~ Storytime: Hippo codes ~
I was 10 minutes into a call with my bff when I saw him crawling to me helpessly.
- Mummy... he whispered. I put the call on hold.
- Tell me, sweethea—he didn’t even let me finish. Stretching his arms, he was already reaching for my lap. But more, importantly, he was holding Bubbleton. Oh no. That was our secret hippo code. Bubbleton means "I need to pee NOW"
- Hey Anne, may I call you later? I think I gotta go now... bye!
I scooped him up and nestled him into my lap, genty partin my legs a little to make room for him. He greq even redder as I told him he could let go whenever he was ready to, but his cheeks just kept flushing and his eyes started to well up.
- I think I should have picked Softrose instead... - poor baby... Softrose meant number 2.
- Shhh, baby - I cooed - I don't care what colour you pick... I know hippos mean you are looking for mama, and that's all I need to know.
He let out a small sigh and a sharp, explosive hiss filled the room. Unable to keep eye contact, he nuzzled against my chest. His diaper kept puffing up as the hiss continued, and his breath kept getting heavier until he let out a loud fart.
- You sure, mama? - he managed to grunt.
I didn't answer. I just took his head and placed it on my chest again, gently. I kissed his forehead as the diaper gre havier between my legs.
His breathing gradually returned to normal, until it settled into a gentle, steady rhythm - he had fallen asleep.
Carefully, I leaned back and draped a cozy blanket over us.
Goodnight, sleepy prince. ✨