In the warm clearing where the troop rests beneath the tall trees, young Luna sits alone, her small body curled up as she cries softly into her tiny hands. Luna is usually an energetic, playful little monkey, but today her mood has shifted. She feels overlooked and longs for the comforting presence of her father.
Throughout the day, she has watched him groom other troop members and care for the younger babies. Each time he turns away from her, Luna’s heart sinks a little deeper. She tries to get closer, tugging gently at his fur or calling out with a soft, pleading cry. But busy with his duties and the troop’s constant needs, her father sometimes does not notice her longing gaze.
Frustrated by being ignored, Luna’s quiet whimpers turn into a louder tantrum. She rocks back and forth on the dusty ground, hitting her small hands against the earth to show her disappointment. Her cries echo through the clearing, drawing the curious eyes of a few other young monkeys who keep their distance, unsure how to comfort her.
Despite her tears, Luna’s father remains a few steps away, distracted by the demands of the troop. Yet he is not unkind; he simply has many responsibilities to balance. In time, he will hear her cries and turn back to gather her up in his strong arms.
