Friends Who Rest

Tiggy, his stripes practically vibrating with newfound energy, bounded towards the banyan tree where his monkey friends usually swung. He could hardly wait to tell them about his amazing idea: a super-duper, extra-long game of chase! He’d practiced his pounces all morning, and now he was ready to unleash his tiger-speed on his pals. As he neared, however, a strange quiet hung in the air. The usual chattering and shrieking of monkeys was replaced by a soft, rhythmic snuffling. He peeked through the thick green leaves and saw them, all curled up in a heap on a wide, sun-dappled branch. Miko the monkey, who was usually the first to leap and the loudest to laugh, was fast asleep, his little hands tucked under his chin. Even Pip, the most mischievous of the bunch, was snoring softly, his tail curled around him like a furry question mark.

“Miko? Pip?” Tiggy whispered, nudging Miko gently with his nose. Miko blinked one eye open, a sleepy haze clouding his usually bright gaze. “Oh, Tiggy,” he mumbled, his voice thick with slumber. “Shhh. Naptime.” He yawned, a wide, pink cavern opening in his face, and snuggled deeper into the leafy bed. Tiggy’s heart sank a little. He’d been so sure they’d want to play. He tried Pip, but Pip just stirred, let out a little “hoo-hoo” sound, and rolled over.

Disappointed, Tiggy padded away from the banyan tree. Maybe his parrot friends would be awake. They were always so colorful and noisy, ready for any adventure! He trotted towards the tall acacia trees, where Polly and Percy often perched, squawking their greetings. But as he got closer, the only sound was the gentle rustling of leaves and a soft, feathery sigh. There they were, Polly and Percy, nestled together on a high branch. Polly’s vibrant green and blue feathers were ruffled, and Percy’s bright yellow head was tucked under his wing. They looked so peaceful, so utterly asleep.