The story began with a lonely, elderly woman who had always adored animals. Having outlived many of her friends and family, she found solace in caring for a small monkey she’d named Momo. Momo, with his inquisitive eyes and playful spirit, filled her home with joy and a sense of companionship she hadn’t felt in years. She doted on him, making sure he had his favorite fruits and little toys to play with, and even speaking to him as if he could understand her every word.
But the woman’s health began to falter. Tasks that once seemed simple grew increasingly challenging, and she could no longer keep up with Momo’s boundless energy. One day, realizing that she may not be able to care for him much longer, she decided to set him free, hoping he’d find his way to other animals or a kind stranger who could care for him. She tearfully opened her door and watched as Momo scampered into the open field. Yet every evening, she’d glance out her window, hoping to see her little friend’s familiar face at her doorstep.
Meanwhile, her neighbor, a woman who was also fond of animals, noticed the old woman’s sorrow and became curious about Momo’s disappearance. She had two small dogs, PiPi and TiTi, who often went over to the old woman’s house to play with Momo, and they too seemed to miss their little friend. PiPi, in particular, had grown fond of the baby monkey, often looking out toward the fields as if searching for Momo.
Days passed, and one evening, PiPi began whining and scratching at the door, tugging at her owner as if to say, “Let’s go find him.” Taking the hint, the neighbor gathered PiPi and TiTi and went over to visit the old woman. She hadn’t seen her in days, and the memory of Momo’s lively presence felt bittersweet as she approached the house. The woman knocked on the door, calling out gently, “Is anyone home? We’ve come to check in on you.”
The door creaked open, and the frail old woman smiled, grateful for the company. She explained, with sadness in her voice, that she hadn’t seen Momo in three or four days since she let him go. She shared her worry, wondering if he was safe or if he’d found food.
Hearing her story, the neighbor promised to help. She’d heard someone mention a small monkey near the fields and suggested they go out the next day to look for Momo. PiPi and TiTi brought a few small gifts—a plush toy and a few treats they had saved for Momo—hoping that perhaps the familiar scent might bring him back.
The following day, they set off together, scouring the fields and calling out Momo’s name. PiPi sniffed at the ground, his tiny tail wagging as he led the way. Hours passed, and just as they were about to return home, PiPi barked excitedly. There, perched atop a tree branch, was Momo, looking slightly thinner but still his mischievous self.
With a tearful smile, the old woman reached out her hand, and Momo, recognizing her, leaped down, nestling into her embrace. She stroked his tiny head, relieved and overjoyed to see her little friend again. The neighbor suggested that perhaps Momo could stay with her and PiPi, where he’d have friends and still be close enough for the old woman to visit as often as she liked.
And so, Momo settled into his new home next door, where he’d often climb the fence to visit his beloved old friend, bringing her as much joy as he always had. In her heart, she knew that she’d never truly been alone. With Momo, PiPi, and TiTi by her side, her world was once again filled with warmth, friendship, and love.