Little Tong sat on the floor, eyes wide and full of tears, his tiny hands reaching up toward Mom. He wanted nothing more than to be lifted, hugged, and held close. But Mom was busy that morning — cleaning, preparing milk, and tidying the room. When she walked past without picking him up, Tong’s little heart couldn’t handle it.
At first, he let out a soft whine, hoping she’d turn around. But when she didn’t, his lips began to tremble, and his voice grew louder. “Eee! Eee!” he cried, his whole body shaking with emotion. The sound echoed through the house — a mix of sadness, frustration, and pure longing.
Mom glanced over her shoulder. “Just a minute, Tong,” she said kindly. But to him, every second felt like forever. He stomped his tiny feet, threw himself backward onto the mat, and let out another heartbreaking scream. His little face scrunched up, his tears rolling down his cheeks as he cried louder and louder.
It wasn’t just a tantrum — it was heartbreak. He didn’t understand why Mom wouldn’t hold him right now. In his tiny world, love meant being in her arms. Anything else felt like being left alone.
Mom sighed softly, feeling her heart twist with guilt. She finished what she was doing and hurried back. Kneeling beside him, she whispered, “Oh, my baby, don’t cry.” But Tong turned his head away, still upset. He folded his arms tightly and pouted, refusing to look at her.
Mom smiled gently, knowing he just needed reassurance. She slowly reached out and brushed his cheek with her finger. “Come here, my angry boy,” she said softly.
Tong hesitated, his sniffles softening. Then, unable to resist anymore, he reached up and clung to her hand. The moment she lifted him, his cries stopped. He buried his face in her chest, breathing fast, seeking the comfort he’d been crying for.
Mom kissed his little forehead. “See? Mommy’s here,” she whispered. Tong sighed, curling up in her arms, his tiny fingers gripping her shirt tightly.
Within moments, the angry, crying baby had turned quiet — his sadness washed away by love. For Tong, no toy or treat could ever replace the warmth of Mom’s embrace.
