The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a warm orange glow across the treetops, when the news reached Lala. She was sitting by the stream, dipping her toes into the cool water, when an older monkey approached quietly.
“Lala,” he said gently, “Bibi isn’t well. She collapsed last night. The elders say it’s serious.”
At first, Lala didn’t speak. Her breath caught in her throat, and her heart thudded painfully. Then, without warning, tears welled in her eyes and spilled down her cheeks. Her soft sobs broke the morning stillness.
Bibi wasn’t just another member of the troop—she was Lala’s best friend. They had grown up together, played in the treetops, and shared every secret. Bibi had always been the brave one, climbing the highest branches and defending Lala from bullies. To hear that she was sick, unable to move or eat, felt like the world was falling apart.
Lala rushed through the forest, her cries echoing with every leap. She arrived at the shelter where Bibi lay, weak and barely able to open her eyes. Her breathing was shallow, and her usual sparkle was gone. Lala knelt beside her, gently brushing Bibi’s fur, tears dripping onto her friend’s hand.
“I’m here, Bibi,” she whispered, voice shaking. “Please don’t leave me. You’re the strongest monkey I know. You have to fight this.”
The elders gave Lala space, their own faces heavy with concern. They had seen illness before, but rarely one that took hold so quickly. Still, Lala refused to leave Bibi’s side.
All day and into the night, Lala stayed close, humming softly the tune they used to sing as children. She didn’t know what tomorrow would bring, but she held onto hope. She believed that somehow, her love might help Bibi heal.
In the silence of the forest, Lala’s tears were both a song of sorrow and a promise of unbreakable friendship.
