When Zachary returned to the enclosure, Daisy bounded forward expectantly, cubs tumbling behind her. None of them knew what was coming. His chest ached as he crouched to stroke Daisy’s ears, memorizing her warmth. She licked his hand, tail wagging. He whispered, “I’m sorry,” though she couldn’t understand.
The night before the final separation, Zachary couldn’t sleep. He walked to the enclosure, rain misting his face. Daisy lay curled with the cubs, their striped bodies rising and falling against hers. The sight hollowed him out. He leaned against the glass, whispering, “Forgive me,” as if her steady breathing might answer.