Willing Participant

By Ouroboros

Leon awoke on a Friday morning to the usual aches and pains that come with age and activity. At fifty-five, his life hadn't exactly gone the way he had hoped. Even so, he figured he had managed to make a fairly decent life off of what he was left with. He yawned and stretched, then got up from his bed and walked to the bathroom, wincing every now and then at the pain in one leg he had dealt with nearly ever day for the past thirty years or so. The soft but well worn carpet was comfortable and familiar under his bare feet, and the floor squeaked slightly in the same spot it always had. Once he got to the bathroom, he stared at his wide, heavy frame, hairy arms and chest, and facial hair that was mostly gray now. Even the short hair on his head was making him look older than he really was. He stepped onto the scale and watched the numbers fly by until the needle finally settled on three-hundred-five pounds. Letting out a sigh, he went back to the mirror and flexed, seeing the muscle that was still left from his college days playing football, but frowned at his belly that covered his once impressive abs. He had let himself go, but still lifted weights every now and then. It was important to look big, strong, and manly for someone like him. Someone who was expected to train the next generation of sports stars. 

After brushing his teeth and using the toilet, he slowly made his way down the hall of his small home, past the trophies and awards for football and physical abilities. Even he wasn't sure why he kept all of these reminders of his past on display when he was the sole person living there. Perhaps it was to impress any would-be guests, or maybe it was in some sort of vain hope that his glory days would be returned to him. What he really wished for, while eating some quick microwaved breakfast bowl, was his youth back. Another chance to live the life he had trained and hoped for, instead of having to settle for what he had. He turned on the TV to check the weather and sports scores, but instead saw something interesting. There was a news report about a new drug being worked on that claims to restore the body's youth.

“Of course, it's decades away from even being close to clinical trials.” said the attractive female newscaster, dressed in a vibrant red suit and tie. “Scientists have learned a lot from studying how jellyfish have the ability to regress their bodies all the way back to the beginning.”

“Wow Elaine, I wouldn't want to go back THAT far.” the male newscaster joked, wearing his traditional gray suit and green tie. They both laughed, but Leon had hope. 

“Decades eh?” Leon asked no one. “If only...” He looked down at his large hands, and the rough spots on his palms from working with weights, ropes, and pull bars. The remote in his hand looked tiny in comparison. His six foot two height tended to make everything around him look small, plus it made it hard to find clothes that fit without spending a lot. He let out another heavy sigh and pressed the power button with his large thumb, then tossed the remote onto the couch. It was time to get dressed, and so he slumped off to his bedroom. Still in his boxers, he grabbed some large white socks with green stripes at the top, his large khaki shorts, and gray pocket tee. He was always grateful the school didn't make him wear anything more formal than this, considering his position as coach and teacher. He was sadly aware of his lack of knowledge in most subjects, which is why he taught physical education instead, and also coached for the high school football team.

It was the last day before Spring break, and though the students would get time off, the teachers had papers to grade and other things to get organized before they came back. He let out a groan as he went to get dressed, putting on his white athletic shoes and grabbing his trusty silver whistle and hung it around his neck. This was his uniform. The same uniform he wore nearly every day. The uniform of a gym leader and coach, although to him it felt more like a costume, or something to hide what he actually was and how he actually felt. After taking one more glance in the mirror and combing his short hair, mustache, and beard, he grabbed his wallet and keys, then made his way to his black pickup truck and drove into town. Passing by all of the familiar homes, restaurants, storefronts, and signs, he made his way to the high school. The very same high school he attended as a student before going off to college. Even though his injury forced him to retire, the school still honored him as if he were a legend. Part of him really enjoyed that feeling, but part of him wished they would just stop. It was more of a double edged sword now that seemed to cut deeper every year that went by. 

Parking in his reserved space, he got out and went inside It would be about an hour or so before students began showing up, so he made his way to the teacher's lounge. There, he saw a couple of other teachers he had been working with for the past few decades. Some of the older ones were about to retire, and new ones would take their place. There were also newer ones, as people tended to either retire or transfer to different jobs in different schools or even different cities. There were always those new faces that felt as if they were judging him, as if he were lower class. After all, this was their chosen profession, while his was more of a fall back option. At times he even felt like the job was some sort of pity position given to him by the principle, which he knew very well from his attendance as a teen. He looked at his picture, the only thing left of him there now, as the old man had passed on a few years prior. Now there was a new person running things, and it was someone who may as well have been a stranger.

“Good morning Leon.” said a tall, female with long brunette hair, wearing a gray business suit and pink tie. She was younger than him by a good twenty years, but still knew her stuff and didn't let any student nor teacher push her around. Not that Leon tried to. He was always nice to everyone.

“Good morning Gloria.” said Leon, waving to her while getting himself a cup of coffee. “Doing well this morning?”

“I am.” said Gloria. “I hope you are as well.” She knew of his physical issues. Everyone did, and that only made him feel more like people pitied him. 

“Same as always.” said Leon, smiling through the pain and sipping his hot coffee. He always added two sugars and a cream to his, as he never really liked the taste of black coffee. It was a decent enough pick-me-up though, especially on cold days. It seemed like the fuel of every adult.

“Got everything ready for Spring break?” asked Gloria.

“Almost.” said Leon. “Shouldn't take long. I'm still going to make sure the students get a good workout, even if they are about to go on break.”

“Good.” said Gloria. “Hope that leg doesn't give you too much trouble.” She walked over and made herself a cup of black coffee. 

“It acts up every now and then.” said Leon, patting his left leg. “Nothing I haven't dealt with most of my adult life though.”

“I'm sorry.” said Gloria. “I shouldn't have mentioned it.”

“No no.” said Leon. “It's fine. As principle I know you have to make sure we are all fit for work. Don't worry. I understand.”

“Well, if you ever need any assistance, just let me know.” said Gloria. “I'll be happy to help.”

“Sure thing.” said Leon. “Thanks.” With that, he left with his cup of coffee and made his way to the gym, passing by many smiling student faces, all happy that they were about to be free for a whole week. He stopped at the trophy case. Inside were some old trophies that he himself had helped the team win back in his days as a student. He smiled, looking on at the trophies won since then. There weren't as many, but there were some, and that meant the school seemed to do fine even without him. One in particular always got his attention. It was a trophy one by a former student he had coached, named Mario. He had hoped to see Mario go on to live the life he had dreamed of, but instead he used his scholarship to get a degree in medicine. Suddenly, as if on queue, a familiar figure approached him from behind. Leon saw him in the reflection of the glass trophy case.

“Hey coach.” said Mario, now in his late twenties with medium length, black hair. He appeared wearing dark blue pants and a white, long sleeve shirt with a blue bow tie.

Leon turned and looked at his former student with pride. “Mario!” he said. “Good to see you!” He gave the man a hug. He could already tell that Mario had given up on keeping his physique as large and tone as it used to be.

Mario hugged his former teacher and coach back and gave him a few pats on the back. “Good to see you too!” he said. “I hope you have been doing well.”

“Oh, can't complain.” said Leon.

“Sure you can.” said Mario, joking around.

“What about you?' asked Leon. “Been holding up okay?”

“Oh sure!” said Mario. “Got my degree, went into medical research...got married.”

“Oh really?” asked Leon. He looked and saw the wedding band on Mario's finger. “Congratulations son.”

“Thank you.” said Mario. “You know, I never understood why you didn't get married. A big name like you with a reputation like yours should be guaranteed a mate.”

“Ah, well...” said Leon. “It's complicated.”

“I'm all ears.” said Mario.

“Is that why you came to see me?” asked Leon.

“Heh, no.” said Mario. “But before I get into that, let's go see the gym. I'm sure you have students to train.”

“As always.” said Leon. The two men walked down to the gym, where they were greeted by the familiar sights and smells associated with a high school gymnasium. 

“Hasn't changed a bit.” said Mario. He looked around at the empty basketball court, soon to be filled with students in gym clothes doing exercises before playing a game. He grabbed a ball and began dribbling it on the hard floor. “I never was much good at basketball.” He stopped and aimed, then tossed the ball toward the net. It bounced off of the back board and toward the empty bleachers. 

“Doesn't look like you are now either.” Leon joked. He grabbed the ball and lined up his shot, then tossed it. It landed in the net almost perfectly. 

“Not bad.” said Mario.

“I tend to have a lot of time to practice.” said Leon. “I could never play professionally. The old leg injury would just get in the way.”

