Ethan approached the main fence cautiously, a bucket of meat in hand. “Easy, girl,” he murmured. “You know me.” Shira’s eyes lifted from her corner, amber and watchful. She didn’t roar this time, but the sound that rose from her chest was worse. A deep, throaty growl, steady and low, like a warning that didn’t end.
“Hey,” Ethan said softly, taking another step. “Come on now. You’ve got to eat something.” He tossed a piece of meat toward her. It landed just inches from her paws, but she didn’t move. Her gaze stayed locked on him, unblinking. Caleb exhaled slowly. “She doesn’t look right, Ethan.”