Little Koy was never the bravest baby monkey. Loud noises, new toys, strange visitors—everything made her nervous. But normally, she had one safe place: her mom’s arms.
Today, things were different.
While other babies played on the climbing rope or chased leaves in the wind, Koy stayed close to her mom’s side. Her tiny hands reached out for a cuddle—but her mom stepped away.
At first, Koy blinked, confused. She tried again, arms lifted high.
Again, her mom turned, gently nudging her aside.
No hug. No warmth. No comfort.
Koy’s heart pounded. Her lips trembled. Around her, the world suddenly felt too big. The games felt too scary. And without her mom’s touch, she felt completely alone.
She backed into a corner and sat down, curling her tail tight around her little feet. Her eyes followed her mom’s every move, silently begging for just one hug.
Why was mom refusing?
Was she tired? Angry? Or just needing space?
Koy couldn’t understand. All she knew was—she needed her.
A loud noise startled her, and Koy squeaked in fear. She jumped up, ran again to her mom, desperate this time. But once more, her mom simply stepped away.
Koy cried softly, shoulders shaking.
Then a caretaker nearby saw what was happening. They knelt down, extended gentle arms, and whispered her name.
Slowly, Koy walked over and let herself be lifted. Pressed against a warm chest, she finally calmed, her cries turning into sniffles.
She still longed for her mother’s hug—but in this moment, a little love was better than none
