The Cookie Caper
Ellie had always been curious, but this time her curiosity had gotten the better of her. Her mother had just baked a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookies, and the sweet, warm aroma wafted through the house. The rule was clear: no cookies until after dinner. But Ellie couldn’t resist.
She tiptoed into the kitchen, glancing over her shoulder to make sure the coast was clear. The cookie jar sat on the counter, its lid slightly ajar as if inviting her to take just one. Ellie reached in, grabbed two cookies, and stuffed them into her mouth. They were heavenly—soft, gooey, and perfectly sweet. She couldn’t stop herself from taking two more.
Just as she was about to sneak away, her mother’s voice rang out. “Ellie Marie! What do you think you’re doing?”
Ellie froze, crumbs dusting her lips. “I… I was just—”
“No cookies before dinner,” her mother said firmly, hands on her hips. “You know the rules. Come here.”
Ellie’s cheeks flushed as she shuffled over. Her mother sat down on the kitchen chair and pulled Ellie across her lap. “This is for sneaking cookies and breaking the rules,” she said, giving Ellie’s bottom a few firm swats.
Ellie squirmed, more from embarrassment than pain. “I’m sorry, Mom!” she squeaked.
Her mother helped her up and gave her a hug. “I know you’re sorry, sweetie. But rules are rules. Now, go wash up for dinner. And if you’re good, you can have a cookie for dessert.”
Ellie nodded, her bottom still tingling as she hurried off to the bathroom. She decided then and there that next time, she’d wait for dessert—no matter how tempting the cookies smelled.