Baby Lito was a gentle little soul, but like many babies, he had one simple request—his mother’s warm cuddle. Every day, Lito loved curling up in his mom’s arms, especially after meals or playtime. But this morning was different.
It started when Lito excitedly ran toward his mom, hoping to be scooped up and held close. But Mama was focused on something else—grooming another juvenile nearby. Lito froze for a moment, confused. He tugged on her tail and made soft whimpering noises, pleading in his baby monkey way.
Still, she didn’t turn around.
Suddenly, frustration took over. Lito collapsed onto the ground, face-first in the dry leaves, and let out a heart-wrenching scream. His tiny fists pounded the ground, his tail flicked wildly, and his cries grew louder with each second. He rolled over dramatically, flailing his arms and sobbing, hoping Mom would notice.
Nearby monkeys glanced over, some curious, others unfazed. A young cousin approached him to play, but Lito wasn’t having it. He turned away, sniffled, and cried even harder, burying his face in his tiny hands.
His mother finally looked over—but still didn’t rush. She watched him calmly, perhaps trying to teach her baby patience or independence. Lito didn’t understand. All he felt was the sting of being ignored.
After a long, exhausting tantrum, Lito lay quietly, hiccupping from his cries. That’s when Mama slowly walked over, sat beside him, and offered her arms.
Lito didn’t hesitate—he jumped into her embrace with one last sob, clinging tightly.
His eyes closed as her arms wrapped around him, and just like that, his storm passed. For now, Lito’s world was calm again… as long as Mom stayed close.
