Little Leo used to be one of the brightest baby monkeys in the troop—playful, curious, always full of energy. But today, something had changed. His tiny eyes looked tired. His body curled tightly on the soft blanket, and he didn’t even reach for his favorite toy.
Mom Libby, usually confident and caring, sat beside him in silence, worry clouding her face. Her heart ached, knowing it was her own mistake that had caused this.
It started in the early morning. Libby had taken Leo out for a short walk in the garden. The grass was wet with dew, and the wind was still cool. She thought he’d enjoy it—just a little time outside before breakfast. But she didn’t realize how fragile Leo still was. He had just gotten over a cold. His body wasn’t strong yet.
They sat under a tree for too long. Libby got distracted by the older monkeys playing, thinking Leo was safely resting by her side. But when she looked back, Leo was shivering—his tiny fingers clenched, and his lips pale. She scooped him up, panic rushing through her, and ran back inside.
Now, hours later, Leo hadn’t smiled once.
Libby kissed his head gently and whispered, “I’m sorry, my baby… Mommy didn’t protect you enough.”
The caretaker came in and gave Leo some warm milk, wrapped him in heated cloth, and placed him on Mom’s chest. His breathing calmed a little. He still didn’t play—but he nuzzled closer.
It was going to take time. Libby knew that. She promised herself she’d never let him out of her arms like that again.
