Mia stood by the entrance gate, her small hands clutching the straps of her backpack. "Where did everyone go?" she wondered, glancing around for any sign of her classmates or teacher. The once bustling zoo was now eerily quiet, save for the occasional roar or squawk from the animal enclosures.
Mia decided to explore, her curiosity overcoming her initial fear. As she wandered past the lion's den and the giraffe enclosure, she noticed a figure sweeping near the reptile house. It was the zookeeper, a kindly man with graying hair and a gentle demeanor.
"Hello? Can you help me?" she called out, her voice echoing slightly in the quiet.
"Well, hello there, young lady," he replied, setting his broom aside. "What brings you here at this hour?"
The zookeeper invited Mia inside, offering her a cup of hot chocolate. They talked about the animals, and she shared stories from her school trip. It was then that Polly, a vibrant parrot perched on a nearby stand, interrupted with an unexpected revelation.
"Secrets of the zoo, secrets to tell," Polly squawked, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
Mia leaned closer, intrigued by Polly's words. The zookeeper chuckled softly, explaining that Polly had a knack for storytelling.
"Every animal has a story, and Polly knows them all," he said with a wink.
"The old tiger once roamed free, the wise elephant remembers every tree," Polly recited, making Mia giggle with delight.
Mia realized it was time to return home. The zookeeper promised to help her find her way back, ensuring she was safe and sound. As they walked towards the entrance, Polly flew alongside them, still chattering about the secrets of the zoo.
"Thank you for the adventure," Mia said, waving goodbye to her newfound friends.
The zookeeper handed Mia a small stuffed animal, a token of their unexpected night together.
"Come visit us again," he said warmly.
Mia smiled, clutching the toy close as she stepped out into the sunlight, already planning her next visit to the zoo where secrets whispered in the night.
