It had been a rough morning for little Lala, the playful and expressive monkey. Her favorite toy had gone missing, and despite turning the whole house upside down, she couldn’t find it anywhere. She sat on the porch, arms crossed and lips pouting, clearly upset. Her tail drooped, and she let out soft sighs every now and then, hoping someone would notice her misery.
Thuy, Lala’s caring and observant human companion, quickly picked up on her gloomy mood. Instead of asking questions right away, Thuy headed to the kitchen with an idea in mind. She knew that when words didn’t work, food—especially something warm and comforting—could work wonders.
Within moments, the scent of freshly steamed rice cakes began to drift through the air. It was a smell Lala knew all too well: sticky rice, coconut milk, and the hint of mung bean. Her nose twitched, and her eyes began to follow the trail of the aroma. Though still sulking, she couldn’t resist peeking toward the kitchen.
“Lala, would you like a surprise?” Thuy called gently, stepping outside with a warm plate of soft, fragrant rice cakes drizzled in coconut sauce and sprinkled with crushed peanuts.
Lala’s ears perked up immediately. She trotted over, still trying to look sad, but her eyes sparkled with curiosity. Thuy sat down beside her and offered the plate. “I know today’s been hard. But maybe this will help just a little?”
Lala slowly took a bite—and instantly, her expression changed. Her eyes widened, and a big smile crept across her face. She let out a delighted squeal and eagerly reached for more. Thuy laughed, relieved to see her furry friend’s mood lifting.
In between bites, Lala cuddled up next to Thuy, her worries slowly fading. The toy could wait—right now, the moment was sweet, warm, and shared with someone who cared.
Would you like me to write a follow-up where Lala surprises Thuy by trying to cook next time?
