Minea had woken up in one of her fiery moods — tail flicking, eyes sharp, tiny chest puffed with attitude. Chamroeun, gentle and sweet as always, was just sitting nearby nibbling his snack, unaware that a storm named Minea was heading straight toward him. She strutted closer, jealousy bubbling inside her like hot water. Chamroeun had Mom’s attention for a moment — and Minea wanted that attention back.
Without warning, she raised her little hands and tried to pounce on him. Chamroeun stepped back in confusion, eyes widening, unsure what he had done wrong. Mom saw everything, and her heart jumped. She rushed forward, blocking Minea quick enough before she could hurt the soft little boy. Minea didn’t expect it — Mom’s voice came out louder than usual, sharp with worry.
“Stop! No, Minea!”
The shout cut the air like a whip.
Minea froze. Her ears dropped. Her brave face melted into shock and sadness. She didn’t understand why Mom raised her voice — to her, she was only protecting her place, her love, her world. But Mom couldn’t let her hurt Chamroeun, not even once.
Chamroeun, still trembling, peeked from behind Mom’s arm. He didn’t hate Minea — he just wanted peace, warmth, and maybe to share a banana together like siblings should. Mom held them both close, one hand comforting Chamroeun, the other resting gently on Minea’s back, not with anger anymore but with guidance.
Minea lowered her head slowly, guilt swimming in her eyes. She wasn’t bad — just confused and emotional, learning how love works. When Mom offered her a slow hug, she leaned in, trembling but calm, realizing she was forgiven.
In that moment, they learned together — love isn’t fighting for attention, but sharing it.
Minea sniffled softly, and eventually, she touched Chamroeun’s hand — a tiny apology, but a powerful one. The family was whole again.
