But as the butterfly floated toward the road, Mariel followed it with tiny, unsteady steps. Her little feet tapped on the dusty path, eyes shining with excitement. She didn’t understand danger — she only saw the bright world ahead. Maria, distracted while talking to a neighbor, didn’t notice how far her baby had gone.
Moments later, the cheerful laughter of Baby Mariel turned into silence. When Maria looked up, her heart nearly stopped — her precious baby was stepping dangerously close to the busy road. A big car was coming fast, its engine rumbling loudly.
Maria screamed, “Mariel! Stop!” Her voice echoed through the air. The sound startled the baby, who froze in confusion right at the edge of the road. The car honked, tires screeching as it slowed down suddenly. Dust rose everywhere, and time seemed to stand still.
Maria ran with all her strength, her heart pounding like a drum. She scooped up little Mariel, holding her tightly to her chest, trembling with relief and fear. The driver stepped out, shaking his head, and said, “Please be careful! She’s too small to be alone near the road.”
Tears streamed down Maria’s face as she whispered to her baby, “Oh my little angel, Mommy is so sorry.” She kissed her forehead again and again, realizing how close she had come to losing her everything.
From that day on, Maria never let Mariel out of her sight again. She built a small safe play area behind the house, filled with soft toys, flowers, and a little swing. Mariel still played happily every day, but this time under the warm, watchful eyes of her loving mother.
Sometimes, Maria would look at the road from afar and feel her heart tighten — remembering that scary moment. She had learned a painful but valuable lesson: a mother’s care must never drift away, even for a short while. Children are curious, innocent, and fragile. Just one second of distraction could mean a lifetime of regret.
Now, every time she sees Mariel laugh safely in her play corner, Maria smiles with deep gratitude. The road remains a reminder — not of fear, but of love, protection, and the endless bond between mother and child.
