It was an emotional morning as Monkey Lyly stood at the doorway, tightly holding her mother’s hand. Her mom had to leave for a short trip to visit a sick relative, and for the first time, Lyly would stay at the neighbor’s house for a day and night. Though Lyly was usually full of energy and mischief, this morning, her little heart felt heavy.
Her mom knelt down, gently brushing Lyly’s soft fur and giving her a big warm hug. “Be good, okay? Auntie Lan will take care of you, and I’ll be back before you know it,” she said with a smile, though her eyes showed just how hard it was to leave her little girl.
Lyly sniffled and nodded slowly. “Okay, Mama… but don’t stay too long,” she whispered, clearly trying to be brave.
Once her mom left, Auntie Lan warmly welcomed Lyly with open arms and a plate of freshly cut fruit. At first, Lyly was shy and quiet, sitting on the edge of the sofa with her favorite stuffed toy clutched tightly. But as the day went on, she began to warm up. She helped Auntie Lan water the plants, played with the neighbor’s kitten, and even watched cartoons while munching on snacks.
Still, every now and then, she would glance at the door or peek out the window, wondering if her mother was coming back yet. At bedtime, Lyly curled up on the guest bed and held onto her blanket. “I miss Mama,” she said softly.
Auntie Lan comforted her, promising that tomorrow would come quickly. Sure enough, early the next morning, the door opened and Lyly’s mother walked in with a big smile and open arms.
“Mama!” Lyly cried, running straight into her hug.
Though it was just one night, it was a big experience for little Lyly—one that made her grow just a little bit stronger, and even more grateful for her mom’s warm embrace.