“Didn't stop you from trying though.” said Mario. “I admire that about you. I always thought life gave you a rough deal, and wished there was something I could do to help.”

“Ah, don't worry about it.” said Leon. “Nothing anyone can do. The surgeries at least allowed me to keep the ability to walk.”

“Yeah, but that's not good enough.” said Mario. “Not good enough for you. Not good enough for me. Not good enough for this school.”

“It is what it is.” said Leon. “Nothing I can really do about it. I just try and get by day by day.”

“What if you didn't have to just get by?” asked Mario. “What if you could go back to those good old glory days?”

“I'd take it in a heart beat.” said Leon. “Why? Know something I don't?”

“I may.” said Mario. “There's something I've been working on. Or rather, something the company I work for has been working on. It may help.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, white packet. 

“What's that?” asked Leon.

“Let's call it a physical improvement formula.” said Mario. “It's designed to help you burn fat, give you more energy, and even help with body aches and pain.”

“So it's some kind of body building formula for old men?” asked Leon.

“You could call it that.” said Mario. “It's still in early testing phase.”

“And you're giving it to me?” asked Leon.

“Think of it as helping me test it.” said Mario. “Besides, it's my project. I've seen results first hand, so I know what it can do.”

“It works?” asked Leon. “No side effects?”

“Unless you count looking great and feeling younger a side effect, no.” said Mario, smiling. He handed the packet to Leon.

“What do I do with it?” asked Leon.

“Just mix it with a glass of milk.” said Mario.

“Milk?” asked Leon. “I have some in my mini fridge.”

“Then what are we waiting for?” asked Mario.

“I can just take this now?” asked Leon.

“What better time?” asked Mario. “You should see the effects as the day goes on.”

“Alright then.” said Leon. “You were my favorite student. I trust you.” The two made their way into Leon's office as some students began to show up and make their way to the locker room to change. He opened the packet and dumped the powder into a plastic cup, then added some milk and stirred. The white milk slowly became brown, looking much like chocolate milk. He slowly brought it up to his lips and took a sip. “Heh, are you sure this isn't some kind of prank? This is just chocolate milk mix.”

“Haha, no, I assure you it's no trick.” said Mario. “Trust me, chocolate is much more preferable to the taste of the original formula. It took forever to get it to not taste like chalk.”

Leon sipped at the formula while his students changed and slowly made their way onto the court, and eventually drank it all. “Hmm, well, it does taste good, so good work there.” he said. “How long does it take to work?”

“Not long.” said Mario. “Once you become more active, it will work faster.”

“Okay then, good timing.” said Leon. He went out onto the court to greet the first set of students of the day. “Okay class! Everyone line up and get ready for exercise.” 

The students all lined up as ordered, most having respect for him, some even looking up to him. Others were just going through the motions. Leon led them through some jumping jacks, squats, stretches, and eventually a few laps around the gym to get everyone nice and warmed up. The air was soon filled with the sounds of sneakers squeaking on the smooth court surface. The more Leon watched, the more he wished he could run along side them. While there were many who admired him, there were those who whispered behind his back, making fun of his gut and inability to run. He never let that get to him though, at least not visibly. 

Mario stood back and watched, waiting for Leon to notice any subtle changes at all, all while trying to notice any physical changes himself. Memories of being ran through the same routine every day came flooding back, and he could imagine his younger self running around that same floor, dressed only in a light and comfortable pair of shorts and a shirt, as well as long socks and running shoes. 

After the first class was done, Leon was starting to feel more energetic. “Hmm, I think that stuff might be doing something.” he said to Mario. 

“Oh really?” asked Mario, smiling. “Tell me.”

“Well, I feel less pain in my leg for one, and my energy seems to be up.” said Leon. 

“That's good!” said Mario. “Feel like trying out that leg?”

“Maybe in a bit.” said Leon. “First I have to get the next group of students all warmed up.” He went over and addressed them with more pep in his step. Instead of keeping things inside the gym, he decided to let the class go outside onto the football field for exercise. He walked back and forth as they did what they were told, and even started to move faster. When he had them run a lap, he tried walking along with them. At first his steps were slow, but then he started making wider strides. Eventually he was actually running, and began to smile wide.

“Wow coach!” said Jason, one of his students. “You're keeping up with us today!”

“Yeah!” said Leon. “I'm feeling good today!” He became very excited, now able to move around as he once did without feeling much pain. His leg was still stiff, but much better than it had been in a very long time.

“You've got a real spring in your step coach!” said another student. The other students began to cheer him on as he ran around with them around the field. 

Mario stood and watched, smiling. 

Later on, after school had ended, Leon invited Mario over to his place for some drinks and a nice long chat. The two sat down on the couch in front of the TV, began to sip some beer, and talk.

“I'm just so surprised at how well that stuff works.” said Leon, taking a drink. “I think I even lost some weight!”

“Haha, well keep up that beer drinking and it won't last long.” said Mario, sipping on his. “You'll need to keep taking it if you want to see more results.” He had brought in a small green bag with a few items in it. “I brought you some more of the mix, and a few other things.”

“Oh, thanks so much.” said Leon. He opened the bag and looked into it, seeing several packets of the formula, a foot ball, and a stuffed teddy bear wearing a football helmet. “Uh, what's this for?”

“It's a gift.” said Mario. “That's the football I won the big game with. They let me keep it, remember?”

“Oh, are you sure?” asked Leon. “That's more for your accomplishment.”

“Well, you did coach me.” said Mario. “Besides, maybe we can go outside and toss it around a little for old time's sake.”

“And the teddy bear?” asked Leon. “Kind of odd to be giving an old man a toy.” His eyes examined the bear closely, seeing that it was a custom made one, and very well put together. The little helmet it wore was the colors of the high school team.

“Oh, my wife picked that out for you.” said Mario. “We were at a craft fair and she thought it would be a cute gift for you.”

“Oh, well, tell her I said thanks.” said Leon, putting the bear aside. He looked at the packets and back at Mario. “So just one a day or what?”

“Start with one, but don't drink more than that for now.” said Mario.

“For now?” asked Leon.

“Well, if for some reason it stops working or doesn't work as well, try having a second mid day.” said Mario. “All in moderation.”

“Ah, understood.” said Leon. “So where do you live now?”

“Not too far from here actually.” said Mario. “In the suburbs across town.”

“Oh, settled down then?” asked Leon. “Looking to have kids?”

“We want to.” said Mario. “We're trying right now actually.”

“Well, good luck!” said Leon. “I never really had the desire for kids.”

“Why not?” asked Mario. “Never even once? Maybe you could have had a son you could raise who could go on to be a big football star.”

“Nah.” said Leon. “I wouldn't want to push my dreams onto my own son. Besides, I always feel like I'm just a big kid at heart.”

“Is that a bad thing?” asked Mario.

“It could be.” said Leon. “I just never felt mature enough to handle it.”

“You're the most mature man I know.” said Mario.

“Thanks.” said Leon. “I'm glad you came to see me today. It really brought back a lot of good memories.”

“You're welcome.” said Mario. “I just hope that stuff I gave you works.”

“Well, now that the kids are on break, I should have more time to work out and really give it a test.” said Leon, patting his bad leg and wincing a little.

“Still hurts eh?” asked Mario. “Hopefully this will help. I'll swing by tomorrow and see how you're doing.”

“Thanks again Mario.” said Leon. “I can't tell you what a wonderful gift you've given me. I appreciate it so much. If there's ever anything I can do for you, just ask.”

“You're very welcome.” said Mario. The two continued to chat about life and sports until it grew dark outside. “Well, I think it's about that time.”

Leon looked at the clock and noticed the time had gotten away from him. “Oh yeah, sorry to keep you so long.” he said.

“It's no problem.” said Mario. “It was great catching up.” He stood and made his way to the door.

“Yeah, it's the most social I've been in years.” said Leon, following him to the door.

“You need to get out more.” Mario joked. He gave Leon a hug.

Leon smiled and hugged back with his large, muscular arms. “See you tomorrow.” he said.

“Yep, see you then!” said Mario. “Take care!” And with that, he left.

