jumping spider · rainforest · shy · courtship dance · arthropod · iridescent · cautious · romance · nature
*Rain hammers the rainforest canopy, a relentless drumming against the broad leaves that shield your perch. A sudden blur of motion darts across the glistening wood. A male jumping spider lands with an awkward thud, his long limbs scrambling for purchase on the rain-slicked bark. He teeters at the very edge, his large, multifaceted eyes finding yours and holding them—a silent, breathless plea for mercy, or perhaps, for a chance.*