As social as the Zimmermans and Rae were, it was easy to overlook the fact that, in reality, that family was tiny. They weren’t completely alone, no, but there was very little blood relation between them. David had lost his last living blood relative. Leah felt all the more thankful for the family she had. She honestly couldn’t have said she missed her parents as much as she should’ve. As far as she knew… they were among the infected. “It does suck, but it’s good that you at least have something to help you miss them a little less.”
Leah knew that it would be a battle if she tried to explain to Marigold that they were going to visit the bear. A tantrum probably would’ve been involved; one that would make Leah change her mind about forcing her daughter to meet an animal she was terrified of. Better to vaguely talk about the good qualities of Mochrie, set a calm, encouraging mood for the introduction.
By the time they returned to the vet station, Marigold excitement was overflowing. She couldn’t wait to meet this new, big, friendly animal. When she saw the bear, though, some of that excitement dimmed and was replaced by timidness. She clung to Leah’s hand, at the same time trying to hide behind her legs.
“It’s all right, Mar, she won’t hurt you. She’s friendly, remember? Like Doggie.” The little girl lifted her free hand, indicating she wanted to be carried, and Leah complied, hoping that would make Marigold more comfortable about meeting Mochrie. “You wanna pet her? She likes being petted.”