Let's get you cleaned up and into bed, okay?"

She nodded, her movements sluggish as she took the pajamas from me. I turned on the bath faucet, letting the warm water fill the tub. I quickly felt the water to confirm it wasn't too hot or too cold.

"I'm going to leave now and I'll be waiting in the nursery for you," I fully stood from the kneeling position I was in, "just yell for me if you need absolutely anything." I then excited the bathroom and closed the door behind me.

I walked to the kitchen to make Erika a quick bottle, whilst my mind replayed the events of the evening. I couldn't shake the image of Erika's distraught face as she yelled at me and rushed out the door. The fear in her eyes had cut through me like a knife. I knew she hadn't meant the hurtful words, but they still stung. All I wanted was to protect her, to make her feel safe and loved.

As I sat in the nursery, I arranged her stuffed animals on the bed, trying to create a comforting environment for her. I smoothed out the blankets, ensuring everything was perfect for her return. My thoughts drifted back to the first day we met, she was nothing as I expected. She was so small, so vulnerable, the clothes I got her were even too big.

Minutes passed, and I listened for any sound from the bathroom. Finally, I heard the water stop running and the soft padding of Erika's footsteps. I stood up as she appeared in the doorway, dressed in her pajamas, looking even more exhausted than before.

"Come here, sweetheart," I said, opening my arms to her. She hesitated for a moment before walking over and collapsing into my embrace. I held her tightly, feeling her small body shake. "Aw honey, are you cold?"

"Yeah" she whispered, her voice muffled against my shoulder.

"Let's grab the blanket" I replied, gently rubbing her back. She nodded, her grip on me tightening. I placed the blanket over us and sat us down at the rocking chair. "It's way past somebody's bedtime," I brushed a strand of hair from her eyes, "and you have such a big day tomorrow."

I grabbed the bottle and brought it to Erika's lips. She took the bottle in her mouth and began to drink. I rocked the chair gently, humming a soft lullaby to soothe her. Her eyes fluttered shut, the tension in her body gradually melting away.

As she finished the bottle, I set it aside and continued to rock her, her breathing growing steady and even. My thoughts wandered back to our conversation earlier. I knew I had to talk to her about what happened, but now wasn't the time. She needed rest and comfort more than anything else.

After a while, I stood up, carefully cradling Erika in my arms, and carried her to the bed. I laid her down gently, tucking her in with the blanket and placing a stuffed animal beside her. She stirred slightly, but didn't wake up, her face serene in sleep.

I sat on the edge of the bed, watching her for a moment longer. The events of the night had been a wake-up call. I needed to ensure that Erika felt safe and understood that she could always come to me, no matter what. I leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.

"Sweet dreams, love bug," I whispered before standing up and leaving the room, leaving the door slightly ajar so I could hear her if she needed me.

As I walked back to the living room, I felt the weight of the night settling over me. I sank onto the couch, my mind racing with a mix of relief and concern. I knew I needed to have a serious conversation with Erika about underage drinking and the importance of communication. I wanted her to understand that she could always come to me, no matter what.

I didn't want to overstep boundaries, but I'm her mommy. I had to set rules to keep her safe, even if she doesn't like it. Tomorrow we'll have a difficult conversation.

Erika's pov

Beep Beep Beep

That infamous sound invaded my ear canals. I shot up in nervousness, today hopefully will be okay. I only have BIO 101 and PSYCH 200 today. Should be light since it's only two classes instead of three.

Luckily that medicine did wonders for me. I only have faint queasiness, but my headache disintegrated. As I arose from the nursery bed I recalled how pathetic I was yesterday. I gave in too much even if I felt guilty. Sure it's part of my agreement, but it didn't mean I had to comply right away.

I attempted to push down the bars from the crib, or more like the prison I was in. I relentlessly tried to open the death box, but I couldn't, no matter how hard I tried. I decided I needed to get out quickly since, looking at the clock, it was already 10 a.m and my first class was at 12 p.m.

I climbed out of the oversize crib, but my foot slipped and a huge thud was let out. I rapidly stood to avoid embarrassment as I heard footsteps approaching the room.

Catherine bursted through the door, "My lord, is everything okay?" She asked, "What happened? It sounds like something fell."

"Nothing fell, everything's good." I lied as I tried to get past the door, or more so past Catherine's intimidating stare.

Before I could leave Catherine spoke up once more, "Awe my little monkey did you jump out of your crib?"

I looked down in embarrassment. I couldn't tell her that I wasn't able to unlock the crib bars to get them down; that would make her see me as a child even outside of the two hours where I had to be a child. I shook my head no in response, still keeping my eyes away from her face.

