Chamroeun was happily munching on a sweet corn cob in the yard, his tiny hands holding it tightly as he enjoyed every juicy bite. Corn was one of his favorite snacks, and nothing could disturb him when he had it—at least, that’s what Mom thought.
But Chamroeun had other ideas. As he sat chewing, a curious chicken wandered nearby, pecking around the ground. At first, Chamroeun ignored it, but when the chicken moved a little too close, his playful temper suddenly sparked. His eyes narrowed, and with a loud squeak, Chamroeun leapt from his spot, charging straight at the bird.
The chicken flapped its wings in surprise, squawking loudly as Chamroeun jumped and waved his little hands, still gripping bits of corn. For a moment, it seemed like he was the brave little warrior of the yard. But in his excitement, Chamroeun lost his balance mid-jump. His tiny feet slipped on the uneven ground, and before he could steady himself, he tumbled down hard onto the dirt.
The corn flew from his hands, landing a few feet away. Chamroeun cried out instantly, more from shock than pain, his small body covered in dust. The chicken, startled, quickly ran off, leaving the little monkey lying on the ground, whimpering.
Mom rushed over as soon as she heard his cry. She scooped him up, brushing the dirt from his fur and checking him carefully. Chamroeun clung tightly to her, tears rolling down his cheeks, still shaken from the fall. Mom cuddled him close, whispering her comfort in soft, gentle sounds.
After a while, Chamroeun calmed down, though his eyes kept glancing at the corn lying forgotten on the ground. Mom kissed his tiny forehead, as if reminding him: corn can wait—what matters most is that he is safe in her arms.
