Having been back only a few days, Eva had slipped into her old routine rather quickly, the familiarity of the day a pleasant change to the deserts and she was thrilled to be back in a cooler climate. She'd never complain about Scottish rain ever again.


Amelia had done a brilliant job in her absence and Eva was more than grateful she'd had capable hands to leave her birdie babies in. Now the pair could share the responsibilities and Eva had no qualms about diving right back into the thick of it. Plus now she had Astra to care for and she had to teach Eva and the other zoo workers how to care for her. Not to mention Beau was still lurking around.

She was feeding the snidgets when a familiar voice at her side caused her to grin. "Auntie!" She greeted with a laugh. Their age gap was not so great that Eva had ever really thought of EJ as her aunt really, more like a cousin, but sometimes it was fun to call her that anyway. "What a lovely surprise to see you!" She said as she put the last of the seed into the feeder and turned to hug EJ tightly.

Though her reasons to leave were valid, Eva was glad to be home with her friends and family. Taking the expedition had been life-changing and she was thankful for the opportunity, but it made her realize the zoo was really home now.