It seemed to Majiti that he had to let Shenzi know that he was a person, and not just a servant. He had brought this upon himself, really, by bringing her all this food without complaint: she must be thinking that was all he had to offer. He had to show her otherwise.

"I'm sorry for talking back at you," he said, his head lowered.

"Hmm?"

Majiti waited, keeping his posture submissive. He took a deep breath, hoping that what he was about to try would work, and that she wouldn't think he was weak.

"I was angry. I shouldn't have snapped at you."

"Darn right!"

He pretended he hadn't heard her. "Just that... I had to break up a pretty big fight today. Truth is it took a lot out of me. Lots of males got hurt today. It was all I could to scavenge that one piece for you. Plus I haven't eaten in a few days... puts me in a crabby mood."

He looked up from under his mane, trying to gauge her expression.