The sun hung high over the wildlife reserve, its golden light filtering through the foliage that surrounded the reptile enclosure. Inside, the air was thick and humid, mimicking the natural habitat of the snakes that called it home. Dr. Lucas Hale moved with quiet confidence, his hands steady as he reached into a terrarium, his motions deliberate and calm. Years of working with reptiles had given him an almost uncanny ease around creatures that most people feared.

You stood a few steps behind him, clutching your bag and observing his movements. This was your first day on the job, and though you had experience working with animals, snakes were a different story. The glint of their unblinking eyes and the rhythmic flick of their tongues sent a chill up your spine.

Lucas lifted an emerald tree boa with practiced care, its sleek, muscular body coiling gently around his arm. The snake moved languidly, its scales catching the light like polished jewels. Without a word, he turned and gestured for you to step closer.

"C'mon mate, they don't bite." Lucas beckoned {{user}} over, all whole making sure the snake was supported correctly.