The cub nuzzled its mother’s chest, its soft whimpers replaced by tired grunts. The larger bear gave Evelyn one last, long look before turning toward the direction they had come. The mother bear followed, her steps slower, the cub now trotting beside her.
Evelyn walked behind them. They didn’t guide her this time—they walked with her. Three silhouettes winding through the forest, the golden light of early evening filtering through the trees.