Tension Rising
The forest grew thicker, branches hanging low and tangling underfoot. The zookeepers exchanged nervous glances. A hippo outside its environment was unpredictable, especially a mother separated from her calf. David squeezed Julia’s hand, whispering, “Be careful.” She nodded, her eyes fixed on the path.
The baby hippo squealed louder now, bounding forward a few steps before waiting for Julia again. It was leading them straight toward something hidden in the trees, something they were all nervous to meet.