Tiny Yuri sat proudly on the wooden table, her little feet tucked neatly beneath her. She looked like a queen surveying her kingdom — except instead of a crown, she wore sticky red juice all over her cheeks. In her small hands, she clutched a chunk of ripe red dragon fruit, squishing it slightly with every bite.
The vibrant fruit stained her lips a deep pink as she took slow, dramatic nibbles, making sure to savor every moment. Her eyes sparkled with delight, and her tiny tail wiggled behind her in quiet happiness.
Mom had just finished preparing lunch when she turned around and gasped softly. “Yuri!” she said, trying to sound stern, though a smile tugged at her lips. “You’re not supposed to eat fruit on the table!”
But Yuri paid no attention. She gave a cheeky glance, then took another exaggerated bite — red juice dripping down her chin — as if saying, This is the best spot, Mom.
The family laughed quietly behind her, not wanting to spoil the moment. The scene was too sweet to interrupt: a baby monkey so content, her tiny feet pressed against the cool surface of the table, her mouth painted in fruit juice, and her eyes filled with mischief.
Suddenly, Yuri offered a piece to Mom, holding it up proudly with a sticky hand. It was her way of saying thank you, of sharing something she loved. Mom leaned down, pretending to take a bite, and Yuri giggled with joy.
It was a simple moment — a piece of fruit, a sticky table, and a happy little monkey — but in that moment, everything felt just right. And as the afternoon sun poured through the window, Yuri sat back, licking her fingers, her tummy full and her heart even fuller.
