gradual regression

As Nanny Malory's words sank in, Rebecca felt a rush of conflicting emotions. The idea of regressing to toddlerhood was daunting, but the prospect of a gradual transition seemed more manageable. With a deep breath, she made her decision.

"I... I think I want to start gradually," Rebecca said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Nanny Malory's expression softened, though a hint of sadness flickered in her eyes for a moment. However, she quickly regained her composure and nodded understandingly. "Of course, dear. We'll proceed at your pace."

As Nanny Malory brought the van to a complete stop, Rebecca's heart raced with anticipation. But as she tried to reach for her seatbelt, she found herself unable to unbuckle it. Panic began to rise within her until Nanny Malory spoke up.

"Ah, dear, it seems you've encountered a child lock," Nanny Malory explained calmly. "Don't worry, only adults can unlock it."

"Oh," Rebecca mumbled, cheeks flushing with embarrassment. She glanced down at Nanny Malory's speical armband, indicating her status as adult. Nanny Malory, with practiced ease, reached over and unlocked Rebecca's seatbelt before offering her a reassuring smile.

"Come along now, dear," Nanny Malory said gently, extending her hand towards Rebecca. "Let's go inside and begin your journey."

Feeling a mixture of embarrassment and gratitude, Rebecca took Nanny Malory's hand, allowing herself to be led out of the van and towards the entrance of the facility.

As Nanny Malory and Rebecca approached the front desk of the facility, they were greeted by a kind-looking woman in her thirties. Her warm smile put Rebecca slightly at ease, but she couldn't shake off the nervous flutter in her stomach.

"Hello, Nanny Malory," the woman said cheerfully. "How are you today?"

Nanny Malory returned the greeting with a smile of her own. "I'm doing well, thank you. I have a new student with me today."

The woman's gaze shifted to Rebecca, her expression friendly but tinged with curiosity. "And who is this young lady?"

Nanny Malory stepped forward, gesturing towards Rebecca. "This is Rebecca Anderson, one of the new students."

The woman's eyes sparkled with interest as she turned her attention back to Rebecca. "Well, hello there, Rebecca. Welcome to our facility."

Rebecca managed a shy smile in return, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sudden attention.

The woman's tone then shifted slightly, her grin taking on a teasing quality. "So, Nanny Malory, at which level is Rebecca starting?"

Nanny Malory's response was prompt. "Rebecca will be starting at the primary school level."

The woman's demeanor suddenly shifted, her smile turning into a menacing grin. "Ah, primary school. Well, even if you get to keep your big girl privileges for now," she said with a teasing tone, "it won't matter in the end. You'll be a diaper-filling toddler before you know it." She punctuated her statement with a playful wink.

Rebecca felt a wave of discomfort wash over her at the woman's words.