Baby Max loved exploring the garden. His tiny feet often carried him from one corner to another, chasing butterflies or tugging at the leaves that swayed in the breeze. That morning, he was extra energetic, climbing and hopping about while keeping one curious eye on everything around him.
But Max was still so little, and sometimes his excitement made him forget how careful he needed to be. As he hurried across the garden wall, his tiny toes slipped on the damp edge. In a flash, Max lost his balance and tumbled down onto the soft ground below.
The sound of his little body hitting the earth was followed instantly by a sharp cry. He sat up, dazed and scared, his big eyes watering as he clutched his side. The fall hadn’t truly hurt him, but the shock was enough to make his tiny heart race. His cry grew louder, echoing across the garden.
Mom, who had been nearby searching for food, rushed over the moment she heard him. She scooped Max into her arms, brushing off the dirt clinging to his fur. “Shhh, my little one,” her gentle coos seemed to say as she stroked his back tenderly.
Max buried his face against her chest, still whimpering but slowly calming down under her warmth. His tiny hands gripped her fur tightly, as if afraid to let go again. Mom inspected him carefully, checking for any scratches or bumps. Luckily, aside from the scare, Max was fine.
Once he felt secure again, Max gave a few sniffles and looked back at the spot where he had slipped. Mom, however, wasn’t ready to put him down yet. She held him close, reminding him that no matter how many slips or tumbles came his way, she would always be there to catch him.
