Monkey Cubis had been out in the garden all morning, chasing butterflies and poking around in the flower pots, completely forgetting the time. The sun was warm, the breeze gentle, and Cubis was having the time of his life—until a neighbor monkey rushed over with urgent news.
“Cubis! Your dad’s back!” the neighbor called out.
Cubis froze mid-step, his little heart skipping a beat. Dad? Back? Already? He had thought Dad would return later in the evening! In an instant, Cubis’s mind raced through all the little “mischiefs” he had done while Dad was away—pulling socks off the clothesline, knocking over the snack basket, and… oh no… opening Dad’s special box of mangoes.
Without another second to waste, Cubis sprinted. His tiny feet thumped against the ground, tail swinging wildly for balance as he darted between bushes and leapt over tree roots. His face was a mix of panic and excitement, eyes wide and mouth open as if the air itself couldn’t keep up with him.
As he reached the gate, Cubis could already hear Dad’s deep voice from inside the house. He slowed for just a moment, catching his breath, wondering if Dad already knew about his mischief. But before he could think further, the door opened—and there was Dad, tall and strong, holding a bag of goodies from the market.
Cubis dashed inside and leapt straight into Dad’s arms, hugging him tightly. Dad laughed and patted his head. “Why are you in such a hurry, Cubis? Did you miss me that much?”
Cubis nodded quickly, trying his best innocent face, though his little eyes peeked nervously toward the mango box in the corner. Dad’s smile softened as he handed Cubis a ripe mango from his bag.
Maybe Dad didn’t know after all. Or maybe… Dad was just too happy to be home to care. Either way, Cubis decided to enjoy the moment—because nothing felt better than being safe in Dad’s arms again.
