Peter Answers

Frustrated but unfazed, Hana yanked out her phone and tapped Peter’s contact. Her brother had spent years tracking black bears for conservation photos; if anyone would understand, it was him. He answered from a rain-soaked campsite, generator humming behind him. Hana breathlessly explained the scene: a calm bear, an injured hybrid pup, hospital bureaucracy blocking aid.

Peter’s tone shifted from weary to laser-focused. He told Hana to keep the room dim, minimize sudden movement, and check the pup’s vitals. He promised to reach St. Celeste in twenty minutes, headlights splashing through puddles. Before hanging up, he added, almost teasing, that she still owed him coffee for doubting his bear stories.