Monkey Lyly was feeling extra curious and mischievous today. While her mother was busy tidying up their little area in the garden, Lyly’s eyes wandered to the tall grapefruit tree swaying gently in the breeze. On the lowest branch hung a bunch of young, green grapefruits — not ripe yet, but round and oh-so-tempting to her playful little heart.
Despite her mother’s clear warning earlier — “Lyly, don’t touch the green grapefruits! They’re not ready, and you’ll upset the tree owner!” — Lyly’s cheeky grin slowly crept across her face. She tiptoed closer, glancing over her shoulder to make sure Mom wasn’t looking. And then… pluck! One young grapefruit came off with a snap and tumbled to the ground.
Lyly giggled and rolled the fruit around like a ball, clearly proud of her little heist. But her fun didn’t last long. The sound of the fruit hitting the ground drew Mom’s attention immediately. She turned around and gasped when she saw what Lyly had done.
“Lyly!” her mother scolded, rushing over. “What did I just tell you?”
Lyly froze, holding the grapefruit behind her back like it could somehow disappear. Her wide eyes blinked innocently — but it was too late. The evidence was rolling right beside her feet.
Seeing how guilty and ashamed Lyly looked, her mom softened. She knelt down beside her and gently explained why picking unripe fruit was wrong — it wasn’t just naughty, but wasteful too. Lyly lowered her head, clearly understanding.
To make up for it, Mom had her help gather fallen leaves nearby and return the damaged grapefruit to the compost pile. It was a quiet, thoughtful task — and by the end, Lyly wasn’t giggling anymore. She had learned her lesson.
Even the naughtiest little monkeys have to grow up — one grapefruit at a time. 🍊🐒
