Morning in the playroom was supposed to be peaceful — but not today. Little Minea was in one of her feisty moods, and poor Chamroeun had become her latest target. It all started over a simple toy — a colorful ring they both wanted.
“Eee! Eee!” Minea shrieked, snatching it away. Chamroeun cried out in protest, tugging it back. Within seconds, tiny hands were flying, tails twitching, and squeals filling the air.
Daddy rushed over, his eyes wide. “Hey, hey, calm down, you two!” he said, reaching between them. But Minea wasn’t done — her little face scrunched up in stubborn fury, her lips puckering as she tried to push Chamroeun again.
“Eee! Minea, stop!” Daddy said, gently holding her tiny arms. She squirmed, kicking her feet, her eyes full of fiery determination. She wanted to prove she was the boss.
Chamroeun sat on the other side, pouting with big, teary eyes. Daddy sighed deeply, already feeling the exhaustion in his bones. “You two are going to make me gray,” he muttered with a tired chuckle.
He tried everything — soothing tones, tickles, even offering milk — but Minea stayed stubborn. Finally, Daddy scooped her up and sat her in his lap. “No more fighting,” he said softly. “Look at Chamroeun — he’s your friend.”
Minea crossed her arms, refusing to look. But when Daddy guided her tiny hand to pat Chamroeun’s back, she paused. Chamroeun sniffled, then gave a shy smile. Slowly, Minea’s anger melted away.
Daddy smiled, his patience finally paying off. “That’s my good girl,” he whispered.
Moments later, both babies were cuddled in his arms, half-asleep and peaceful — the storm replaced by soft breathing and warm trust.
Daddy leaned back with a grin. “Phew… that’s my daily workout done.”
