Outside, Parker’s team loaded feed and sedative vials into the truck. The bear watched through the slats, expression unreadable but still. “He’s the quietest intake we’ve ever had,” Parker said. “Won’t eat, won’t growl, just… waits.” “He’s waiting to meet the boy. We’ll see,” Anika said.
By the time Clara Rowe arrived, rain had returned. Her hair clung to her temples, eyes swollen from crying. When she saw Evan, she gasped, a sound torn between grief and disbelief. “My baby,” she whispered. He stirred, smiling faintly. “Mom.” She kissed his forehead, trembling. “They said a bear brought you here?”