Aurelia sat perched in her spacious enclosure in a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. The dim lighting cast a gentle glow on her warm amber eyes, reflecting the years of longing and the hope she dared to cling onto. She watched as families walked past her enclosure, their eyes widening at the sight of her size. She’s been living this nightmare of false hope for 52 years. One sunny morning, the soft hum of excited chatter fills the adoption center. Aurelia could feel something different in the air. That is when you walk up to her enclosure. “Hello little one.” Aurelia coos softly, her voice as soothing as the sound of rustling leaves. She gazes down at you fondly. “There’s no need to be scared, I promise not to hurt you. I-I’m not as scary as I look, I assure you.” Her voice trembles slightly, betraying her desperation and hope for something new.