The morning sunlight spilled into the little clearing near the forest’s edge, glinting off dew-soaked leaves and casting long, golden rays across the ground. Birds sang in soft, melodic choruses, and a gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of blooming flowers. Amid the serene forest scene, a small troop of monkeys played, chased, and leaped from branch to branch. But today, all eyes were on Cherry, the tiniest, most determined member of the group.
Cherry was a young monkey, her fur a soft, shiny chestnut that glimmered in the sun. Her eyes were large, round, and full of life, giving her an expression of constant wonder and curiosity. She had a particular treasure today: a perfectly ripe fig she had found early that morning. Its sweet aroma filled the air, and its smooth, reddish-purple skin gleamed invitingly in the sun.
Cherry had claimed the fig immediately, clutching it protectively to her chest as she hopped from branch to branch. Her little arms were wrapped around it tightly, and she looked determinedly at any monkey that dared glance her way. “OH! NO one will take it from you, Cherry!” whispered one of the elder monkeys, chuckling at the young one’s fierce attachment.
Cherry’s possessiveness was nothing new. She was spirited and independent, often staking her claim on leaves, fruit, or even the comfiest branch in the troop. But today, her determination reached a whole new level. The fig was hers, and she would defend it with everything she had.
The first challenger appeared in the form of Tiko, the mischievous youngster of the troop. He had been watching Cherry all morning, his small eyes gleaming with curiosity and playful greed. He had learned that Cherry often gave in after a few squeals and struggles—but today seemed different.
Tiko leapt onto the branch beside her, grinning. “That fig looks amazing, Cherry! Mind if I…?”
Cherry’s eyes widened. “OH! NO! This is mine!” she squealed, holding the fig even tighter. She bounced slightly on the branch, daring Tiko to make a move.
Tiko laughed, undeterred. “You’re strong, but I think I can get it from you!”
Cherry’s tail twitched nervously, but she was determined. She held the fig firmly, her tiny body braced for any challenge. And then, with a sudden burst of energy, she darted to a higher branch, dragging the precious fruit with her. Tiko followed, squealing and chattering in protest, but Cherry’s speed and determination gave her the upper hand.
From below, the troop watched with amusement. Elder monkeys shook their heads, some chuckled, and a few of the younger ones tried to imitate the chase, squealing and hopping clumsily from branch to branch. But Cherry was in her element, her eyes alight with triumph.
After a short chase, Tiko finally gave up, flopping onto a branch with a dramatic sigh. Cherry sat triumphantly on a sturdy limb, holding her fig like a crown. “OH! NO one will take it from me!” she squeaked proudly, her tail flicking with satisfaction.
But Cherry’s challenges were far from over. The troop’s alpha, a larger and more authoritative monkey named Momo, had been observing the scene silently. Momo was wise and fair, but also curious about Cherry’s determination. He climbed down carefully, making sure not to startle her.
Cherry froze slightly, sensing his presence. “OH! NO!” she whispered under her breath, tightening her grip on the fig. She had faced Tiko and won, but Momo was a different story entirely.
Momo chuckled softly. “That’s a fine-looking fig, Cherry,” he said gently. “May I have a small taste?”
Cherry’s ears twitched. “OH! NO! It’s MINE!” she squeaked, holding it closer. She backed up along the branch, positioning herself so that she had room to flee if necessary.
Momo’s eyes twinkled with amusement. “I’m not trying to take it from you, little one. But perhaps we can share a tiny piece?”
Cherry hesitated. Sharing was not in her plans. But she trusted Momo. Slowly, she broke off a small piece, offering it to him. “Just… a tiny piece!” she said, her tone firm.
Momo nodded, accepting the piece gently. “Thank you, Cherry. That was very generous.”
Cherry beamed, proud of herself. She had defended her treasure, but also learned a little about trust and generosity. “OH! NO one will take it from me… except maybe someone I trust!” she whispered with a smile, nibbling the rest of the fig.
Just as she settled, a new distraction appeared: the fig tree nearby had dropped a cluster of fruits that landed with soft thuds around the clearing. Cherry’s eyes widened. “More figs!” she squealed. Her attention shifted instantly, though she kept her original prize close.
Other monkeys scrambled toward the fallen fruit, but Cherry remained vigilant. She knew that in a forest full of playful and opportunistic monkeys, treasures could vanish in an instant. She hopped between branches, carefully balancing herself while keeping the fig secure.
The troop continued their playful chatter, but Cherry’s determination drew attention. “Look at her go!” Tiko squeaked from a nearby branch, impressed despite his earlier defeat. “She really won’t let anything go!”
Cherry grinned, her chest puffed up with pride. “OH! NO one will take it from me!” she shouted again, and this time, her declaration seemed to echo through the forest. Even the birds seemed to pause in their morning songs, watching her small figure dance among the branches.
By midday, the troop had settled into a relaxed rhythm. Cherry, still clutching her fig, rested on a high branch, surveying her domain. Other monkeys came by to greet her, some offering small gifts of fruit or leaves, and she allowed herself to relax slightly, confident that her treasure was safe.
Momo approached again, sitting beside her without threatening the fig. “You’ve done well today, Cherry,” he said softly. “You’ve learned how to protect something important and also how to share wisely.”
Cherry smiled, her eyes bright. “OH! NO one will take it from me,” she whispered once more, softly this time. “But… it feels nice to have friends around too.”
The troop settled for the afternoon, the sun warm on their fur. Cherry nibbled on her fig, occasionally offering tiny pieces to nearby friends, while also keeping the majority safely in her paws. It was a perfect balance of fun, protection, and companionship.
As the day came to a close, Cherry curled up in a nook of the tree, still holding the fig close. “OH! NO one will take it from me,” she said softly to herself, her voice full of pride and happiness. She had defended her treasure, shared wisely, and enjoyed the company of her troop—all in one exciting day.
And in that quiet forest clearing, Cherry realized something important: treasures are worth protecting, but joy multiplies when shared with friends.
💞
