The zookeepers were poised to intervene, but the gorilla’s demeanor gave them pause. Koko then did something extraordinary: she began to gently groom the elderly man, as if welcoming him into her group. This behavior was a clear sign of acceptance and affection in gorillas, a gesture usually reserved for members of their troop. The crowd, initially buzzing with fear and confusion, fell silent, mesmerized by what they were witnessing.