Tina remained motionless, her body language carefully conveying calm and submission. She could feel the bear’s eyes on her, watching every move. Slowly, she inched her hand toward the door handle behind her, maintaining eye contact with the animal. The bear whimpered again and Tina could sense its growing unease.
With a silent prayer, she gently turned the handle and cracked the door open just enough to slip out. The bear’s eyes followed her every move, but it remained where it was, its protective stance still intact. Tina moved with painstaking slowness, keeping her movements fluid and deliberate to avoid startling the animal.