A Tong was in a super moody temper the moment Mom placed him on the table for play today against his will completely.
His small face tightened red with anger as he crossed his arms in stubborn protest.
A sharp cry exploded from his throat filled with fury rather than fear.
He kicked the table edge with tiny feet as if trying to push the world away.
Mom stayed calm though her heart felt the storm of his rage.
She placed toys gently before him hoping play might steal the anger away slowly.
But A Tong slapped the toys aside his eyes flashing with wounded pride.
He did not want play he wanted control and choice in that moment only.
His cry grew louder bouncing off the walls like thunder in a small room.
Mom knelt beside him and spoke softly but firmly asking him to try just once.
A Tong shook his head hard tears flying from his eyes.
The table felt like a prison to his stubborn little heart.
Minutes stretched long and heavy with hot tears and shaking breaths.
Slowly the storm weakened exhaustion melting the edges of his anger.
His cries broke into hiccups his chest rising and falling in tired rhythm.
Mom lifted him gently letting the last of the anger drain away against her shoulder.
A Tong clung tightly no longer screaming only breathing hard with leftover frustration.
The forced play ended not in victory but in quiet surrender and warmth.
Anger faded hunger for comfort took its place at last.
In Mom’s arms the moody storm finally slept leaving only a tired little boy behind the fury.
He would play later when his heart was ready again.
For now he only needed to be held and understood in calm silence together once more.
