Protective Mother
The mother hippo lumbered forward, her nostrils flaring. Normally, such a sight would send anyone running. But Julia stood her ground, despite her racing heart. The calf squealed again and pressed against her legs, as if begging her to make the connection.
Julia lifted her hands slowly. “It’s okay,” she whispered, her voice steady but soft. “We’re here to bring you home.” The zookeepers held their breath, ready for anything. The massive animal blinked, hesitating.
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