If a panda were to jump off a building in front of you, would you panic?
Everyone present certainly did. Standing on the 20th floor, the thought of Big White jumping and becoming a tragic spectacle terrified them.
"Hey! Please, buddy, calm down... Don't be impulsive. I know you understand me. If there's anything you need, we can talk it out, okay?" George called out, leaning through the window, his voice laced with fear.
At that moment, George felt as if the universe had sent this panda to test him. Twice now, when things seemed under control, chaos ensued at the last minute.
No one dared to make a sudden move, all eyes locked on the panda poised at the edge of the fire escape.
Big White himself was in a predicament. Standing so high up, on an exposed fire escape, the dizzying view of the street below made him lightheaded. His short legs trembled slightly.
If it weren't for the promise of freedom and a life without want, he wouldn't have resorted to this dramatic tactic.
Hearing the anxious voices behind him, he took a few steps back, satisfied that his point was made, and turned around.
Mayor Adams, observing from inside, noted Big White's behavior thoughtfully.
---
Seeing Big White turn around, the zoo director, nearly breathless with tension, finally relaxed, as did George and the others.
"Good boy, good boy," George murmured, extending a hand as if to coax Big White with sheer will.
For a moment, George believed Big White was calming down, so he tentatively moved toward the window.
But as soon as his foot crossed the threshold, Big White turned back toward the edge.
"No, no, no, I'm staying back! I won't come closer!" George exclaimed, retreating hastily.
Big White paused, his eyes fixated on Gwen inside.
Adams couldn't help but find amusement in the scene, viewing it as a clever performance rather than a genuine crisis.
This panda was remarkably intelligent, displaying none of the wild, irrational stress of typical animals. Instead, he resembled a mischievous child, full of charm and a touch of defiance.
When George withdrew, acknowledging Big White's wish to keep his distance, Gwen spoke up.
"Dad, I think he wants to talk to me," Gwen said, noticing Big White's gaze. She wondered why he hadn't spoken yet, suspecting the presence of too many people made him uneasy.
"...Alright, but be cautious. If he shows any unusual behavior, stop immediately," George advised, aware of Big White's apparent fondness for Gwen.
"No, let me speak to him first. After all, he grew up under my care," the director interjected, concerned about Gwen's capability.
"Remember, when Big White reappeared, he chose Gwen's room, not yours," George countered, stopping the director. "That speaks volumes."
"I can see the panda seems attached to her, so let her try," Adams agreed.
"Fine, but ensure nothing happens to Big White," the director conceded.
"No guarantees," George replied with a shrug, signaling Gwen to proceed.
Gwen nodded confidently and approached the window. As she stepped onto the fire escape, everyone watched with bated breath.
Fortunately, Big White remained calm, appearing expectant as Gwen drew closer.
"Phew... Good," George sighed, seeing the situation progress smoothly.
---
"Don't worry, we won't harm you. If you have something to say, you can tell me," Gwen assured, relaxing once on the fire escape.
Big White pointed at the window behind her, mimicking a closing motion.
"Close the window?" Gwen asked.
Big White nodded.
"You want to talk to me alone without them listening?"
Big White rolled his eyes, gesturing for her to hurry.
"I didn't expect you to be a panda who keeps secrets," Gwen teased, feeling at ease. She shut the window, ignoring the curious faces inside.
"...Okay, what do you want to say or do?" Gwen asked.
Big White glanced at the window, noting the faces pressed against it, then motioned for Gwen to come closer.
Once they were out of earshot, Big White spoke.
"Next time people come, warn me. You know I don't want to go back," Big White said softly.
"But you're a panda, and it's dangerous outside. I like you, but they won't let us keep you," Gwen explained.
"I understand... Who are these people?" Big White asked, gesturing to the unfamiliar faces.
"The mayor of New York City and Animal Protection staff. One runs the city, the other protects animals globally... You must be quite important," Gwen replied.
"Tell them I need freedom. I promise not to harm people, but I want to follow your dad, become a police panda, and catch criminals for food," Big White proposed.
"Occasionally, I can participate in events to promote New York, but I want a share of the rewards."
---
With a newfound understanding, Gwen listened intently, ready to convey Big White's terms to those waiting inside.