All alone once again, Leon walked over to the couch and looked down at the teddy bear that lay on it. He picked it up, looked at it, and smiled. In the next moment he was hugging it happily and walking towards his bedroom. He laid down in his bed and continued to snuggle the bear while memories of childhood ran through his mind. It was a time long past, but always the happiest time his mind could escape to. It was even happier than when he won so many games as an athlete. He enjoyed playing various sports as a kid, but football was always his favorite. It's funny how the teddy bear resembled one he actually owned back then. Memories of wearing football team pajamas and playing in just his underwear ran through his head. That night, he dreamed of being a child again.

The next day, Leon woke up feeling great. Though he still had some leg pain, he noticed that he seemed to have lost some weight. His boxers felt looser around his waist and he was even able to see his toes. He scooted down the hall excitedly, squeaking the familiar floor board, and went into the bathroom. He looked into the bathroom mirror, and gazed at his reflection. “My hair!” he exclaimed. “It's got less gray in it today... Did that stuff Mario gave me do this? Oh wow, what a miracle!” He walked into the kitchen to make himself some more of the chocolate milk drink. He decided to have some while eating a bowl of cereal to complete the kid-like morning experience. He even decided to sit and watch a few cartoons while he ate, and found them to be at least a little entertaining. His foot began to tap as music played, and he smiled, feeling strange feelings of youthful energy coursing through his body.

Once he was finished with breakfast, he dressed in some jogging pants and an old t-shirt. He had to tie the jogging pants a bit tighter than usual around his waist, and his shirt felt a bit more roomy than it usually did. He put on some socks and running shoes, then went outside and got into his truck, then drove to the school. He turned on the radio and listened to some music. It was an oldies station, and it was playing music popular at the time when he was a teenager. He began to bob his head and mouth the words to songs he remembered clearly. Once he got to the school, he parked and went inside. It was a Saturday and the students were off anyway, but there were a few teachers there doing paperwork and grading a few things. He decided to skip the coffee and go right to the gym. He began lifting some weights and walking around the gym when he began to feel even better. His energy was returning even more, and his leg pain was fading. He began to walk faster, then began to run. He smiled as he was able to do a few laps inside the gym without getting winded. He then began shooting some hoops while running back and forth on the court. Instead of getting tired, he seemed to get even more energetic. His legs were throbbing after being used so much, but the pain was different. It was the normal pain a person would feel after running, and not from his injury. “Man, this stuff sure works great!” he said to himself. “I feel like I could go pro again! That's a laugh. Imagine a fifty-five-year-old guy running around a field full of twenty to thirty-year-olds.” He went back to his office and looked over some papers, marking the progress of the students he taught and trained. It needed to be done, but it was far too boring for someone with his energy. He turned on the radio to listen to some music as he got his paperwork in order, but the rhythm was just too energizing. He found himself tapping his feet and swinging his hips. Finally, he got up and began to dance a little. It had been so long since his body felt this good, and he just couldn't resist. Before he knew it, it was time for lunch, and today he was feeling like having something he used to have a lot in his younger days. He decided to go down to a local restaurant and have a hot dog with some tater tots. He ate it all, then wiped away the ketchup and mustard from his face, and returned to work.

As the day went on, he was more and more distracted by things, and found himself unable to focus on his work. He decided to go out onto the football field and throw the ball around. He kept throwing it further and further, then ran to get it from the soft, green grass. He was unable to tell at the time, but his facial hair and hair on his head lost the rest of its gray color, and was now a dark brown. His shoes started to trip him up a little, so he decided to take them off, as well as his socks. The feeling of the fresh grass and dirt on his bare feet was refreshing and nostalgic, reminding him of his childhood when he would run around barefoot.  He continued to throw the ball around until it got late. “Dang, didn't get much work done.” he said to himself. “Heh, oh well, there's plenty of time.” He put his socks and shoes back on, noticing they felt a bit roomier, and headed home. 

Back home, Leon kicked off his shoes and wiggled out of his loose jogging pants. “Wow, this stuff is really making me lose weight like Mario said.” he said to himself. He stripped down to his boxers and went to look in the mirror. He was extremely pleased and somewhat shocked at what he saw. “I look like I'm back in my twenties! All of my gray hairs are gone! My leg feels great, and my body is lean and fit like it used to be!” He posed in the mirror, admiring the muscles he had hidden under the fat he gained. He could see it now, the person he used to be before the accident. “This is great! I look and feel younger! It's a dream come true!” He let his boxers fall to the floor and looked down at the rest of himself, happy with what he saw. “Mario will be here soon. I had better shower. Sure sweated a lot today.” He hopped into the shower and washed himself clean with his sporty scented body wash, singing a bit as he did. When he was done, he dried himself off and wore the towel to his bedroom. There was the teddy bear, laying on his bed, waiting to be cuddled. He threw the towel to the floor and jumped onto his large, soft, queen sized bed, and cuddled the bear. He rubbed it against his hairy cheek and smiled, curling up in the big bed and pretending to be little. For a moment, he considered revealing his big secret to Mario. Perhaps he would understand. He reached under his bed and pulled out a light blue Rubbermaid box, then opened it. He smiled down at the contents, his secret treasures. 

Just then, the door bell rang. Leon jumped up from his bed and shoved the box back in place. He quickly slipped on some boxers, gym shorts, and a tank top, then ran to the door. He opened it to see Mario standing there with a small bag. “Hi Mario!” he said.

“Hello Leon!” said Mario. “Good to see you! Wow, you look like a different man!”

“All thanks to you and your formula!” said Leon. “Come on in.” He walked with Mario to the living room and sat down on the couch.

Mario sat down next to him and smiled. “So, tell me how you feel.” he said.

“I feel amazing!” said Leon. “It's like I'm back in my glory days! I feel as young as you!” He smiled and nudged Mario with his muscly arm.

“That's great!” said Mario. “I'm so glad it's working for you. You're only taking one dose right?”

“Of course.” said Leon. “I've only had one today, and look at the results!” He stood and posed, showing off his muscles.

“Haha, I'm so glad!” said Mario. “Now, just keep it up and you'll begin to see even more improvement.”

“How can you improve on perfection?” Leon joked. “Not that I mind drinking chocolate milk, but do I have to keep taking that stuff forever?”

“Well, until you're comfortable.” said Mario. “Then you can gradually step it down.”

“Gradually?” asked Leon. “Is this stuff addictive?”

“No, but the effects can be.” said Mario. “Oh, by the way, here.” He reached into the bag he brought and pulled out a blue and white sports cap. It was the high school team colors, complete with logo. It was one of the classic hats using the design from Leon's high school days.

“Oh wow, thanks!” said Leon. He took it and put it on, though it was a bit snug. “I haven't seen one of these in years. They switched to that new design a while back. I never did like it as much. I used to have one of these, but it got torn up during training.”

“Haha, I bet it did.” said Mario. “Well, now you have one again.” He smiled, giving him a thumbs up. “Looks good on you sport.”

“Heh, thanks.” said Leon. “I've actually been feeling and looking younger. Is that stuff turning back the clock on me?”

“Oh, well, I suppose it is in a way.” said Mario. “It repaired you, and it's still repairing you.”

“I tried doing some work today.” said Leon. “But it was just too boring. I was too full of energy and wanted to be active, so I got out and ran around, lifted some weights, I even danced!”

“Hahaha, well it sounds like your youthful instincts are still intact.” said Mario. “That's good! The more you indulge, the better the formula works.”

“Indulge?” asked Leon. “Like working out?”

“Like doing things that make you feel younger.” said Mario. “Certainly, working out helps since you did that a lot when you were younger, plus it gets the formula really moving quickly. However, the real trick is the mind. Feel like doing something fun that you used to do when you were younger? Just do it!”

“Oh, well then, sure!” said Leon. “Sounds like fun.” He started having ideas of the things he really wanted to do to feel younger. “Hey, let me treat you to dinner. How about some pizza? Just like the old days whenever we would win a game.”

“Sure!” said Mario. “I'm up for pizza.”

Leon ordered the pizza and the two men waited and talked while watching TV. They shared stories of their childhoods and things they used to enjoy doing when young. Leon found that he had more in common with Mario than he thought. Both boys were given gentle nudges to take up sports by their family, however, that wasn't what Mario wanted to do.

“Yeah, they were kind of pushy.” said Mario. “I wanted to be a doctor and help people.”

“That's a noble ideal.” said Leon. “I admit I wasn't too happy when I learned you weren't going pro. I think you really could have. However, I respected your choice. I wouldn't have wanted someone telling me I should go and be a doctor when my heart was always in sports.”

