The house was quiet, but the soft glow from the living room lamp showed that Mom was still awake. Lala rubbed her sleepy eyes and peeked around the corner. There was Mom, books and notes spread across the table, her eyes heavy but determined. She had been studying all night for an important exam.
Lala’s little heart ached. “Mom looks so tired… I need to help her,” she thought. She tiptoed into the kitchen, determined to make something that could keep Mom awake—a warm cup of coffee.
She pulled out the coffee jar, a mug, and some sugar. Standing on her tiptoes, she carefully measured a spoonful of coffee powder. “Not too much, not too little,” she whispered. She boiled some water, the steam fogging up her cheeks, and stirred gently until the coffee swirled into a rich, dark brown. To make it special, she added a little milk and stirred again until the aroma filled the kitchen.
Carrying the mug with both hands, Lala walked slowly to the living room, trying not to spill a drop. “Mom,” she said softly, placing the cup on the table, “please drink this. You need energy.”
Mom looked up in surprise, her tired face breaking into a smile. “Oh, Lala… you made this for me?”
Lala nodded shyly. “I was worried about you. Coffee will help you stay awake, but you also need to rest.”
Mom took a sip, the warmth instantly soothing her. “It’s perfect,” she said, hugging Lala tightly. “Thank you, my little helper.”
That night, Mom continued studying with a lighter heart, while Lala snuggled beside her. Even though it was a small cup of coffee, it carried all of Lala’s love.
