“Why would males go after the cubs?”
“Competition mostly. Males see cubs as rivals for food and resources. They have no attachment to them, sometimes killing even their own to bring the female back into heat.” He shook his head. “She knows what they’re capable of, so she doesn’t back down easily. Most males will retreat from an aggressive sow, but not always.”
“That’s heartbreaking.”
“It is. Nature’s brutal that way.”
“Did she come after you?”
“She charged, but the rifle shot sent her off.” He said it simply, as if it hadn’t been much.
“Is it really illegal to kill a grizzly?”
“Yes. In Montana, it is illegal to harm, harass, or kill grizzly bears except in cases of self-defense or the defense of others. If you do kill one, you have to report it to FWP, fish, wildlife, and parks, then they’ll investigate the shooting.”
“It’s good that they’re protected though.”
Aftyn’s phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen. “Do you mind if I take this? It’s my aunt.”
“Of course not.” He lifted the remote as she slipped into the kitchen.
****
Aftyn pressed the phone to her ear and leaned against the counter. Through the half-open blinds, sunlight slanted in, dust particles drifting lazily through the beam.
“Hi, Aunt Ping.”
“Hi, sweetie. Any luck?”
“She’s been here in Clifton. Two places told me she was looking for work. She must have run out of cash or found out the cards were frozen.”
“And Judd? Is he with her?”
“I think so. He has money, but unless he quit his job he can’t stay away too long.”
“Call one of your friends at the hospital,” Ping said firmly. “Find out. I don’t trust him.”
Aftyn smiled. “I know you don’t.”
Ping’s voice softened. “How’s the apartment?”
“Lovely. You’d adore this town. All these little shops and brick storefronts. I imagine it’s magical at Christmas.”
“Send me photos. Do you need money?”
“No, I’m managing. It’s just the car that’s going to hurt. The engine needs replacing and there’s only one mechanic in town.”
“I told you I’d help you get a new one.” Frustration edged into her aunt’s voice. “For God’s sake, Aftyn, let me.”
Aftyn stared out the window above the sink, thephone cool against her cheek.
“I can’t do that,” she whispered.
A soft sigh drifted through the line. “You’re just like your mother. My sister refused help every time too. One stubborn woman.”
Aftyn smiled, remembering her mother’s hearty laugh, the way she’d stomp her foot and declare she could do anything herself. “She was, wasn’t she.”
“She’d be so disappointed in Avery.” Ping’s voice quieted. “I miss her.”
