Janet is a young and gentle monkey, still learning the ways of her troop. She’s not the strongest or the most dominant, but she has a kind heart and often finds comfort in being close to the older females, especially Jane. Jane, a calm and nurturing matriarch, has become like a mother to many of the younger monkeys in the group. She shares food, offers protection, and at times, even lets the younger ones nurse for comfort — a rare but touching gesture in monkey society.
Earlier today, while the sun filtered softly through the treetops, Janet approached Jane with her usual shy demeanor. After a short moment of grooming and affection, Jane allowed Janet to nurse briefly. It was a moment of quiet tenderness, a bond that spoke of trust and emotional closeness.
But not all eyes in the troop saw it the same way.
Blacky, another young female monkey, had been watching from a nearby branch. She has always been more dominant than Janet — bolder, louder, and more possessive of Jane. Seeing Janet so close to Jane — and especially being allowed to drink milk — stirred something fierce inside her. To Blacky, this wasn’t just about milk. It was about attention, hierarchy, and power.
Without warning, Blacky leapt down from the branch, landing just a few feet away from Janet. Her body was tense, her eyes locked on Janet with a cold stare. Janet sensed the danger and backed away, but it was too late.
Blacky lunged forward, shrieking and grabbing at Janet’s fur. The two tumbled to the ground, rolling in a whirlwind of squeals and flailing limbs. Jane immediately sprang into action, barking sharply and pushing the two apart. Other monkeys scattered, some watching nervously from a distance.
Janet whimpered, clearly shaken but not badly hurt. She curled into herself near the base of a tree, while Jane sat beside her, offering gentle touches of reassurance. Blacky paced nearby, still angry but keeping her distance now, knowing Jane had taken Janet’s side.
Moments like these are not uncommon in monkey troops. Relationships are complex, emotions are strong, and even small actions can tip the social balance. What might seem like a harmless act — a bit of milk, a few minutes of affection — can mean so much more in the eyes of another.
For Janet, today was a painful reminder that kindness sometimes comes with consequences. But with Jane’s protection, she will heal — both her body and her heart.