“Even so, I'm glad I had you as a coach.” said Mario. “You really brought out my potential. I did consider going pro, but my education needed to come first. I worked on this muscle.” He pointed to his head.

“Understandable.” said Leon. “I'm glad you did! As a result, you have helped me a great deal. I think this formula of yours will change the world.”

“Right, which is why you have to keep it secret.” said Mario. “People are going to ask what your secret is when they see you looking so strong. Just tell them it's a new diet and exercise routine, but keep it vague.”

“Well, whenever you do go public with it, you're going to be the richest man in the world.” said Leon.

“Oh, I didn't do it for the money.” said Mario. “Like I said, I just wanted to help people.”

“No harm in helping yourself along the way.” said Leon. “Even if it's only just a little.”

“True.” said Mario. “And I guess I am, but that's also a secret.” He laughed a little, then the door bell rang.

“Must be the pizza.” said Leon. He got up and answered it, then came back with the pizza. The two men ate and talked some more about the future. As he did, Leon couldn't help but notice the feeling of energy surging through him. His body seemed to tingle, making his hairs stand on end a little. “Oooh, I felt a shiver.”

“That's to be expected.” said Mario. “As your body heals, so do your nerves, so you will be feeling tingles like that until your body gets used to it.”

“Oh, okay.” said Leon, eating another slice. “Cool.” He turned on the TV and put on a classic super hero movie. 

“Oh wow, I haven't watched this in ages.” said Mario. “Good pick sport!”

Leon smiled and nodded. “Yeah, it's one of my favorites!” he said. He sat back down and smiled, still wearing his cap while eating pizza, looking like a big kid. He felt like one too.

Mario couldn't help but notice and smile as well. He could tell that Leon had rewound some more while he was there. He almost looked like a college student. His plan was working. He too had a secret, but a different one.

After eating, Leon became sleepy. “Oh man, guess I over did it today.” he said, rubbing his eyes.

“Why not get some sleep champ.” said Mario. “I gotta go anyway. I'll be around again to check on you sometime soon. In the meantime, if you need me, you have my number.”

“Right.” said Leon. “Good having you over again. Come by any time.” He smiled and walked with Mario to the door, then gave him another hug. 

Mario hugged him back and smiled. “Good night Leon.” he said.

“Good night Mario.” said Leon. He closed the door behind him and then turned to walk back to the living room. He cleaned up the leftover pizza and put the box in the fridge, then brushed his teeth and got ready for bed. He removed all of his clothes and pulled out the secret box. “If doing things I did in my youth makes this stuff work better, then I wonder what this will do.” He pulled out something soft, thick, and white. It crinkled a little when he put it on, and he made sure to use some powder for good measure. That night he went to bed padded and snuggling his teddy bear, feeling like a small, happy child, and wishing he could wake up as one.

The next day, Leon awoke in his soft, warm bed sheets and thick disposable diaper. He pulled his sheets away and patted his diaper front. The teddy bear still lay at his side in the bed, having been lovingly snuggled over night. He got up and put the teddy bear on his pillow, then pulled the blanket up over it, tucking it in. His diaper was still dry, and he had to go, but he rarely used them since he only had a few. He took it off, careful to not tear it, and left it on the floor for now. He then made his way to the bathroom, stepping on the creaking floor board like always. Looking into the mirror, he smiled and admired his healthy young frame. “Wow, I look like I'm back in my college days!” he said to himself. He looked down at his nude form and smiled, posing in the mirror. “That stuff...it looks like it's making me younger. I wonder what would happen if I took more of it.” He thought about running around wearing a towel cape and diaper like a little boy and smiled as he brushed his teeth. There was still a slight scent of baby powder around him, which made him feel young and happy. 

After another breakfast of cereal and chocolate milk, he put on his jogging clothes again, which felt even looser than they did yesterday. Leon just smiled and set off for a jog around the block. He waved to his neighbors and admired the flowers and well maintained lawns along the street. He had driven it plenty of times, but jogging down the road allowed him to see things from a different perspective. Everything seemed so much brighter and vibrant now, whereas before things were more dull and gray. He didn't realize it at the time, but his brain was rewiring itself to take in more detail from his surroundings. His senses were sharper and more vivid. He inhaled sharply, taking in more oxygen and fueling his body. His beard was starting to look more patchy and softer, as was the body hair under his jogging outfit. His shoes felt a bit roomy, and he kept having to stop to adjust them. “Damn, I'm going to need new shoes. Probably need a whole new wardrobe.” he said to himself. By the time he got back to his house, his clothes were hanging on him. He kicked his shoes off with little effort, and ran to the mirror. It was then that he noticed his patchy beard and mustache. He watched closely and saw some of his facial hair recede into his skin. “Holy cow...I AM getting younger!” He stripped and looked himself over. His body was still physically built, but leaner and skinnier. His body hair was also more sparse and less bushy. “Definitely getting younger.” His heart began to race. “Could it really be true?” He pinched himself and felt pain. “Not a dream... This is real!” He grinned and walked back to his bedroom. There, on the night stand, was the ball cap Mario had gotten him. He smiled and put it on, then looked down at the diaper on the floor. He decided to put that on as well. “Ooh, a little loose!” He shook his rear, laughing and crinkling. He picked up the blue pacifier from his secret box and popped it in his mouth, then snatched the plush bear from his bed, and put on a cartoon. He sat on the floor, sucking on the pacifier and cuddling the plush, eagerly watching the fun cartoon, turning everything else out. He didn't even hear when Mario knocked at the door, nor when he entered.

Mario noticed the front door was open a little, and after getting no response, he opened it and walked in carrying a small brown bag. “Leon?” he called out, but got no response. He walked in, and saw a trail of clothes. He followed it to the bathroom, then heard the TV in Leon's bedroom. He slowly and quietly made his way there, and gasped at what he saw. It was a seventeen-year-old Leon, sitting there in a diaper and sucking a pacifier. He was shocked at first, but then couldn't help but smile, seeing him wearing the cap he had given him and cuddling the teddy bear. He looked like a big kid. For a moment, he considered just leaving without saying anything, but he had a plan, and decided to use this as a means to further it along. “Leon?”

Leon heard Mario and slowly turned his head away from the TV. His pacifier dropped from his mouth and a look of panic and humiliation spread across his scraggly haired face. “M-Mario!” he squeaked out, his voice cracking a little. “W-what are you doing here?”

“I came to check on you...” said Mario. “Um, should I go?”

“N-no!” said Leon, reaching out to him. “I um, can explain.”

“I'd love to hear it.” said Mario. 

Leon stood, tugging at his adult diaper. “It's just that um...well...” he shuffled his bare feet on the soft carpeted floor, looking down in embarrassment. “Life has been hard for me. Pushy parents, life altering accidents, disappointed faces, people mocking... Being an adult is hard, but being a kid is a way for me to...well, let off some steam. Some people turn to drugs or alcohol, but I tried this, and it worked. I'm not the only one either. There are others out there. I've spoken to them online before.”

“Oh Leon.” said Mario. “Now I see why you never dated. I'm guessing there aren't many girls into this?”

“Not many in the area at least...” said Leon, shrugging. “Y-you don't think I'm...wrong or weird do you?”

“Not at all.” said Mario, smiling. He walked up to Leon and hugged him tightly. “I'm glad you told me.”

Leon smiled and hugged back, sniffling a little, on the verge of crying. He had never admitted this to anyone in person before, and it was a huge weight off his shoulders. That combined with his youthened emotions made him feel vulnerable, and he wept slightly.

“Oh Leon.” said Mario. He pulled out a tissue from his pocket. “Here, blow your nose.” He handed it to Leon.

Leon blew his nose in the tissue, then wiped it and threw it into a waste basket. “S-sorry for that.” he said. “I've just had to keep it a secret for so long. I guess I have trust issues.”

“You sure do.” said Mario. “But that's okay, we can work on that. It looks like the formula is doing wonders for you!”

“Oh yeah!” said Leon. “Look at me! I think that stuff is making me younger!”

“You don't say...” said Mario, looking him over. “Well, in that diaper you sure look younger.”

Leon blushed and tugged at the diaper. “Y-yeah, but I mean my body.” he said. “Is it true? Can it really be doing this?”

“The proof is in the pudding, so they say.” said Mario. “But from what I can tell, it seems like you are happy with this.”

“Are you kidding?” asked Leon. “Of course I'm happy! It's my dream come true!”

