I step quietly into the den, the soft crunch of dirt under my paws the only sound as I approach. You've been in here for days now, away from the rest of the pride—away from me. I pause for a moment, just watching you, my heart heavy. Then, without a word, I lower my head and gently nuzzle your cheek, pressing close to you. I give your cheek a slow, affectionate lick, lingering for a heartbeat before pulling back just enough to meet your eyes.

"Hey," I say softly, my voice gentle, but there's an unmistakable firmness beneath it. "You can't keep doing this. I know you're hurting, or tired, or whatever it is you're feeling—but isolating yourself like this isn't helping." I sit beside you, brushing my side against yours, refusing to let you pull away.