The morning was calm, with the soft sunlight filtering through the trees. Baby monkey Riki sat happily on a wooden bench, playing with his tiny fingers while his dad, a strong and caring monkey, sat beside him. Riki loved being near his dad, always feeling safe and warm in his presence.
But soon, Dad stood up. He needed to leave for a while to search for food. Riki didn’t understand. He looked up at his dad with big, innocent eyes, hoping he would stay. But before he could react, Dad turned and started walking away.
At first, Riki just watched, blinking in confusion. Then, when he realized Dad wasn’t coming back right away, panic set in. His little body tensed, and within seconds, a heartbreaking cry filled the air.
“EEEEEK! EEEEEK!”
His tiny hands grabbed onto the wooden bench as he screamed at the top of his lungs. His face crumpled in distress, tears welling up in his eyes. He tried to run after his dad but was too small and clumsy.
Other monkeys nearby turned to look. Some older ones chattered, while a few young ones watched curiously. But Riki didn’t care—he only wanted his dad.
He threw himself on the ground, kicking his little legs, sobbing louder and louder. His whole body trembled with sadness. The world felt empty without his dad beside him.
Suddenly, a gentle hand scooped him up. It was his mom. She held him close, stroking his tiny head. “Shhh, Riki, don’t cry. Dad will come back soon,” she whispered.
But Riki kept whimpering, burying his face in her fur. He didn’t understand time. He only knew one thing—he wanted his dad, and nothing else mattered.
Would Dad return soon? Riki could only hope. Until then, he would stay in his mother’s arms, waiting, his tiny heart aching for the father he loved so much.