“Then let's celebrate!” said Mario. “How about a trip to the amusement park?”

“Sounds good!” said Leon. 

“But first, I think you should get dressed.” said Mario. He reached into the brown bag he was holding and pulled out some clothes. “Here, these might fit. Unless you want to go looking like that.” He laughed and patted him on the head.

“Haha, very funny.” said Leon. He looked at the clothes, and saw they were a pair of shorts, a t-shirt, socks, and shoes. The shirt and shorts had some fun super hero designs on them. “These look like they are meant for a kid.”

“Well, you said you wanted to do things you did as a kid right?” asked Mario. “May as well dress the part.”

“Okay, fine.” said Leon. “I'll get dressed. You go to the living room. No peeking.”

“Haha, okay sport.” said Mario. He headed into the living room and sat down on the soft, brown couch to watch some TV.

Leon blushed and took off the diaper, then kicked it aside. He put on the tidy whities, followed by the shorts and shirt. He slipped on the socks, and the colorful sneakers. Everything fit nicely, and once he was dressed, he went down the hall quietly, avoiding the creaking floor, and to the kitchen. There, he smiled and mixed more of the formula into some milk, and stored it away in a sports bottle. He put on a fanny pack to hold his beverage, as well as some protein bars. Before leaving, he took a sip of the milk and smiled and walked into the living room.

“All set?” asked Mario. 

“Yep!” said Leon. “Got my sports bottle and an emergency energy bar. Just in case.”

“Well, it's good to stay hydrated.” said Mario. “There will be food at the park.”

“Yeah, but it's all so expensive.” said Leon. 

“True.” said Mario. “Good thinking!” Together they walked outside. Leon started walking to his truck, but Mario stopped him. “Nah, we can use my car. I'll drive.”

“Works for me.” said Leon. He got into the passenger side of Mario's mini van. It was a nice, cozy, silver vehicle with plenty of room.

Mario drove them both down to the amusement park, but noticed Leon getting a bit antsy. He decided to turn on the radio to a station that played music from an era long past.

“Hey, I know this song.” said Leon. “Wow, I haven't heard it since I was a kid.” He began snapping his fingers and humming along, smiling and enjoying the wave of nostalgia. More of the patchy hair on his face began to recede, giving way to smoother, softer skin. He gained a few small pimples in their place, and looked more like an awkward teenager. 

Mario noticed the subtle changes and gave Leon a look before turning the radio down. “Leon, you didn't take any extra formula did you?” he asked.

“Um, no.” said Leon. “You told me not to. Why?”

“Look in the mirror.” said Mario.

Leon folded down the mirror on his visor and looked at himself. “Ah!” he squeaked. “I'm even younger!” His surprised expression gave way to one of happiness. Then he looked at Mario. “You knew this would happen didn't you?”

“Er, well, kind of.” said Mario. “Ah well, I guess the cat is out of the bag now. Yes, I knew this would happen. Eventually. I didn't think it would happen this fast though. That's why I swear you're taking more of the formula than I told you. Unless...”

“Unless?” asked Leon.

“Unless your adult baby lifestyle and play pattern had a stronger effect.” said Mario. “The only people we have tried this on have been volunteers who were more on the fence about returning to babyhood.”

“Babyhood?” asked Leon. “You're saying I'm going to turn into a baby? A real baby?” He blushed a little, looking down at himself. His heart raced with both extreme excitement and a little fear. After all, it was his most fervent wish, but who would take care of him?

“That's the plan.” said Mario. “I was going to tell you this sooner or later anyway, but I've had this planned for a while now. You see, my wife is unable to bear children. As much progress as we have made in medical science, I couldn't cure her. So I thought if I couldn't get her pregnant, I could make a baby for her.”

“Me though?” asked Leon. “Why?”

“It should be obvious.” said Mario. “Life was very cruel to you. You worked hard your whole life to achieve your dream, but an accident caused you to lose that dream. I wanted to help you get a second chance at it.”

“I really appreciate that.” said Leon. “But why go to all this trouble? Why not just adopt?”

“The waiting list is very long.” said Mario. “Plus my wife is kind of picky. She wants a really smart child, and no matter how young you get, you will remember everything. That means all of your education will be intact, as well as your adult life.”

“I'll remember...everything?” asked Mario. “Even as a baby?”

“Yes.” said Mario. “I know this is a lot to take in, and I won't force you, which is why I decided that I would give you a choice at this point. You can keep going and be our baby, or you can stop at this age.”

“Hmm...” Leon thought. He had always thought about being very young again, maybe even a baby, but to do it for real, was that what he would really want? To be an adult trapped in an infant body? He looked at Mario, and felt like he could make a great father. He didn't know anything about Mario's wife though. He looked at himself in the mirror again, at the teen, and smiled. “I'll do it!”

“Really?” asked Mario. He smiled as well, and patted Leon on the head. “I'm so glad!”

“I mean, it would be hard going back to teaching looking like this anyway.” said Leon. “I doubt they would believe me if I told them I am me. You saw me earlier. You saw what I was wearing. I guess I've secretly longed to return to infancy in some form or other. To think I get to experience what so many others wish they could.”

“Haha, you get to live the dream buddy.” said Mario. “Diapers and all.”

Leon blushed and wiggled in his seat a little, already feeling like Mario's boy. “So, what now?” he asked.

“We celebrate the last of your former life.” said Mario. “Soon you will celebrate your new birthday after all. Most newborns don't get to celebrate their birth.”

“Newborn?” asked Leon. “I'm going to be that young?”

“You can still change your mind.” said Mario. 

“No, no...” said Leon. “I'll still do it. It just all sounds so unreal.”

“Oh it's real alright.” said Mario. “I'm so glad you turned out like you did. Look, if you ever want to wear diapers, even after you get potty trained again, I'll allow it. I think my wife would find it pretty cute too.”

Leon blushed and looked away, thinking of his future as a baby. His body was still a tall, strong, though awkward teenage one. “You really think so?” he asked. “I haven't met her yet.”

“You can meet her soon.” said Mario. “For now lets have some fun.”

“Okay!” said Leon. “But what about my job? I do have family out there. They may come looking for me some day.”

“I've already taken care of that.” said Mario. “Or rather my wife has. She works in a position that gets her close to sensitive documents. She has already forged a letter of resignation, and a note for anyone who comes looking, saying you are going traveling. It would help to have your actual signature though, while you're still old enough to write it.” He opened the glove box and gave Leon a piece of paper.

Leon looked it over, and saw that it was a volunteer contract for testing the formula first and foremost, followed by several sample signature lines. He eagerly signed them all and then thought about his new life as a baby all the way to the amusement park.

Mario pulled into the parking lot and got out of the car. He stretched and looked over at Leon, smiling at his future son. He could already picture him as a baby, especially since he had seen him in diapers.

Leon walked with Mario to the admission line and waited. His eager young body was excited for admission. He had been here several times, but not since he was a kid the first time. Once they were inside, he looked around at all of the fun rides and food stands. “Oh wow, so much new stuff is here!” he said. If he were a dog, his tail would have been wagging vigorously. 

“Yeah, they have updated a lot in the past few years.” said Mario. “Which one should we start with?”

“Ummm, that one!” Leon said, pointing to a particularly curvy roller coaster. 

“Haha, sure thing!” said Mario. They both got in line and waited. Since the students were out on Spring break, the park was quite full, and the lines were quite long. However, the ride was pretty quick and the line moved fast. Soon they were both on it, and secured into place.

“Here we go!” said Leon. The roller coaster took off with a lurch forward, then chugged along up a steep incline. At the top, Leon could see the whole park. “Oh wow, we're so high!”

“Hold onto that cap now!” said Mario.

“Oh, right!” said Leon. He took off his hat and stuffed the bill of it into the waist of his shorts, then held on tightly. As soon as the ride crested over the hill, it took off down at a high speed. “Wheeeeeee!”

“Yeaaaaaaaaah!” shouted Mario, having fun with his new son. The ride went around and around, and even through a loop, before finally coming to a stop back at the beginning.

“Wow, that was amazing!” said Leon. His voice cracked and he noticed the belt securing him in his seat had gotten loose. 

“It sure was!” said Mario. “Come on, let's go on another.” He walked with Leon, noticing that he was a bit shorter now. He also knew there was no way he would be regressing that fast unless he had taken extra formula. It was then that he noticed Leon sipping from his sports bottle. “Hey Leon!”

