The morning sun rose gently over the countryside, painting the rice fields in a warm golden hue. The air was filled with the chirping of birds and the soft hum of insects starting their day. In the farmhouse yard, CUTIS, a cheerful young boy with boundless curiosity, was already awake and bustling with energy. His constant companion, a playful baby monkey, scampered along the fence, swinging and squealing with delight.
Life had been different since a new member joined the family—CUTIS’s baby sister. She was tiny, fragile, and adored by everyone. Dad had taken on the tender responsibility of bathing the newborn each morning. However, he always reminded CUTIS of the importance of the leaves that made the water soothing and safe for the baby’s sensitive skin.
These were not ordinary leaves. They were special herbal leaves from the forest, known to cool the skin, prevent rashes, and give a natural fragrance. Dad had learned about them from his grandmother, and now it was a tradition in their home. Normally, Dad would fetch them himself, but with so many chores and the sleepless nights that came with caring for a newborn, his hands were full.
CUTIS noticed this. His big heart told him he should help. With a spark of determination in his eyes, he whispered to the baby monkey, “Let’s surprise Dad. We’ll go collect the special leaves today!”
The baby monkey clapped its tiny hands, as though it understood every word. It leapt onto CUTIS’s shoulder, tail curling playfully around his neck. Together, they set off toward the edge of the forest, where the fragrant herbal leaves grew.
The Journey to the Forest
The path to the forest was alive with sounds. Cicadas sang from the trees, butterflies danced above wildflowers, and a light breeze carried the scent of earth and fresh grass. CUTIS walked steadily, holding a small woven basket. The baby monkey bounded ahead, then ran back, as if making sure CUTIS didn’t fall behind.
When they reached the forest, the sunlight streamed down in golden shafts through the thick canopy. CUTIS paused for a moment, remembering his father’s words: “These leaves look shiny green, with a soft texture. They smell sweet when you rub them.”
The baby monkey began sniffing around the bushes, tugging at leaves curiously. Some it pulled were prickly; others were dry and crumbled easily. CUTIS chuckled. “No, not those. We need the ones Dad showed us.”
At last, CUTIS spotted the right plant. Its leaves shimmered in the sunlight, bright green and smooth. He plucked one gently, rubbed it between his fingers, and smiled at the refreshing scent. “This is it!” he exclaimed. The monkey squeaked happily, and together they began collecting more.
The Monkey’s Clever Trick
But the forest was tricky. The leaves didn’t all grow at the same height. Some were low, easy for CUTIS to reach, but others grew high on branches. CUTIS stretched, trying to grab them, but they were just out of reach.
The baby monkey tilted its head, then scampered up the tree like a flash of lightning. Within moments, it was plucking the higher leaves and tossing them down into the basket CUTIS held open. CUTIS laughed, cheering his little friend on.
“Good job! You’re smarter than me at climbing!”
The monkey puffed out its chest proudly and swung from branch to branch, harvesting leaves with a speed that amazed CUTIS.
Before long, the basket was filled with the fragrant treasure. CUTIS carefully checked them, making sure there were enough for Dad’s use. The baby monkey grabbed one leaf and tried to wear it as a hat, which made CUTIS giggle so hard he almost dropped the basket.
The Walk Back Home
With their basket full, CUTIS and the baby monkey began their journey home. Along the way, they passed neighbors working in the fields. One woman saw them and called out, “Where are you going with those leaves, CUTIS?”
CUTIS answered proudly, “For my little sister! Dad needs them to bathe her.”
The neighbors smiled warmly, touched by the boy’s thoughtfulness. “Such a good brother,” one of them said. The baby monkey seemed to understand the praise and waved its tiny hand like a little human. Everyone laughed at the sight.
When CUTIS reached the yard, Dad was busy rocking the newborn in his arms. He looked tired but peaceful. CUTIS ran to him, holding out the basket. “Dad! Look what we did. We collected the leaves for baby’s bath!”
Dad’s eyes widened in surprise. “You did this? All by yourself?”
“Me and the monkey,” CUTIS corrected with a grin. The baby monkey hopped onto the ground, puffing up with pride again.
Dad examined the leaves and nodded. “Perfect! These are exactly the ones we need. Thank you, CUTIS. Thank you, little one,” he added, giving the monkey a gentle pat.
The baby cooed softly, as if sensing the excitement.
The Bathing Ritual
Dad boiled water in a large pot and dropped the leaves inside. Soon, the air filled with the calming fragrance of the herbs. Once the water cooled to the right temperature, Dad gently placed the newborn into the small wooden tub.
The baby monkey leaned forward curiously, eyes wide, while CUTIS sat beside Dad, watching every movement.
The newborn relaxed immediately in the water, tiny fists unclenching, a faint smile forming on her lips. The soothing leaf-infused bath washed away any discomfort, and her skin glowed with a healthy softness.
CUTIS whispered, “She likes it.”
Dad smiled warmly. “Yes, thanks to you. Because you and your little friend worked so hard, your sister can enjoy this bath.”
A Family Moment
After the bath, Dad wrapped the baby in a soft cloth and rocked her gently. CUTIS reached out, stroking her tiny hand. The baby monkey mimicked him, touching her little foot with surprising gentleness.
Dad looked at them both, pride shining in his eyes. “CUTIS, you’re already such a responsible brother. And you,” he said, glancing at the monkey, “are not just a pet—you’re part of our family.”
The baby monkey squealed happily, as if agreeing with every word. CUTIS hugged his little friend, feeling proud of what they had accomplished together.
The Lesson Learned
That night, as the stars twinkled in the sky, CUTIS lay in bed thinking about the day. He realized that helping Dad not only made the chores lighter but also made his sister’s life more comfortable. The baby monkey curled up beside him, its soft fur warm against his arm.
“Tomorrow,” CUTIS whispered, “we’ll help again. Maybe we’ll fetch water, or maybe we’ll collect firewood. Whatever Dad needs, we can do it—together.”
The monkey gave a soft, sleepy chirp, as if to say, “Yes, together.”
And with that, the boy and his clever little companion drifted into dreams, proud of their small but meaningful role in caring for their growing family.
