It was a sunny afternoon when little Monkey Lyly came bouncing back from the neighbor’s house, her tail swaying with excitement. She had spent the whole morning playing with her best friend, Cubis, exploring the backyard and sharing bits of fruit that Cubis’s mom had given them. By the time she returned home, her face was full of joy—but something was off.
Mom had just finished preparing lunch, a delicious plate of Lyly’s favorite treats—fresh banana slices and steamed sweet potatoes. “Lyly, come eat!” Mom called cheerfully. But to her surprise, Lyly turned her head away and folded her arms, refusing even a single bite.
Mom blinked in confusion. “What’s wrong, sweetheart? Aren’t you hungry?” she asked gently. Lyly shook her head stubbornly and looked to the side, her lips pressed together in a pout. It wasn’t like her at all! Usually, she’d be the first one at the table.
After a few moments of silence, Mom realized what must have happened. “Did you already eat at the neighbor’s house?” she asked with a knowing smile. Lyly hesitated, then nodded shyly. She had been so spoiled by Cubis’s family—treats, fruits, and even coconut milk—that by the time she came home, her tummy was already full.
Mom couldn’t help but laugh softly. “Ah, so that’s why you didn’t want my lunch!” she teased, gently patting Lyly’s head. But then, noticing Lyly’s guilty eyes, she added warmly, “It’s okay, little one. Just remember to tell me next time, alright?”
Lyly’s ears perked up again. She hugged her mom tightly and gave her a sweet smile, whispering a soft “Sorry, Mom.” The little misunderstanding turned into laughter, and before long, Lyly was nibbling a small banana slice—just to make her mom happy.
That day, Lyly learned that honesty, even in small things, keeps love and laughter strong between mother and daughter. And Mom? She simply felt proud to see her little monkey growing up with such a caring heart.