Leon took a long sip from his bottle and turned around. “Yeah Mario?” he asked.

“What's in that bottle?” asked Mario.

“Oh um, just some sports drink.” said Leon.

“It wouldn't happen to be the youth formula would it?” asked Mario.

“No way.” said Leon. He then let out a burp and visibly shrank about an inch.

“Let me see it then.” said Mario, holding out his hand.

“Ah, um, oh...okay.” said Leon. He gave Mario the bottle.

Mario opened the bottle and looked inside. He sniffed at the contents and shook his head, but smiled anyway. “I have to revoke your formula privileges.”

“Aww man...” said Leon, sounding more childlike. His voice was getting even higher.

“Sorry sport.” said Mario. “I'll be holding onto this. We can't have you turning into a baby right here.”

“Heheh, sorry.” said Leon. 

“We had better hurry before you get too little for most of the rides though.” said Mario. “Come on.” He took Leon by the hand and led him over to another roller coaster. This one was longer, but with less curves. They both stood in line, but Leon seemed anxious about something. Mario noticed and looked over at him. His clothes hung loosely on him now. “What's wrong?”

“Gotta pee...” said Leon, blushing and putting his hands between his legs.

“Oh gosh, then we need to get out of this line.” said Mario. “I didn't bring any diapers.”

Leon blushed brighter as he was led over to a restroom. The line there was long as well, but he was still old enough to hold it. His body was losing muscle mass though, and his stomach began to plump a little. Mario followed him, just to make sure nothing bad happened. Leon managed to make it to the toilet in time, but he entered as a teen and left as a child.

“What am I going to do with you?” asked Mario, shaking his head at the now ten-year-old Leon. The boy's clothes hung loosely on him, and his shoes may as well have been clown shoes.

Leon did the best he could to keep his clothing on while walking awkwardly with Mario. “S-sorry.” he said in a high pitched voice. He could feel some of his adult teeth vanishing His face was bereft of any signs of hair, and his body had lost even more muscle mass. It was starting to gain baby fat around his tummy, arms, legs, and face. He felt weaker as a result, being used to having a more fit and tone body. He thought he could feel himself growing smaller as they walked, and things kept looking as if they were getting bigger and bigger.

“It's a good thing there are some clothing stores here.” said Mario. “It's going to cost a lot though.” He led Leon into one of the gift shops where they had some clothes themed around the park itself, and bought some in his size. It had embarrassing pictures of cartoon animals on them, but it was something to keep him clothed at least. He also bought a few other things, and a bag to keep everything in. Parents walked with their children through the store, staring at the little boy with big clothes on. Some of them chuckled and pointed out they could see his bare bottom. Leon just blushed and tugged his large shorts back up. Mario led him into the changing room and allowed him some privacy as he got changed.

Leon easily slid out of his clothes and stood there in the buff. He looked at himself in the full length mirror and blushed. There was no longer any sign of the big, strong, hairy man he had been. No one would guess he was ever an adult now. His gaze followed his body all the way down, making him blush even harder at what he saw. He stared at the cartoonish little briefs in his hands and the shorts and shirt that accompanied it. Even the socks and shoes matched the themeing of the park. Once he got dressed, he noticed some strange red lights as he walked. He looked back and saw that his shoes lit up in back when he stepped down in them. Smiling, he stepped in place, making them light up. Everything fit perfectly, and he gathered up his old clothes and took them out to Mario.

“My, aren't you cute.” said Mario. “Haha, you're so blushy! Come on, it's not so bad. Soon you won't need them anyway.”

Leon blushed and huffed, handing Mario the clothes. “L-let's just go find something to ride.” he said, sounding like a grumpy little boy.

“Aww, what's wrong?” asked Mario. “You knew what would happen if you kept taking more. This is what you wanted isn't it?”

Leon shuffled his feet and blushed, nodding and smiling.

“I thought so.” said Mario. “Now come on, we have to show you off.” He took Leon by the hand and led him outside. “Hmm, not many rides you can get on now. Oh, how about this one?” He led him over to a carousel with colorful, painted horses and carriages on it. There were only a few people in line, but some of them Leon recognized. They were former students.

Leon gulped and tugged at Mario. “B-but those are s-students.” he whined. “They'll notice me!”

“Nonsense.” said Mario. “Why would they believe you used to be an adult? No go on, have fun. Get on a nice horsey and I'll take your picture!” He playfully shoved Leon forward, having fun at his expense.

Leon climbed up onto the carousel and looked around. He looked up at a couple of his former students, but they merely saw him and resumed what they were doing instead of talking to him. It was true, they didn't recognize him. Even so, he felt so strange being a child among them now. Everything, including them looked so large to him now. He picked out a nice and colorful unicorn along the outside of the carousel and climbed up onto it. Even though he was weaker, he was still able to climb well enough. Plus most of the horses were meant for very little children, and he wasn't quite that little...yet.

Mario pulled out his phone and began taking pictures of Leon once the ride started. He smiled and waved at his new son, who smiled and waved back while blushing and holding onto the plastic unicorn.

Leon held on for dear life as the unicorn went up and down on its pole. He wasn't afraid until it started moving. The roller coaster didn't bother him before, but somehow this did, and he found himself gripping it tighter and tighter. The ride sped up, and so did his regression. He felt his clothes begin to flap around him in the wind and the unicorn itself seemed to expand under him. Still, he held on until it stopped and then slowly got off. He hiked up his shorts and stepped down a long step that hadn't been so steep before, then walked up to Mario.

“Have fun?” asked Mario.

Leon nodded and blushed, looking up at him. “Yeah.” he said, smiling with gaps in his teeth. His cheeks were rosy and plump, and his tummy bulged a little under his loose shirt.

“You must be hungry after all this excitement.” said Mario. “I know you brought snacks, but how about we have a proper lunch?”

“Sure!” said Leon. The gap in his teeth made him whistle when he pronounced the S, making him sound all the more cuter. The two walked over to a vendor selling hot dogs and other fair foods. 

Mario bought them both a hot dog, some fries, and a drink, then made his way over to a picnic table with Leon to eat. “Go ahead, eat up sport.” he said, giving Leon his food.

Leon happily ate his kid food with gusto, getting ketchup and mustard on his face and hands. He gulped down his soda and wiped his face and hands on his shirt, then smiled. “All done!” he said.

“You definitely have the kid behavior down.” said Mario. “It shouldn't be hard at all convincing everyone that you're an actual child.” He pulled out some wipes he had bought at the shop earlier and wiped Leon's face and hands, as well as his shirt. It was still stained, but it wasn't a total mess. “Messy eater.”

Leon blushed, but smiled, sitting there being cleaned up like a child. He looked at his little hands and noticed how small, soft, and pink they had gotten. They weren't the well-worn hands of an adult, but the small, soft, weak hands of a child. He clenched his fist and then opened it, looking at the whites of his palms gain a bit of a red hue from blood rushing to them. He hopped down from the bench and nearly lost his shorts, catching them just in time.

“Well, now where to?” asked Mario. “You're too small for more rides, and you'll only get smaller. How about the arcade?”

“Sure!” said Leon. He blushed while walking by a sign indicating you must be a certain height to ride. He compared himself to it just to see, and was a few inches short. 

“Sorry sport.” said Mario. “Not this ride.”

Leon looked to see that it was a ride where the seats spun around. There were a lot of kids riding them, and a lot of teens, but none as young and small as he was now. As he continued to walk, it felt like he was going down stairs as his line of sight grew shorter. His hair, normally cut short, began to grow a bit longer, looking softer and shinier. His cheeks plumped a little more, and his limbs grew more baby fat. 

Finally at the arcade, Mario helped Leon around, holding his hand. They were surrounded by the familiar and fun sounds of video games and pinball games, and bright neon lights. The floor was black with colorful geometric patterns on it, and there were kids of all ages there playing. After some looking, they came across a real classic.

“Pac-Man!” Leon shouted. “I haven't played that in years.”

“Well then.” said Mario. He gave some quarters to Leon. “Have at it sport.”

“Awesome!” said Leon, pumping the quarters into the machine. They landed inside with a satisfying thunk against the other coins inside. He stood with his head at just the right level to see the game, and gripped the joystick. The game started and he began guiding the yellow sphere around the maze, avoiding the ghosts. Since he hadn't played it in a long time, his skills were off, but his reaction time was sharp now that he was young.

