Tension rippled through the camp as they realized help might be closing in. The leading poacher barked orders to pack their gear and relocate. Another wanted to handle Mike and Nicole immediately. Mike’s stomach lurched at the threat, but he noticed flickers of fear in the group.
Time felt suspended, weighed down by the possibility of violence. The mother bear paced, muzzle lifted, as if sniffing the air. It sensed something approaching, something that might shift the balance. Mike inhaled slowly, hoping the final confrontation was near, praying for rescue.