Saturday had always been Lily’s favorite day. She and her dad, Caleb, had a deal—homework done, chores finished, shoes off the rug—and they’d visit Maplewood Wildlife Sanctuary.
That morning she was ready before dawn, backpack stuffed with pencils and a sandwich. Caleb found her waiting by the door and laughed. “You know the gates won’t open for another hour, right?”
“Then we’ll be first,” she grinned. Dew clung to the carved archway when they arrived, foxes and owls etched into the wood like watchful spirits.
“Morning, Lily!” called Ethan, the tall keeper in a green jacket. He always had a new animal fact. “You’re early again.” “Couldn’t wait,” she said. “Well,” he smiled, “your favorite’s already out.”
