The sun was blazing that afternoon, its heat radiating off the ground like waves. The leaves drooped, the air was heavy, and the birds had all gone quiet in search of shade. Monkey Lyly had been happily nibbling on a piece of watermelon under the tree when she noticed something strange — her mother, usually calm and composed, was sitting off to the side, shivering.
Shivering? In this heat?
Lyly’s little heart skipped a beat. She dropped her fruit and scampered over, concern written all over her furry face. “Mom?” she squeaked, gently touching her mother’s hand. “You’re shaking… What’s wrong?”
Mama Monkey tried to smile, but Lyly could see how pale and tired she looked. Her breathing was shallow, and she was trembling as though caught in a cold wind. Lyly’s instincts kicked in. She didn’t fully understand heat exhaustion or dehydration, but she knew something wasn’t right. And more than anything, she wanted to make it better.
She ran to grab a wet cloth from the water bucket nearby and returned as quickly as her little legs could carry her. “Here, Mama! I got you this. It’s cool! Please stay still.” Gently, Lyly dabbed her mother’s face, trying her best to cool her down. She shaded her with a big banana leaf and whispered, “It’s okay, Mom… it’ll be fine. I’m here.”
Other family members came over soon after and realized Mama needed rest and proper hydration. They gave her coconut water and laid her down in the shade. Lyly stayed by her side the whole time, watching closely, offering little sips of water, and stroking her hand with care.
By sunset, Mama was already feeling better — tired but safe. She looked at her daughter with tears in her eyes. “You’re my little hero,” she whispered.
Lyly just smiled and snuggled close. She didn’t need a thank you — she just needed her mom to be okay.
