The afternoon was bright and peaceful — birds singing, leaves swaying in the gentle wind. In the middle of the yard sat baby monkey Donal, full of energy and ready to play. He clutched his favorite leaf toy in one hand, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “Mommy!” he chirped happily, running toward her.
But Mom was busy cleaning up their resting area, arranging blankets and preparing milk. She smiled softly at him and said, “Just a moment, Donal. Mommy’s working right now.”
Donal stopped in his tracks, blinking in confusion. He tilted his head, waiting for her to turn around. But she didn’t. She kept sweeping, focused on her task. That’s when his little heart began to sink.
He dropped his leaf toy and let out a small whimper. “Eee?” he called softly. Still no answer. His face scrunched up, and his tiny chest started to tremble. A second later — the first tear rolled down his cheek.
Then came the full tantrum.
“Eee! Eee! EEEE!” Donal screamed, throwing himself onto the ground. His cries grew louder, echoing through the yard. He kicked his little legs and pounded the dirt with his fists, clearly saying, “Mommy, play with me!”
Mom turned quickly, startled but not angry. She walked over, her face soft with understanding. “Oh, Donal,” she sighed gently. “You couldn’t wait, huh?”
But Donal wasn’t ready to forgive. He turned his head away, still sniffling dramatically. Mom smiled, kneeling beside him. “Alright, my baby,” she said, picking up his toy. “How about we play just for a minute?”
Instantly, Donal’s tears stopped. His eyes brightened, and he reached for the leaf. Within seconds, the yard filled with his giggles as Mom waved the toy back and forth.
Mom chuckled softly. “You’re such a little actor,” she whispered, stroking his head. Donal grinned proudly, now cuddled up against her chest.
As the sun dipped lower, they sat together — one patient, one playful — but both happy again.
For baby Donal, the world felt right only when Mom’s attention was his. And for Mom, no chore was more important than her little one’s smile.
