“Sir,” Anika began, “let’s go back to the waiting area—” But Rowe was already moving. He bolted, shoulder-checking a security guard and sprinting down the hall toward the elevator. Shouts erupted. The bear roared again, a sound so primal it rattled every metal tray and heart monitor in the ward.
Rowe sprinted down the corridor, scattering visitors as security radios crackled to life. “Suspect fleeing east wing!” Martinez shouted, taking off after him. Alarms pulsed through the hospital. Down in the bay, the bear’s roar deepened in a vibration that seemed to shake concrete. The rangers stepped back from the trailer, wide-eyed.