The hippo’s nostrils flare as it surveys the quiet riverbank. Its skin glistens in the early morning sun, a canvas of pink and gray. Nearby, a pile of fresh watermelons sits on the shore, their green rinds shining with promise. The air is still, save for the distant chirps of weaver birds.

With ponderous steps, the hippo approaches the mound, its wide mouth opening in greedy anticipation. It sniffs at the nearest melon, nostrils twitching as it absorbs the sugary aroma. The world narrows to the promise of a juicy feast, and even the river seems to pause, watching.

Juice dribbles down the hippo’s chin as it grinds the fruit between its molars. The crunch echoes across the riverbank, startling a pair of nearby herons. The hippo’s eyes close in pleasure, savoring the cool, sweet burst of flavor.

A young vervet monkey, perched on a low branch, leans forward, eyes wide. "Did you see that? He crushed it like it was nothing!" Another monkey giggles, clapping its hands as juice splatters the grass.

The hippo munches contentedly, its sides heaving with each breath. Birds flutter down to peck at stray pieces of melon, and the monkeys scamper closer, hoping for a taste. The riverbank becomes a small celebration, united by the hippo’s feast.

The hippo sinks into the cool river, eyes just above the surface. The other animals linger, their morning brightened by the unexpected show. Peace settles over the riverbank as the sun continues its climb, promising more surprises with each new day.