I looked up for a split second and saw Catherine's raised eyebrow in response to my answer. "I don't tolerate lying, monkey," she said. I internally scoffed at this. We aren't even doing our time. She's not my real mom; she can't scold me outside of our two hours.

"Sorry, I needed to get out quickly so I could get ready." I stated simply.

Catherine sighed. "Alright, but be careful next time, just call out my name, I'll help you little one," She reached out and brushed a piece of my hair behind my ear. "Now, go get ready for your classes." She said firmly. I nodded, feeling a mix of relief and irritation, the audacity she had. I quickly exited the room, eager to leave the nursery behind.

After getting dressed, I went to the bathroom to brush my teeth and wash my face. The cool water helped to wake me up fully, and I felt more prepared to face the day. I contemplated the size of my stomach in the mirror. I needed to stop eating Catherine's meals, they were making me fat, as well as the fact that I needed to gain more independence and cook my own food.

No more eating her food, no more giving into her touch, no more of her overstepping my boundaries.

I walked back to my room and I grabbed my backpack, double-checking that I had everything I needed for my classes. I went to the living room to quickly exit before Catherine could stop me, I supposed I was unlikely.

"Do you want me to make you some breakfast?" Catherine asked, her tone softer now.

"No, thanks. I'm not really hungry," I replied, my mind already focused on the day ahead. I was eating way more food than I ever did at home, and the food in America was so much worse for my health.

"Breakfast is the most important part of the day," Catherine said as she went from the couch and headed towards the kitchen, "I'm going to make you some eggs, just to put something in your tummy."

I internally groaned, she was treating me like a baby, when I was clearly capable of making my own decision.

"No it's okay, I'm going to be late, thank you so much though." I replied as I headed towards the front door.

"Alright, just this once, but everyday after this you will have breakfast. Have a good day at your classes, and be safe." Catherine said as I was about to exit.

"Thanks, I will." I responded, giving her a small smile before leaving.

The walk to my first class was brisk, the fresh air helping to clear my mind. I tried to push the events of last night out of my head and focus on my studies. BIO 101 was interesting enough to keep me engaged, and by the time it ended, I felt more like myself.

PSYCH 200 was even better. The professor was engaging, and the material was fascinating. I found myself getting lost in the lecture, and for a moment, I forgot about everything else. But as the class ended, the weight of my responsibilities and the memory of last night's events returned.

After my classes, I headed to the coffee shop for my first shift. I was nervous but excited. The shop was bustling with activity, and I was quickly introduced to my duties. The work was fast-paced, but I found it enjoyable. My coworkers were friendly, and the customers were mostly polite.

As the shift went on, I began to feel more comfortable. I learned how to make different coffee drinks, took orders, and even managed to chat with a few regulars. The hours flew by, and before I knew it, my shift was over.

I headed back home, feeling more tired than I had expected. The day had been long, but I had managed to get through it. As I walked through the door, I was greeted by Catherine's warm smile.

I took off my shoes and placed them next to the door, "Hey, how was your day?" she asked, pulling me into a hug. I tensed at her touch.

"It was good. Classes were fine, and work was fine as well," I admitted. Her blonde hair brushed against my face. It tickled so I quickly moved it. Her hair was like silk, I wanted to touch it more, having a desire to braid it and play with it, but I pushed down my urges.

"I'm glad to hear that," Catherine said, her eyes softening as she placed me on her hip. "You must be exhausted. How about we have our 'Mommy and Me' time now, it's almost 5 p.m.?" How unfortunate that my tiredness was so obvious. I must look horrible.

I nodded, feeling a mix of apprehension and anticipation. I know it wasn't a real question, it was in our agreement. I had to do it.

This wasn't my choice.

"Can I shower first though?" I asked, angered that I even had to ask. I should get to choose when this "time" is anyways.

Catherine had an exaggerated look of contemplation, "Hmm, only if you ask mommy really nicely."

"Can I shower please?" I asked slightly annoyed at my infantilization.

"Please who?" Catherine asked, confusing me. I contemplated her questions for a second, before coming to the realization she wanted me to call her... it.

I bit back my pride and ego, "Please... please, mommy." I pleaded, sounding like a baby asking her mom for a new toy. That was so much more difficult than I thought.

Catherines eyes lit up and she praised me endlessly. My face was so red, and I wanted nothing more than to hide it, but I can't lean into her touch anymore, so I did the only thing I could. I covered my face with my hands, it was better than looking like a tomato.

