Cubis the little monkey woke up early that morning with a huge smile on his face. It was market day—his favorite day of the week! He loved riding on Dad’s shoulders, tasting sweet snacks, and pointing excitedly at all the colorful fruits and funny toys. He had been talking about it for days.
But when Dad finished his breakfast, he looked a little worried. “Cubis,” he said gently, “today I have to carry a lot of heavy supplies from the market. It will be too tiring for you. I need you to stay home with Mom this time.”
Cubis froze. His smile vanished. “No! I want to go!” he shouted, stamping his tiny feet. He crossed his arms tightly and puffed out his cheeks in frustration. Dad tried to explain again, but Cubis wasn’t listening anymore. His little heart felt betrayed.
He turned away and refused to look at Dad. When Dad tried to give him a goodbye hug before leaving, Cubis pushed his hand away. “I’m not talking to you!” he growled. The door closed, and Cubis sat on the floor, sulking.
Mom brought him his favorite banana pancakes, but he just poked at them angrily. “Dad doesn’t love me anymore,” he mumbled with tears in his eyes. Outside, the rumble of bicycles heading to the market made him even sadder.
Hours passed slowly. Cubis kept glancing at the door, still angry but missing Dad terribly. Finally, the door creaked open. Dad stepped inside, sweaty and tired, carrying a big bundle. Cubis looked away, pretending not to care.
Dad walked over and gently placed a surprise in Cubis’s lap—a shiny toy drum he had picked out just for him. “Even when you can’t come with me,” Dad said softly, “I’m always thinking of you.”
Cubis’s anger melted instantly. He hugged Dad tightly, his tears soaking into Dad’s shirt. “I’m sorry,” he sniffled. Dad hugged him back, smiling warmly.
They spent the rest of the day playing music and laughing together. Cubis learned that even when things don’t go his way, Dad’s love never leaves—no matter what.
