Scooby’s behavior destabilized. The pacing returned, faster now. He pressed closer to Betty, positioning his body protectively even indoors. He was not violent, but he was no longer at ease either. His size and his unease made Vanessa scared for Betty.
Finally, after much to and fro, a deadline was set. Decisions were made within days. Vanessa nodded and thanked them, then stood alone in the room afterward, watching her daughter and the creature beside her, knowing the clock had started its ticking.