Ethan followed his gaze. The left flank of the tigress bulged outward, unnaturally round beneath the stripes; not fat, not muscle. A swollen lump distorted the rhythm of her breathing. “Jesus,” one of the keepers whispered. “That wasn’t there yesterday.” Ethan’s jaw tightened. “Back away. Everyone.” They stepped away from the fence as he radioed the vet on duty.
His voice was calm, but Caleb could hear the edge underneath. “Possible swelling on the left abdominal side. Refusing food. Aggressive response when approached.” When he turned back, Lily was watching him with wide, worried eyes. “Is she sick?” Ethan hesitated before answering. “We don’t know yet. But we have to find out soon.”