The sun had already climbed high into the sky, but Uncle was still fast asleep. Inside the cozy little house, everything was quiet—too quiet for baby monkey Zika.
Zika peeked into Uncle’s room and frowned. “Still sleeping?” he whispered. “But it’s already morning! We have so many fun things to do!”
He tiptoed closer and gently poked Uncle’s arm. No response.
“Hmm… I need a better plan,” Zika said, scratching his head.
First, he tried calling softly, “Uncle… wake up…” But Uncle only turned over and pulled the blanket tighter. Zika puffed his cheeks in frustration.
Then suddenly, his eyes sparkled with a mischievous idea.
Zika ran outside and came back with a small bunch of tickly grass. He climbed onto the bed carefully and waved the grass near Uncle’s nose.
“Just a little tickle…” Zika giggled.
Uncle’s nose twitched. “Mmm… what is that…” he mumbled, still half asleep.
Zika tried again, this time brushing the grass a bit more. Uncle suddenly sneezed loudly—“Achoo!”
Zika burst into laughter. “Got you!”
But Uncle still didn’t sit up. “Five more minutes…” he groaned.
Zika crossed his arms. “No way! I’m not done yet!”
Next, Zika rushed to the kitchen and grabbed a metal spoon and a bowl. Back in the room, he started tapping gently… then louder… then LOUDER.
CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!
“Wake up, Uncle! It’s morning!” Zika shouted cheerfully.
Uncle finally jumped up in surprise. “Okay! Okay! I’m awake!” he said, covering his ears.
Zika cheered and bounced on the bed. “Yay! Let’s go play outside!”
Uncle rubbed his eyes but couldn’t help smiling. “You really don’t let anyone sleep in, do you?”
Zika shook his head proudly. “Sleeping is boring. Playing is better!”
Uncle laughed, getting out of bed. “Alright, little troublemaker. Let’s go.”
Moments later, the two were outside, running and laughing together under the bright blue sky.
And from that day on, Uncle knew one thing for sure—if Zika was around, sleeping in was never an option!
