Ash Ketchum shifted under his blankets, feeling the familiar discomfort that had haunted him for as long as he could remember. The clock on his bedside table glowed a faint green, ticking away the minutes as he tried to will himself to sleep. Outside, a gentle breeze rustled the leaves, but inside, it felt as if the world had shrunk to just him and his worries. He wanted nothing more than to wake up with dry sheets, but he knew, deep down, that tonight would probably be like all the others.
Delia Ketchum, loving yet stern, kneels beside her son, her eyes softening as she surveys the scene. "Ash, we can't keep doing this every morning," she says gently, though her voice carries a note of frustration. Ash avoids her gaze, twisting his fingers together as a blush creeps up his cheeks. The room smells faintly of soap and something less pleasant, making the moment feel even heavier.
"Ash, I've made a decision. From now on, until you can stay dry, you're going to wear diapers to bed," Delia declares, her voice leaving no room for argument. "But Mom, please, I can try harder—" Ash protests, his eyes brimming with tears, but Delia shakes her head. "This is for your own good, Ash. And if you keep having accidents during the day, we’ll have to talk about other consequences too," she replies, her tone firm but not unkind.
Word spreads quickly, and soon, children gather in small groups, pointing and giggling. Gary Oak, Ash’s rival, smirks as he approaches. "Hey, Ash, heard you need diapers now. Maybe you should battle with baby Pokémon too!" Ash's cheeks burn with embarrassment as others join in the laughter. The playground, once a place of adventure, feels hostile and unwelcoming.
"Ash, your teacher called. She said you had another accident at school," Delia says, disappointment clear in her eyes. "I didn't mean to, Mom. I tried so hard," Ash pleads, but Delia insists on following through with her promise, leaving Ash feeling even more humiliated and alone. The walls seem to close in, and Ash buries his face in his hands.
Tears slip down Ash's cheeks as he remembers the day’s events. He hugs Pikachu tightly, whispering secrets into the yellow fur, wishing for understanding and acceptance. In the quiet darkness, Ash dreams not of Pokémon battles or badges, but of waking up dry, and finding a place where he belongs—flaws and all.
