Barney walked through the lush green forest. THUMP, THUMP, THUMP went his big paws.
Small animals heard the heavy footsteps. They scurried behind trees and bushes, hiding in the cool shadows.
Barney spotted a tiny mouse peeking from behind a root. He slowly crouched and held out a red berry.
"For you," Barney rumbled softly. The mouse’s nose twitched—then ACHOO! The berry landed on Barney’s nose.
Barney laughed with a deep, rumbling sound. He offered the berry again and waved one giant paw.
The mouse took one tiny step forward. Suddenly, an owl landed above with a loud HOO!
The mouse froze and trembled. Barney gently lifted the little animal onto his broad, furry shoulder.
"I'm not scary," Barney said with a warm smile. Above them, the owl tilted its head and hooted softly.
Slowly, the animals peek from behind the trees. One by one, they stepped into the light.
Barney waved and smiled. Soon, happy chirps, squeaks, and hoots filled the forest around the gentle lion.