It was a bright and bustling morning at the market, with vendors calling out their best deals and the scent of fresh fruits filling the air. Monkey Lyly had tagged along with her mother, excited as always to see the colorful stalls and maybe sneak a treat or two.
But something was different today. As they made their way home, Lyly suddenly clung tightly to her mother, wrapping her tiny arms around her neck and pressing her face against her shoulder. Her grip was firm, and she refused to let go.
Her mother noticed the change immediately. Usually, Lyly would be playful, looking around curiously or chattering excitedly about what she saw. But now, she was silent, holding on as if she didn’t want to be put down.
“Lyly, what’s wrong?” her mother asked gently, stroking her soft fur. But Lyly just buried her face deeper, her tiny hands gripping tighter.
Then, her mother realized—something must have scared her at the market. Maybe it was the loud noises, the sudden crowd, or an unfamiliar face that startled her. She thought back to the moment when a vendor had dropped a crate of fruit, making a loud crashing sound. Had that been the moment Lyly started clinging to her?
Smiling, her mother reassured her, “It’s okay, my little one. You’re safe now.” She gently rubbed Lyly’s back, feeling the tiny monkey’s heartbeat slowly calm down.
As they walked, Lyly started to relax. She peeked up at her mother, her eyes still a little unsure but filled with trust. Her mother kissed her forehead softly. “No matter what happens, I will always protect you,” she whispered.
By the time they reached home, Lyly had loosened her grip but still nestled comfortably in her mother’s arms. Whatever had scared her was now a distant memory because, in her mother’s embrace, she felt safe again.
It was a touching reminder that sometimes, all we need is a warm hug to feel secure in the world.
