Almost imperceptibly, the bear’s hackles began to settle. The deep rumble in its throat quieted, tapering into a strained breath that fogged the chilly air. It shifted its massive weight from one paw to the other, seemingly puzzled.
Mike sensed the standoff had reached a crossroads. He refused to move, willing his presence to act as a barrier to any rash reaction from either the bear or Nicole. Then, the tension eased like a taut rope slowly unwinding.