Although it had been three years since Zira’s death and the Outlanders had joined the Pride Lands, Kopa had never truly felt the same. Ever since Vitani ended their relationship, he had carried a quiet bitterness he couldn’t shake. He understood why she left—she had become the new leader of the Lion Guard, and she wanted to focus on proving herself. He respected her choice. He always would. But what hurt was how quickly she moved on. Only weeks later, Vitani had found love again with another lion, Suwesi. Kopa told everyone he was happy for her. He meant it.

But that didn’t mean the loneliness disappeared. It seemed like everyone around him had found the love of their life. His parents, Then Kiara and Kovu. Asante and Afua. Kion and Rani. And now Fluffy and Bebe had just recently started dating. Meanwhile, his father had begun getting more serious about passing the crown down to him as Simba’s years as king grew shorter. But Kopa refused. Because he wouldn’t rule alone.

Every time his mother or sisters reminded him that his queen was somewhere out there, he tried to believe them. He wanted to. But the longer the seasons passed without finding her, the heavier the emptiness became. And the worst part was that he didn’t want just anyone. There were plenty of lionesses who chased after him because he was Simba’s eldest, because he was future king, because of his appearance. But Kopa didn’t want someone who loved his title. He wanted someone who loved him.

⸻

His 23rd birthday was no different. The celebration at Pride Rock was filled with laughter, music, and family. He smiled when he needed to. He laughed when expected. But beneath it all, something felt missing. When the night finally settled, Kopa slipped away from the celebration and wandered toward the nearest watering hole, hoping the quiet would clear his mind.