A Private Proposal

LaRee was the first to be put to bed, with Baloo taking a bit longer due to his great size and slovenly sad demeanor.

In the end, it was Ayse and Zuck stepping out of the servant quarters, leaving the door half-closed with Aegri at the side of Baloo's bed. 

"I'm so sorry for what I said, Little Loo."

She rubbed his back with a lullaby apology.

"Please, forgive me. Once you're feeling better in the morning, I'll tell you again. But sleep well, knowing that I never meant to hurt you in any way. It's one of the last things I could ever want."

"Sss-sssorry… I'm sssssorry…" Baloo gently hissed. Each back rub gradually loosened his tense tail. 

Meanwhile, Ayse was stuck in the lounge with the old man.

"Thanks for delivering them. That saved me a lot of time." 

"Don't mention it, my boy. What are pals for?"

S-S-Smack!

Zuck pounded on the young man's back with unusual vigor.