Alarmed, you spring to your feet and back into the wall of the shed. You’re expecting police, or some sort of zoo security, or…
The door clicks open and a mild mannered young zookeeper with red hair and freckles enters the shed.
“I-It’s safe to cone out now,” she says shyly, eyeing you up and down in alarm, “Savannah is waiting for you.”
“S-Savannah?”
A large spotted head lowers down into view and a familiar smile greets you. “That’s me,” the lady giraffe chuckles.
Startled, you step out of the shed and you’re inches away from a 12 foot tall gentle giant. Savannah the giraffe looks down on you with a patient grin.
“You okay?” She chuckles, seeing your waning fear as the redhead vanishes down the path and is eventually lost to sight behind some tall trees.
“Sorry, that just startled me, is all.”
“Hey, I’m a giraffe of my word.” She shrugs her front shoulders a little and turns to glance down at you. “So, I was thinking I could take you on a tour of the grounds. We could meet some of my friends. How does that sound?”
“God, that sounds amazing!” You’re blushing. You can feel it. You’re so excited for the adventure that lies ahead.
“Great,” Savannah nods. “I suppose we better shake on it?”
You blink, watching as the giraffe holds up her right front hoof and smiles down at you warmly. You take it in your hand as the huge cloven foot shakes up and down in your palm.
“Savannah,” the giraffe introduces herself with a warm grin, before giving you an odd look. “You, uh, doing okay there, my friend? You look a bit sweaty.”
“A little overwhelmed by all of this,” you gulp, offering a weak laugh. “Sorry. I’ve never met an intelligent animal before. Especially such a nice one like you.”
Savannah’s brown eyes widen and she smirks. “Hey, are you… are you hitting on me?”