"Is my little monkey shy?" Catherine cooed, as she tried to pry away my hands from my face. Ughh she was so annoying.

"So I need to tell you a couple of things," Catherine said as she headed to the same bathroom as yesterday. I internally groaned, what could it possibly be, "yesterday you didn't follow one of our major rules, to respect and listen to mommy. You ran out the front door which is a big no-no." I internally cringed at her word choices.

"Now I understand this is all new and you were shaken, so you won't be getting a time-out," Catherine scarily paused to raise her eyebrow, "this time, but next time I will not be as lenient. Understood?" She finished. I nodded, but apparently it wasn't enough. "I expect an answer, little one." Catherine's stern tone made any resistance in me halt.

"Yes." I responded. I answered respectfully and clearly, but Catherine once more furrowed her eyebrows.

"Yes, who?" Catherine asked, which made me once more dread my current circumstances. I knew what she wanted from me, but I didn't want to do it, alas I had to though.

"Yes, mommy." I said in a tone that was just above a mumble.

"Good girl," Catherine's once stern tone, turned into a sweet sing-song sound that rang through my ears. As much as I hated it, I hated her scary voice more, "now let's get you into the bath." She placed me on the toilet seat and I got a sense of déjà vu.

She ran the bath and when it eventually filled. She stood from her once kneeling position and walked towards me, "Arms up." Catherine demanded, making me shy away. There was no way she was going to see me naked, what?

"It's okay I got it." I said to Catherine, but she wasn't having it.

"Does someone want a visit to the time out chair?" She asked me sternly. The tone changes she could do so rapidly had to be a skill. I've never had a "time-out", but literally how bad could it be. From how Catherine threatens it, one would have thought it was the worst thing to ever happen to someone, so I didn't want it either way.

I shake my head and quickly lift my arms up. This was beyond embarrassing.

Catherine gently lifted my shirt over my head, her touch surprisingly tender despite the awkwardness of the situation. My cheeks burned with humiliation, but I forced myself to stay still, hoping to get this over with as quickly as possible.

"There's my good girl," she cooed, folding my shirt neatly and setting it aside. "Now, let's get these pants off."

I averted my gaze, focusing on a tile on the floor as she removed my pants and underwear. She guided me into the warm bath, the water soothing my tense muscles. I relaxed slightly, grateful for the privacy of the bubbles. However knowing that I am naked with someone else watching is insanely unsettling to me.

Catherine kneeled beside the tub, her eyes softening as she looked at me. "I'm proud of you for listening, monkey. It's important to follow the rules so I can keep you safe."

I remained lymph in the water, the warm water helping to calm my nerves. I couldn't drown out the feeling of infantilization, I didn't enjoy it whatsoever. She gently washed my hair, her fingers massaging my scalp. The sensation was oddly comforting, and I found myself leaning into her touch despite my resistance to it at every corner.

She made me feel so vulnerable, I shouldn't be secretly enjoying her hugs. I needed to snap out of it.

"There we go, all clean," Catherine said, rinsing the last of the shampoo from my hair. She handed me a washcloth, allowing me to wash the rest of my body. I appreciated the small bit of autonomy, even if it felt like a hollow gesture.

After I finished washing, Catherine helped me out of the tub and wrapped me in a fluffy towel. She dried me off with a tenderness that reminded me of a mother bird preening her chick. Once I was dry, she led me to the nursery, where she had already set up a set of clothes to change me into. It was a light yellow onesie, with white frilly socks.

"Let's get you changed, sweetheart," Catherine said gently, setting me down on the changing table. I lay back, trying to relax and push away the thoughts of resistance that bubbled up inside me. This was part of our agreement, and I needed to get through it. How funny, just yesterday I was on the verge of an emotional breakdown because I felt bad and now I can't feel anything but resentment.

Catherine was efficient but tender as she undressed me and slipped me into the onesie. I blushed brightly when she undid the towel that was covering the entirety of my body. The fabric was soft against my skin, and despite my earlier resolve, I couldn't help but enjoy the pure cotton on my skin. She fastened the snaps at the bottom and then helped me sit up to put on the frilly socks. I watched her movements, her focus and care evident in every gesture.

"There we go," she said, smiling warmly. "All set."

I nodded. I had always been independent, and this level of care felt suffocating. My mother pretty much let me do whatever I wanted, "pretty much" is the key word. I could hang out with friends and everything, but it's very different from the American experience.

Catherine lifted me off the changing table and carried me over to the rocking chair. She sat down and positioned me on her lap, cradling me gently. I tried to relax, letting my head rest against her shoulder.

