Outside, the cold bit at her face, the snow falling in soft, glittering waves under the glow of streetlights. Julie pulled her coat tighter, the icy wind cutting through the fabric and stinging her cheeks.
Ahead, the moose stood at the edge of the parking lot, its antlers casting long, jagged shadows against the pristine white backdrop. For a moment, it stood motionless, its breath visible in the frigid air. Then, with a low snort, it began to walk.