Some wariness was reasonable, and David was actually kind of relieved that she didn't give in and trust any animal just because a couple of adults said that it was safe. He stayed where he was, watching as Marigold let go of Leah's hand, and then watched her approach wordlessly.
The question was met with a light chuckle. "Nah. Mommy and I wouldn't bring you to see a bear that was gonna eat you, would we?" he asked her. "She actually eats plants and stuff. That's why we keep her by the trees out here." Not for the first time, David realized that he'd have to go out and get her some plants to last the winter, or else it would be a rough one. And sooner than later. Maybe sometime this week.
Bigger than Dog. David chuckled again and nodded his head. "Bigger than me, even!" he said lightly. At one point, Marigold had marveled at how tall David was. To a child that small, six-foot-two was huge. "But she's a lot fuzzier," he added with a smirk.
David watched quietly as Mochrie made a little pleased croon, and looked down at Marigold. "That means you're doing a good job." Just in case the noise had scared her. "You know what she really likes? When you scratch her right under her front leg here. Because it's hard for her to reach." He pointed at the right spot.