Did the girl really have to wait for the python to be right in front of her before she could do anything?
The girl pressed her lips together.
A trace of stubbornness appeared on her slightly uneasy face.
"Of course I have to thank it in person."
And...
She wanted to become friends with Red Eyes, the python.
She was too embarrassed to say that out loud.
The Short-haired man was at a loss for words.
What the girl said...
Did make sense.
But knowing that the recipient of her thanks was a snake...
Somehow, it still felt a little strange.
This girl...
The Short-haired man smiled.
She was truly more earnest than he could have imagined.
And... she seemed to have a heart that belonged in a fairy tale.
"All right."
Maybe the girl's determination was a little childish, but the Short-haired man didn't think he needed to deny her that.
As long as she was happy.
"Anyway, today was a huge step forward."
That aloof snake had finally paid attention to the child.
Was the snake surprised by the girl's persistence, too?
"Mm!"
The girl nodded emphatically.
Today had absolutely been a major step forward.
She was so happy.
Watching the child look so happy, the Short-haired man felt even more strongly that she should do whatever she wanted.
It wasn't hurting anyone.
Who hadn't done something foolish as a child?
Not only had the staff at the Reptile House grown familiar with the girl, but many of the zoo's other employees had, too.
They had heard her story.
They found it a little unbelievable...
She had really gone to such lengths for a snake?
Was that really necessary?
But they also thought it was quite amusing.
The girl was just