Cubis had been waiting all afternoon. He sat on the low stone wall near the park entrance, his little legs swinging and his cheeks puffed out in annoyance. The sun was already dipping low, painting the sky orange and pink, and still… no sign of Dad.
Normally, Cubis would have passed the time chasing butterflies or chatting with the friendly park squirrels, but not today. Today, he wanted Dad to come right on time—maybe even a little early—so they could grab ice cream together before dinner. But the minutes dragged, and every passing moment made Cubis more certain: Dad had forgotten.
When Dad finally appeared, jogging toward him with his usual warm smile, Cubis turned his head away dramatically. His tiny arms folded tightly across his chest, his eyes narrowed.
“Cubis! Sorry I’m late, buddy! Traffic was terrible,” Dad panted, crouching down to meet his eyes.
Cubis didn’t say a word. He just let out a small, exaggerated sigh and stared off into the distance.
Dad chuckled softly. “You’re really mad at me, huh?”
Cubis gave him the tiniest glance—just enough to let Dad know he was still listening—but quickly looked away again. The message was clear: You hurt my feelings, Dad.
To make it right, Dad pulled a surprise from his bag: Cubis’s favorite chocolate chip cookie, still warm from the bakery. Cubis’s resolve wavered. His nose twitched at the sweet smell, but he kept up the act for a moment longer.
“Come on,” Dad said gently, “I know I messed up. But how about cookie first… then ice cream?”
That did it. Cubis’s pout melted into the faintest smile, and he finally allowed Dad to scoop him up.
As they walked home, Cubis clung to Dad’s neck, cookie in hand. He’d still remind Dad about “The Day You Were Late” for weeks to come—but deep down, he knew Dad’s hugs were worth the wait.
