Ryan gasped, his eyes wide with excitement rather than fear. "Wow!" he squealed, taking hesitant steps towards the towering creature.
Damien lowered himself to the ground, lying on his belly in front of Ryan. His massive head rested on his paws, amber eyes watching the boy with an expression that seemed almost soft. Ryan, with the innocent curiosity of a four-year-old, stretched out his hand and touched Damien's fur. The moment his fingers sank into the thick black coat, he squealed with delight.
"He's soft, Mommy!" Ryan beamed, giggling as he ran his hands through Damien's fur.