It was a quiet afternoon, but not for long. A Tong sat on the wooden chair, swinging his tiny legs, his eyes locked onto his dad. Mom had just left for the market, and now A Tong had some serious business to discuss.
“Daddy,” A Tong started, tilting his head. “Mommy always gives me two milk bottles, but you only gave me one. That’s not fair!”
Dad looked at him, raising an eyebrow. “A Tong, you already finished a full bottle. That’s enough.”
“Enough?!” A Tong gasped dramatically, placing his tiny hands on his chest. “Daddy, you don’t understand. I am a growing boy. I need my milk!”
Dad chuckled. “No more milk, little man.”
A Tong pouted, but he wasn’t done yet. He leaned closer, his tiny hands gesturing wildly. “Okay, listen, Daddy. What if I drink just half a bottle? That’s not too much, right?”** He squinted his eyes like a real businessman.**
Dad shook his head. “Still no.”
A Tong sighed heavily and placed a hand on his forehead. “You drive a hard bargain, Dad. Okay, last offer! How about I just hold the bottle? Not drink, just hold it. Deal?”
Dad laughed loudly. “Nice try, A Tong, but I know you. The moment you hold it, you’ll start drinking.”
A Tong threw his hands in the air. “Fine! But when Mommy comes back, I’m telling her you were unfair!” He crossed his arms and pouted.
Dad grinned and scooped him up. “Go ahead, little negotiator. But I bet she’ll say the same thing!”
A Tong huffed but secretly smiled. He may not have won this time, but next time, he’d be ready!