"How are you feeling, love bug?" she asked, her voice soft and soothing.

"Tired," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. I needed to stay up though, I had homework, even though it was only the first day. Calliope also invited me to a party, but I had to decline because Josh would be there. Though I did also want to apologize to him for running out, he didn't do anything wrong.

"I can imagine," she said, stroking my hair. "You had a long day. You did really well."

I closed my eyes, letting her words wash over me, her praise was something I found myself craving. Whenever she does something typically motherly I think of me and my mother's own relationship. Mama and I never saw eye to eye. We never spoke to each other unless we had to. We never dared to touch each other. She was more like a roommate than Catherine.

I know I seek validation from teachers because of my mother, but never have I thought I'd be seeking it from my crazy roommate. Only an hour and a half before our time is over and I can go out and do normal adult things. I think I'm going to go to the grocery store.

I can't wait till I turn 18 in January, then I won't be seen as a child and rather a real adult.

Catherine suggested we prepare dinner together. "Cooking can be a lot of fun," she said with a smile. "Plus, it's a great way for us to bond."

I agreed, and we headed to the kitchen. This could be a way I learn how to cook so I don't have to eat anymore meals with Catherine, unless I have to for our "time" together.

We decided to make a simple meal—spaghetti with homemade marinara sauce. I could already feel the ten pounds I was going to gain from this meal alone. Catherine showed me how to chop the vegetables and prepare the sauce, guiding me through each step with patience and encouragement. She's so gentle. It was cute; if I wasn't forced to do this for the sake of my mother's bank account, I would have viewed her as a cute little mom.

She brought the spoon to my lips to try the sauce we had just finished. 'I'm going to gain so much weight' was all I could think as she shoved the sauce in my mouth. Initially, it surprised me, my expression apparent by the sauce that was all over my face.

"Awe, my monkey, you have it all over your face," Catherine said, grabbing a napkin from beside her and wiping off my face. She never failed to embarrass me. "How is it?" she asked as my mouth was still full.

I gulped down the little bit of sauce still on my tongue. "It's really good," I responded with a smile on my face. She lifted me off the counter and onto her hip. I squealed quietly at the unexpected movement.

"I'm so glad," she said. With me still in her arms, she prepared two plates of spaghetti and walked us over to the kitchen table. "Let's eat." She placed me on her lap. I was so confused as to why she didn't just put me on the chair across from her.

Catherine twirled some spaghetti around the fork and brought it to my lips. "Open wide, sweetie," she said, her voice soft and coaxing. I hesitated for a moment, then opened my mouth. She fed me the first bite, her eyes watching me intently for my reaction.

The taste was incredible—rich, savory, and perfectly seasoned. Despite my reservations about the situation, I couldn't help but enjoy the food. "It's delicious," I said between bites, trying to ignore the awkwardness of being fed like a child.

"I'm glad you like it," Catherine replied, twirling another forkful of spaghetti. She continued feeding me, her movements careful and deliberate. Each bite was accompanied by a gentle word of encouragement or a soft smile. It was oddly comforting, even if it was embarrassing.

As I chewed, I thought about how surreal this entire experience was. Catherine's care was genuine, but it was hard to reconcile it with the fact that I was here because of my mother's financial problems. Still, there was something undeniably soothing about the way Catherine treated me.

"You're doing so well, monkey," she said, wiping a bit of sauce from my chin with her thumb. "Just a few more bites."

I obediently opened my mouth for another forkful of spaghetti. The meal continued in this fashion, with Catherine patiently feeding me until my plate was empty. By the end, I felt full and a bit drowsy from the warmth of the food.

"There we go, all done," Catherine said, setting the fork down and giving me a proud smile. "You did great, sweetheart."

I couldn't help but smile back at the sudden praise, despite the lingering embarrassment. "Thank you for the meal." I said quietly.

She hugged me close, resting her chin on top of my head. "You're welcome, my little monkey."

I looked at the clock and saw it was after 7:00 p.m. already. I know by now our two hours are over, and I desperately needed to go grocery shopping.

"Catherine I need to run a couple of errands," I said as I tilted my head up to look at her expressions.

Catherine laughed and kissed my nose and my forehead, making me put my head back to normal and wipe my nose. "Okay love, be careful." She said as she released me from her grip.

With that I went back to my room to change into normal clothes, off I went to the store and the library.

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haii , i have a couple of dif directions i want to take the story , but ofc i want ur advice. any and all recommendations r welcomed ! hope u share ur thoughts☺️☺️.

song:

juliet by cavetown

"i need to cry, but i can't get anything out of my eyes"