Mario smiled, watching the little boy play. He helped tug Leon's shorts up any time they would fall down so he could concentrate on the game. 

Leon played until he ran out of lives, then looked around for more fun. “I wonder what else they got.” he said, walking down the row of large arcade machines. Mario smiled and watched as Leon's little shoes lit up when he walked. They were looking a bit big on him now though. There was another one that got Leon's attention. “Oooh, Space Invaders!” He walked over to it and put in a couple of quarters, then began playing. He was doing well at first, and got through the first two rounds, but then his hands started slipping. The arcade stick felt bigger in his hands and his height began to lower, making it more difficult to keep his eyes on the screen. His shorts fell to his ankles, but Mario tugged them back up. Leon took his eyes off the game and blushed, then lost his last ship. “Dang.”

“Oh well.” said Mario. “How about we try one of those crane games? You could get a toy!”

“Oooh, yeah!” said Leon. “I was never very good at those, but lets try!” He walked over to one, holding his shorts up, and taking high steps to keep his shoes on his shrinking feet. The gaps in his teeth were starting to fill with baby teeth, pushing out from his gums. He ran his tongue over them, feeling his gums tingle.

At the crane game, Mario put some coins in and let Leon guide the claw around. “Careful now.” he said. “Find the right spot.”

“Yeah...” said Leon, concentrating. He saw all of the colorful plush toys in the machine, but had his eyes on a Batman plush. He wiggled the controls and pushed the button. The claw came down, then grabbed the toy by the head and pulled upward. The toy was dislodged, but fell from the crane's grasp.

“Awww, try again sport.” said Mario, putting in more money. “I think you loosened it up.”

“Yeah!” said Leon, smiling up at him. He played again, aiming for the same toy. He pushed the button and the crane went down, then closed around it. This time it caught the plush under the arms, and pulled it from the plush prison. Leon watched with glee as it was carried over to the small door on the side and let go. He eagerly opened the door and grabbed the plush. “Yay! That was awesome!” He blushed at the sound of his voice, then looked down at himself. His clothes were hanging on him. His shorts were hanging down past his knees, and the bottom of his shirt drooped down nearly to his knees. His shoes were floppy, but still lit up when he walked. “Uh oh, getting too small again.”

“We had better go.” said Mario. “Before you need diapers for real.”

Leon blushed and nodded, holding his Batman plush closely. He tried walking, but kept tripping over his big shoes.

“Here, let me help.” said Mario. He bent down and removed Leon's shoes, depositing them in the bag. He then picked up the dwindling boy and carried him through the park, back to the entrance.

Leon had once been taller than Mario. Seeing things from this vantage point was familiar, but seemed strange now. He looked down and saw how far he was from the ground, then wrapped his small arms around him and held on tightly.

Mario just smiled and carried Leon out of the park and to the car, where he sat him down on his feet for a moment. “Wait here.” he said, going to the trunk. He opened it and pulled out a cream colored child's safety seat. 

“A booster seat?” asked Leon. “For me?”

“That's right!” said Mario. He opened the rear door and installed it into an open seat. “You're too little to ride up front and without one of these now. Gotta stay safe.”

“Um, right.” said Leon, blushing. He felt himself get picked up under his arm pits and placed into the soft, secure seat. It was adjustable to different sizes, and could accommodate any child from age one to six.

“Ready to go home?” asked Mario.

Leon nodded. “Your home?” he asked in a mewling little boy voice. 

“That's right.” said Mario. “My wive is waiting for us. She can't wait to meet you.”

Leon blushed and smiled, feeling his little heart flutter with excitement. He was about to meet his new mommy for the first time. He wondered what she looked like and how she would treat him. He hoped she would like him.

Mario drove them both to his home, which was a medium-sized, two floor home with plenty of room for a little one to run around. The front and back yard were large and had a few large trees for shade and possible future tree houses. Leon could imagine playing on some swings and slides in the yard, and having a water balloon fight when he was old enough. It was such a strange concept, thinking about things he wanted to do as an older child. Time was still ticking backwards on him after all, and soon he would be a tiny newborn. The thought sent shivers down his little spine, and made him smile. Mario pulled into the garage and parked, then got out. He helped little Leon out of the car, noticing he had grown smaller during the drive. He felt lighter and his clothes were trying to fall off of him. As such, he carried him into the house to meet his wife.

Leon looked around at the large, impressive house. It was spotless, smelled of clean linens. The floor was hard wood in places, and a light gray carpet in others. The walls were white, and there were wood accents. Along the wall was an area with pictures of Mario and his wife getting married. Leon was about to get a good look at her, when he heard her voice.

“Oh, is that him?” she asked, coming in from the hallway. 

Leon looked and saw her. She was a tall woman with average build, with peachy skin and long, curly, brunette hair. She wore a long brown skirt and long sleeve white top, and a pearl necklace. Her face was very pretty and her voice was very motherly. 

“Yep, this is our little bundle.” said Mario, hoisting Leon up in his arms. 

“Hello there little one.” said the woman. “My name is Grace, but you can call me mom or mommy.” She smiled tousling his hair.

Leon blushed brightly and smiled. “N-nice to meet you.” he said. “M-m-mommy.”

“Awww, so sweet!” said Grace. “Let me hold him.” She plucked him from Mario's arms and cradled him. “I thought he wouldn't be ready for another couple of days.”

“Well, there's a story there.” said Mario. “Come on, let's sit down and chat.”

Leon blushed, knowing what they were about to talk about. He laid in Grace's arms as Mario explained about the diapers and baby things, and how eager Leon was to become a baby. He hid his face with his hands, feeling so embarrassed.

“Awww, there's no need to be shy.” said Grace. “I find it rather cute! Such a big man you were, but secretly you were just a little baby boy on the inside. She tickled his chin and cuddled him closely.

“Y-you fink ish cute?” said Leon, suddenly having a toddler's lisp. He had shrunk a whole year while the two talked.

“I sure do!” said Grace. “I just love little babies, and I'm so glad you agreed to become ours.”

Leon wiggled and blushed, being swallowed by his clothes. He just smiled and shed a few tears, sniffling a little.

“Aww, don't cry.” said Grace. “Such a sweetheart. You poor thing. Mario has told me all about your accident. Such a shame, but that's all in the past now. We will raise you and take good, loving care of you.”

Leon just giggled and continued to cry a little. It felt so great having a loving family that would take care of him the way he always wanted. They even didn't care that he was a closet adult baby. They loved him, diapers and all.

“Poor baby.” said Grace, drying his tears with his shirt. “I know how to make those tears go away.” She easily tugged his little socks off and tossed them to Mario, then began tickling his bare feet. “Coochie coochie coo!”

Leon squirmed and suddenly felt vibrant tickles on his young, tender soles. He soon began to giggle loudly, filling the room with his squeals.

“Hehehehe, that's better!” said Grace. “My little boy has the cutest laugh.” She continued to tickle his soft, pink little feet, feeling him grow lighter in her lap as she did. “Awww, my little man is getting so little!” She playfully wiggled one of his tiny toes and tickled him some more, making his face turn red as he laughed even louder.

Leon felt the giddy tingles run through his little body as he couldn't help but laugh. It was hard to believe the babyish squeals were coming from his mouth. He felt happy and warm all over, and soon felt a warmth growing somewhere else.

“Oh my!” said Grace. “Uh oh, someone had a little accident!” She stopped tickling him upon noticing a warmth spreading down her leg, and looked down to see a growing dark yellow spot on the front of his very loose white shorts.

Leon slowly stopped giggling and blushed, realizing what he had done. He could feel the urine flow forth around his crotch and had no way to stop it. “Uh oh!” he squeaked. “S-s-sowwy!”

“Aww, it's okay.” said Grace. She removed his shirt and wrapped it around his waist, keeping the wet shorts and underwear within them, and then got up from the couch. “Time for a bath!”

“I'll clean up the floor.” said Mario. “Good thing we have plenty of diapers.” He smiled, still enjoying teasing Leon about the diapers.

Leon blushed, but smiled. He felt so small and light in the large woman's arms. Everything looked even more gigantic than it did before, and he was about to get his first bath as Grace and Mario's son. He could feel the warm urine cooling on his skin, fascinated by how actual incontinence felt. 

In the large, white tile bathroom, Grace stripped Leon of all his clothing, tossing it into the laundry basket. She stood him on his feet by the tub as she ran some warm water.

