Cubis had been excited for days. Ever since he heard that Luk was coming to visit, the little monkey had been buzzing with energy—jumping from branch to branch, peeking into drawers, and humming his soft monkey chatter as he planned something big. Luk wasn’t just a friend; he was Cubis’s favorite playmate, the one who always shared snacks, taught him tricks, and never forgot to scratch his back in the spots he couldn’t reach.
Cubis wanted to do something special—a gift that would show just how much he appreciated Luk.
Early in the morning, before anyone else was awake, Cubis tip-toed (or tip-hopped) around the room. He gathered colorful leaves from the yard, picking only the brightest reds and yellows. Then he added tiny flowers he’d gently plucked, careful not to crush them in his little hands. He even found a shiny pebble that he had kept hidden for weeks because it “sparkled like Luk’s smile,” or so Cubis believed.
Next, Cubis dragged out a small woven basket he had once used to store his snacks. He emptied it—sending peanuts rolling everywhere—then carefully arranged all the treasures he’d collected. The basket looked messy at first, but Cubis adjusted it again and again, turning it into something truly beautiful. His little face scrunched in concentration as he worked. This wasn’t just a gift; this was a masterpiece from his heart.
When Luk finally arrived, Cubis could barely contain himself. He rushed forward, jumped into Luk’s arms, and wrapped him in the tightest hug. Then, with great pride, he presented the basket, holding it up with both hands as if offering a royal treasure.
Luk’s eyes widened. “Cubis… you made this for me?”
Cubis nodded eagerly, his tail swishing with pride.
Luk knelt down, smiling the warmest smile. “It’s perfect. Thank you, little buddy.”
Cubis clapped his hands with joy, squeaking happily. Seeing Luk cherish the gift made all his hard work worth it.
The two spent the rest of the day together—playing, laughing, and creating new memories—while the special basket sat safely by Luk’s side, a reminder of Cubis’s sweet little heart.
