It was supposed to be just a simple family outing—a sunny afternoon at the local petting zoo. For Emma and Tom, it was a rare break from work. For their six-year-old daughter, Lily, it was pure magic.
“Mom, look at the turtle! It’s huge!” Lily shouted, running ahead, pigtails bouncing.
Tom chuckled. “Careful, kiddo—he’s not exactly a cuddler.”
But Lily was already off, chasing rabbits and squealing with delight. Emma and Tom watched, smiles tugging at their faces. It had been months since they’d felt this carefree, this alive.
When they reached the otter pool, Lily froze. Her wide eyes locked onto one otter gliding through the water. Then something astonishing happened. The otter—sleek, playful, and alert—swam straight toward her, climbed onto the rocks, and stretched her little webbed paws toward the child.
Lily crouched down, pressing her hands gently against the glass. The otter mirrored her movements, slid back into the water, then popped up again—closer this time—chirping and squeaking as if speaking directly to her.
Continue reading on next page…