Monkey Lyly sat quietly on a low tree branch, her little tail wrapped around her legs. Her big brown eyes were filled with sadness. Today was supposed to be special. Her mother had promised to take her to the Banana Festival in the next jungle clearing—a once-a-year event with games, music, and the sweetest bananas in the whole forest.
All week, Lyly had counted down the days. She had even picked out a necklace made of jungle flowers to wear. “I’ll win the banana toss, I just know it!” she told her friends. But now, the sun was setting and Lyly was still sitting at home.
Her mother, Mama Luma, had broken her promise.
Earlier that morning, Mama Luma looked worried as she read a note delivered by Owl Oscar. “Lyly,” she said gently, “I have to help Aunt Momo. Her baby is sick, and she needs me today.”
Lyly’s heart sank. “But you promised,” she whispered, holding back tears. “You promised, Mama.”
“I know,” Mama Luma said, pulling her daughter close. “And I’m so sorry. But family needs us sometimes, even when it’s hard.”
Lyly nodded slowly, but her disappointment was heavy. She didn’t argue—she just climbed her favorite tree and stayed there most of the day, watching the breeze move the leaves.
That evening, Mama Luma returned with a surprise. She brought back a small basket of banana treats and a colorful headband from the festival. “I couldn’t take you,” she said, “but I brought a piece of it back to you.”
Lyly smiled a little. “Thanks, Mama. I still wish we had gone together.”
“I do too,” Mama Luma said. “And I promise, we’ll go together next year. I’ll make it up to you.”
And though her heart still held a little sadness, Lyly knew her mother hadn’t forgotten her—she had only chosen to help someone else in need. That night, Lyly cuddled close to Mama, the banana treats between them, and felt just a bit better.
