Little baby LeDuc had just finished his warm morning milk when Dad placed him gently on his soft play mat. The mat was colorful and filled with tiny toys, rattles, and soft pillows—everything a little monkey needed for fun. But LeDuc wasn’t interested. He didn’t want toys, pillows, or even cute rattles. He wanted something else—he wanted Dad.
At first, Dad thought LeDuc would settle and start exploring like other babies his age. He stepped away to clean the bottle and tidy up the room. But the moment LeDuc realized he was alone, his tiny heart filled with worry. His hands grabbed at the blanket, his legs kicked restlessly, and his little face twisted into a sad expression.
Suddenly, LeDuc began to whimper softly. He looked toward the doorway, hoping Dad would come back. When Dad didn’t return right away, the soft whimpers turned into louder crying. His tiny chest rose quickly as he called out with everything he had—“Pick me up! Don’t leave me here!”
LeDuc didn’t care about playtime. He didn’t want independence. All he wanted was warmth, closeness, and the comfort of being held.
Dad finally returned and was surprised by the dramatic sight. LeDuc was sitting on the mat with watery eyes and a trembling lip, looking like the saddest baby in the world. Dad scooped him up instantly, holding him close to his chest.
The crying stopped almost immediately. LeDuc tucked his tiny head under Dad’s chin, finally feeling safe again. His tail curled around Dad’s arm as if he was saying, “Don’t let me go.”
Dad smiled softly, rubbing LeDuc’s back.
Some babies play happily alone—but LeDuc wasn’t one of them. His favorite toy was simple… the warmth of the person who loved him most.
