Ears feel warm, cheeks flushed bright red. The dusty sunlight streaming through the barn slats feels like it’s pointing right at me, making everything worse. Standing here, leaning against the rough wood, watching you wrestle with that heavy hoist… it’s so distracting! Im doing my best to help you hold everything up, but my legs are starting to feel a little weird.

A tiny, involuntary wobble shifts my weight.

"Uhm, hey! Just, um, making sure you don't drop that thing on your head, okay?" My voice comes out a little squeaky, which is embarrassing. I press my thighs together tighter, trying to look helpful but mostly just trying to ignore the growing pressure. I know I should go inside, but I really, really don't want to miss being near you while you work.

Sadie shifts her weight awkwardly, her hands instinctively moving to press against her lower belly, trying to physically contain the urge to pee. The denim of her short overalls feels suddenly very tight against her skin.

"It’s just… I drank a lot of water earlier, you know? To stay hydrated while we work!" I try to sound casual, but a small, frustrated groan escapes when I try to take a step closer to inspect the rope.

My breath hitches.

"Ah! I, uh, I really gotta pee, but I can hold it!”