Hike Gone Awry
Abobowec.
The sun filtered through the dense canopy of trees as Mia led the way on their hike, her confident strides a stark contrast to Runa’s hesitant steps. Runa had always admired Mia’s adventurous spirit, but she was quickly realizing that hiking wasn’t exactly her forte. Her legs were already sore, and the thought of needing to pee in the middle of nowhere made her stomach churn with anxiety.
"Mia," Runa said hesitantly, shifting uncomfortably. "I really need to pee."
Mia stopped walking and turned to face her friend with a mischievous grin. "Well, there’s no bathroom out here. You’ll just have to go behind a tree like everyone else."
Runa’s face flushed red at the suggestion. "No way! I can’t do that—it’s so embarrassing!"
Mia chuckled softly. "Come on, it’s not that big of a deal. Just find a bush and squat down. No one will see you."
But Runa shook her head adamantly. "I’m serious—I can’t. What if someone hears me? Or what if I miss and get my pants wet?"
Mia rolled her eyes playfully but didn’t push further. They continued hiking, though Runa’s discomfort grew worse with every step.
"What if someone sees me?" Runa asked nervously.
"We’re alone in this reserve. There are no people around for miles," Mia reassured her.
Finally, unable to hold it any longer, Runa reluctantly crouched behind a tree. But just as she began to relax, a loud crackling sound echoed through the woods.
"AAAAH! IT’S A BEAR! RUN!" Mia shouted dramatically.
Panicked, Runa bolted upright, tripped over a root, and landed flat on her back. In her terror, she lost all control and completely soaked her pants. Lying there, she thought bitterly, Well, at least if a bear eats me now, I won’t have to feel embarrassed about this.
"Hahahaha! Oh my god, Runa, you should’ve seen your face!" Mia burst out laughing, clutching her sides. "I was kidding! There aren’t any dangerous animals in these woods. Seriously, chill."
Runa groaned, staring up at the sky. The wet patch on her pants was unmistakable, spreading coldness across her thighs.
"Great. Now how am I supposed to walk back home like this?" Runa muttered miserably.
"Oh, I might have a solution," Mia said casually, rummaging through her backpack. She pulled out a thick, bulky diaper adorned with cartoon patterns.
Runa stared at it incredulously. "Wait, why do you even have a diaper in your bag?"
"Well, I don’t just go hiking, you know," Mia explained matter-of-factly. "I recently did some big wall climbing—a two-day climb. Not exactly convenient places to pee when you're scaling cliffs. Guys can use bottles, but for us girls, diapers are practical. Trust me, they save a lot of hassle."
She handed the diaper to Runa, who eyed it skeptically. "Why is it so thick and... childish-looking?"
Mia smirked. "In extreme sports, sometimes you need to embrace the absurdity. Besides, it adds a touch of professionalism, right?"
Runa sighed deeply, defeated. "Fine. But how do I even put this thing on?"
"Easy. Lie down on the leaves." Mia gestured for Runa to follow her instructions. Reluctantly, Runa complied, lying awkwardly on the forest floor. With practiced ease, Mia slid the diaper under Runa’s bottom and secured it snugly with the sticky tabs. She patted the front lightly for good measure.
"There. All set," Mia announced cheerfully.
Runa stood up cautiously, feeling the unfamiliar bulk between her legs. "Ugh, this feels weird. So uncomfortable."
"Don’t worry," Mia said reassuringly. "Remember, we’re the only ones out here. No judgment zone."
"Thanks for reminding me," Runa grumbled sarcastically. "Now what?"
"Let’s head to the stream. We’ll rinse off your pants and then make our way back to the car."
As they walked, Runa couldn’t help but feel utterly humiliated. Every step reminded her of her accident and the ridiculous diaper she was now wearing. Yet, despite everything, Mia’s teasing was oddly comforting. It took the edge off her embarrassment, making the situation almost... funny.
When they finally reached the car, Mia glanced at Runa with a sly smile. "So, whose place are we going to? Yours or mine?"
Runa shot her a glare, though it lacked real anger. "If I say yours, will you promise to burn these diapers afterward?"
Mia laughed heartily, clearly delighted by the turn of events. "Not a chance. These might come in handy someday—for both of us."
And with that, the two climbed into the car, leaving the forest—and Runa’s dignity—far behind.