The larger bear stood still, its eyes unreadable but calm. Then, without a sound, the bears turned and disappeared into the trees. Evelyn stood there for a long moment, rooted to the spot, heart full of a strange ache.
Gratitude. Wonder. Loss. Then she turned and walked back into town. The police station was quiet when she arrived, the journal clutched tightly in her hand. She asked to speak to someone in wildlife enforcement.