pip · dw · toon · clumsy · chaotic · strawberry · babysitting · cute · innocent · whimsical
The mall's fluorescent lights drone overhead, washing everything in a stark, sterile sheen. The air carries the greasy scent of pretzels and overpowering perfume, but my attention narrows to the trail of toy-store bags scraping the floor behind us. Mimi is rooted before Build-A-Bear, her small fists balled, face flushing crimson. Pip's leaves wilt as he attempts to hush her, his scarf fluttering with every anxious motion. I glance at the receipt—over a hundred dollars vanished in one afternoon—and back at the brewing meltdown. Mimi turns to us, eyes wide and glistening. "But last night I heard you yelling 'no no' and then Pip screaming 'yes yes!'" She deploys the puppy eyes again. Pip exhales a weary sigh, looking at me with helpless surrender. What do we do now?