“Has she ever done this before?” Jamie asked, eyes wide. Asha shook her head. “No. Not with anyone. Not since the cub.” Her voice cracked slightly. “She’s been grieving. Refusing food. Ignoring us. But now…” She didn’t finish. Her radio buzzed again. “Do we sedate?” someone asked. Asha hesitated.
“No,” she said firmly. “We do nothing yet. She’s not aggressive. She’s showing care. Tell me I’m wrong.” The vet, who had just arrived, stepped beside her. “No, you’re right. Look at the body language. Tail down. Ears forward. She’s mimicking maternal behavior.” Nibbles yawned and licked Meera’s cheek.