Daisy was background to the tigers roaring, parrots squawking, and visitors with cameras. Yet Zachary found himself watching her more than the exhibits. She had a way of tilting her head at him, as though weighing his very soul. That gaze unsettled him. It was comfort and challenge combined.
He started confiding in her. Ridiculous, he knew. But when nights pressed heavily, paperwork stacked, and managers complained, Daisy listened. He told her about his loneliness and years spent caged in routine. Sometimes she even nudged his leg, as though validating his feelings and offering solace.