The visitors gasped. Some covered their mouths with their hands, others immediately pulled out their phones, expecting to witness a horrific scene. The lion rose to its feet and slowly walked toward the tiny kitten. Its steps were heavy, and a threatening roar echoed through the enclosure. It seemed like it would strike any second.

The kitten pressed itself even harder against the wall, barely breathing. There was no escape.

The lion came right up close. He lowered his enormous head, looked straight into the tiny creature’s eyes, and let out a deep growl that made the crowd even more terrified…