Leon finally got a good look at himself. He was a chunky little toddler with limbs rolling with baby fat. His tummy protruded, obscuring the view of his crotch. Curiously, he pulled it back to see, and blushed hotly at what he saw.

“What's wrong?” asked Grace. “Silly boy. When you're little, you're little all over.” She smiled and added some baby bubble bath to the water, then swirled it with her hand until bubbles formed.

Leon blushed more at her words, but looked at the fun, bubbly water. The scent was one that awoke several childhood memories. It was like bubble gum and soap. He was soon lifted and deposited into the tub gently. He could feel the warm water cover his little feet, then chubby little legs. It felt good when it washed over his wet, cooling crotch, and then covered his tummy. He sat in the huge tub and playfully splashed around in the water. There were some bath toys nearby, such as a rubber ducky, a rubber shark, and small toy boat. He eagerly played with the toys in the water while Grace simply watched and smiled. Mario soon joined her and both looked down at their adopted son with love and adoration. Though is mind was still intact, Leon's infantile instincts were taking hold, and his body tended to go on automatic pilot. He played and splashed happily, occasionally putting the toys in his mouth to chew on. Suddenly, he felt a warm rush of water on his head. He wiped the water from his face and looked up to see Grace with a small cup.

“Time to wash that baby hair of yours.” said Grace. She squirted some baby shampoo onto Leon's mop of soft, baby hair and began rubbing it in.

Leon closed his eyes and giggled as he was being washed. He wasn't used to this kind of attention, yet it is what he always wanted. He didn't remember much about his own early childhood, other than that he had a bed wetting problem until age six. 

Grace poured more water over Leon's head and rinsed him off, then began washing his face, ears, neck, chest, tummy, groin, legs, and feet. She smiled and made sure his cute little tushy was clean, then plucked him from the tub and began draining the water.

Mario was ready with a dry, fluffy, yellow towel that had a duck hood on it. He wrapped it around Leon, drying him off, and also wrapping him up in it all snug and comfy. “I think our little man is ready for the final dose.” he said, holding him and smiling.

Leon blushed and looked around. “Finaw dose?” he asked, feeling so small already.

“Yes, this last dose will complete your regression to infancy.” Mario explained. “It will halt the effects of the formula right ate the newborn age. I must warn you though, you may find it a bit scary when your fontanels begin opening. We aren't meant to be fully aware of it as babies, so it may feel strange.”

“F-font...f-f-fontah...” said Leon, struggling to say the big word.

“Fontanels.” said Grace. “In other words, your head will have a soft spot again. Your brain will shrink, but then start to grow again, so just like any other baby, it will need room to do so.”

“Oh...” said Leon. He understood fully, but for some reason big words were hard for him to say. He had to wrestle with his tongue a bit.

“Also, we will need to rename you.” said Grace. “I've been thinking of some cute names. What do you think of the name Oliver?”

Leon thought about it and bounced it around in his head a little. He was so used to being called Leon his whole life. That means this really would be a whole new life for him. After a while, he nodded his little head and smiled. “Yah.” he said. “I wike.”

“Good!” said Grace, wiggling one of his exposed toes.

“So, are you ready?” asked Mario, rocking Leon in his arms a little.

Leon nodded softly again and smiled, giving a tiny thumbs up. “Weady.” he said.

“Aww, such a brave little boy!” said Grace. She went to the kitchen and retrieved a baby bottle from the fridge. She shook the bottle and then sat down in a rocking chair in the living room.

Mario handed Leon over to her, still bundled in the ducky towel.

Grace smiled and held Leon in one arm then offered him the bottle with the other. “Here you go sweetie.” she said in a motherly tone.

Leon was now only two-years-old, and maybe a bit old for a bottle, but that wouldn't last long. He latched on and began to suckle. He tasted the cool, creamy, chocolate formula and felt it run down his throat. It tasted a little different than the previous formula, but obviously still used the same flavor. It took him a few tries, but soon he was suckling from the nipple like a pro. He could feel strange tingles all over his body as the formula went to work. He blinked a few times, and each time he opened his eyes, he had gotten even smaller. He looked at his little hand and watched it shrink, growing softer and pinker. He could feel his exposed feet slide up into the towel, now completely covered. His face took on even more of a cherubic look, and his cheeks became rosy and plump. His cute little upturned nose shrank, as did his ears. The hair on his head began to thin and soften, becoming a much lighter shade of brown. He was only a year old now, and dropping fast. He began to lose control of his limbs, and he kicked his little feet and flailed his little arms helplessly. He looked up at Grace and Mario's smiling faces looking down at him, and felt secure in her arms. They seemed to grow in front of him, as did everything. His little digits took on the plump, chunky look of babyhood, and his limbs were inflating with more baby fat. His tummy protruded, and he could feel his baby teeth receding into his gums. He continued to suckle, swallowing every last drop of the formula.

Grace removed the bottle and placed Leon over her shoulder, patting his back.

Leon cooed softly and soon let out a tiny, baby burp. He smiled and wiggled his little limbs as he was removed from the towel. He felt the cold air on his baby soft skin and shivered. “Ah bah gah!” he babbled, unable to form words now. He looked surprised at his inability to talk, which only made him look cuter.

Grace carried him down the hall and to a new room they had yet to show Leon. “Here is your new room.” she said, showing him his nursery.

Leon looked around the baby blue nursery and though his vision was blurring, he could make out a wooden crib, changing table, and lots of toys. He smiled and cooed happily as he continued to dwindle. He wiggled his tongue around and felt the last of his teeth pull into his gums, then looked around a bit shocked. His hair grew even more soft and wispy, and his skin grew thinner and softer. He felt a sudden rush of tickles in his head, and his skin tingled. Like Mario said, his fontanels were opening, and his soft spot was reforming. His little limbs curled up and his hands curled into little fists. His eyes closed automatically as he grew smaller still. His thoughts simplified, now simply focused on what he could feel and smell. The next thing he felt was the cool sensation of the wooden changing table on his backside. He grunted a little and squirmed, opening his eyes and looking around. He could see blurry images of Grace and Mario. His other senses seemed to compensate for his loss of vision. He could hear their breathing and smell their scents. He knew they were there, and he knew he was safe. His belly button protruded and he felt extremely weak. His new life had just begun.

“Awww, he's so tiny!” said Grace. “Just look at him Mario! Our little boy was just born.”

“Welcome to our family Oliver.” said Mario. He held out his hand to the tiny newborn lying on the changing table.

Oliver saw the hand come into view. His tiny hand automatically reached out and grabbed one of Mario's fingers. It was huge! He couldn't believe just how small he was now. It was hard to articulate his feelings to them, but he managed to smile and gurgle a response.

Grace shed tears of joy at the sight and leaned down, giving Oliver a kiss on the forehead. “My sweet, precious baby boy.” she said. She got out a tiny, newborn sized disposable diaper with Sesame Street characters on it, and gently lifted Leon by his ankles, then slid the open diaper under him. She sprinkled a bit of baby powder into it, and onto his bottom, then pulled the front of the diaper up between his tiny legs and taped it snugly across his waist. “There, the first of many diapers in your new life.” She picked him up and held him closely, rocking him.

Mario smiled down at him and put his arm around Grace. “I've never been happier.” he said.

“Me neither.” said Grace. “How about you, Oliver?”

Oliver smiled and cooed softly, then laid his head on Grace's chest. He let out a big yawn and felt all snug, comfy, cozy, and loved. He felt a small rubber pacifier being placed into his mouth, and his body reacted automatically by suckling on it. His world had grown much smaller, much like him. Now all that mattered was himself and his mommy and daddy. It had been a very long day and his weak little body was exhausted from moving around. His eye lids closed and his suckling slowed. Soon he fell asleep in his mommy's arms, and dreamed sweet baby dreams in his little crib.

Leon could not have found a more loving family to be adopted by. His most fondest wish had come true. It was a real miracle! It was also just as Mario said. As he grew, he retained all of his adult memories, although now it seemed like a long time ago, or a far off dream. This, of course, only helped him learn things faster and become a more capable person. Like they promised, they would let him wear a diaper even many years after he had been potty trained. Grace would even make some large size baby clothing for him to wear as he grew. It was his little secret that he got to live at home any time he wanted. Grace and Mario would always be very proud of their son, and they all lived very happily ever after.

The End