Malaika sat by the waters edge in the mist of the waterfall, the water just soaking into his mane. Nothing seemed to be going right. They had been at the cave longer than expected. He didn't want to go himself but he knew the risks if simbaji came with him. They had to leave today. He walked away from the waters edge to pace wondering what he should do. He knew it would be up to the cub to decide. Malaika loved him so much that he would blame himself if anything ever happened to the cub. With a sigh he walked back into the cave and laid down next to simbaji. Carefully he placed his paw over him and cuddled close. He whispered into the cubs ear.

"I love you."