When everyone left, Zoren and Penny remained where they were, knowing there was no longer any danger. Penny stayed seated on the grass with Renny, while Zoren stood a few steps away.
"He likes you," Zoren said, earning a glance from her. "That's strange."
"Is it?" Penny let out an awkward laugh. "Well, I guess it is."
She shrugged and looked away, focusing on the black panther beside her. Another shallow breath slipped past her as she rubbed its broad back.
'Twelve years ago, he was just a small cub. He was even lighter than Mouse,' she thought, smiling at the memory. 'But now, he's grown so big. I can't carry him anymore.'
"I'll take this call first," Zoren said after a moment, referring to his call having been interrupted earlier.
"Sure."