In the warm afternoon sun, Chamroeun was sitting peacefully on the wooden porch, gently playing with a leaf. His calm and innocent nature made him a favorite among the other baby monkeys. But today, peace wouldn’t last long.
Not far away, Minea crouched with eyes locked on Chamroeun. Mischief sparkled in her gaze. She was known for her playful — and sometimes aggressive — energy. Without warning, she leaned forward, ready to pounce like a tiny, wild storm.
But Daddy was watching.
Just as Minea’s little feet pushed off the ground, ready to leap at poor Chamroeun, Daddy’s voice cut through the air: “Minea! Stop!” At the same time, he raised his finger firmly, pointing at her with a serious look.
Minea froze mid-motion, her eyes wide. The power of Daddy’s finger — that single gesture — was stronger than any shout. She slowly backed down, realizing she had crossed a line.
Chamroeun blinked, unaware of how close he came to being tackled. He gave a tiny squeak and shuffled closer to Daddy’s legs for safety. Minea, embarrassed, sat with her arms crossed, looking away as if to say, “I didn’t really mean it.”
Daddy moved over, gently picking up Minea and placing her beside him. “No jumping, no fighting,” he said softly but firmly. She looked down, then gave a quiet nod.
A few moments later, Chamroeun reached over and handed her the leaf he was playing with — a tiny olive branch from one baby to another.
Minea smiled, and just like that, the tension melted.
In a home filled with playful babies, sometimes it takes one strong daddy finger to keep the peace.
