Jessie quickly understood that the chimp’s aggressive actions weren’t meant to be harmful. It was evident the chimp, along with the small creature it protected, needed assistance – whether from her or a professional veterinarian. Jessie’s heart pounded with the responsibility of the moment, her resolve firming with the realization that she was now their only bridge to safety and care.
Jessie curled into herself, minimizing her presence to seem less intimidating. Amazingly, the chimp seemed to understand Jessie’s gesture. It relaxed a bit, and its pant-hoots turned into cautious whimpers. With the danger not feeling as immediate, Jessie took a deep breath. She could smell the clean scent of antiseptic in the air, which mixed with her growing determination to get help.