Page 29 of The Bear's Forever Mat
Cooper wrapped an arm around Amber and squeezed in encouragement. “If he was here, we might be able to figure out where he went next. If you have any way of checking your records, we would appreciate it.”
A whispered conversation was taking place amongst a group of children who had gathered. They watched with fascination as each wolf pack member slipped out of their own harness then trotted off after the locals guiding them to places to spend the night.
But now a small girl came forward, slipping her hand into the elder’s before looking up for permission to speak.
The woman offered a smile before turning to Amber. “My granddaughter.” She looked at the little girl. “Do you remember something, Jessie?”
The girl nodded instantly. “I can show you. I think it was him.”
Jessie took Amber’s hand in hers then, to Cooper’s shock, she boldly grabbed his hand as well, tugging them both toward what had to be a common gathering house.
“It was a long time ago, but I remember him because he had the same smiling eyes you have. Not just a smile on his lips, but here.” She tapped the side of her head. “As if his happiness was shining out on all of us.”
Jessie paused outside the door of a large community center before guiding them into a playroom.
Cooper followed as Jessie headed to a bookshelf and pulled down an artist’s notebook. Inside there were more than a dozen sketches of the children of the community. Some showed them playing, others depicted them working with their families.
All of them were signed by Mason, with the date from approximately a year earlier.
Amber ran a finger over the page. “He was here. And yes, he has smiling eyes,” she told Jessie before opening her arms to offer a hug. “Thank you for showing me these. It makes it feel as if I’m closer to him than I was before.”
The little girl slipped into Amber’s embrace and squeezed.
Cooper watched as Amber closed her eyes and seemed to soak in strength from the sweet exchange.
It was nearly an hour later by the time all the wolves had found showers and clothing, and everyone gathered together to discuss what came next.
“My children checked the records to see if there was anything recorded about where Mason planned to go next. As far as we can tell, he took the northeastern trade route toward the Arctic coast. He promised to drop off packages with some of our family along the way.” Chief Starling leaned her elbows on the table. “I can offer you the same help we gave him. Some skidoos, and directions to supply stops.”
Before Amber could say anything, because she was obviously eager to accept, Cooper spoke up. “How long a journey is it?”
The old woman considered. “A week? Maybe a few days more or a few days less depending on the weather.”
Cooper turned to Amber, ignoring the murmur in the background as the information trickled down to the wolves. “If you want to do this, I’ll go with you, but I don’t think we can expect everyone else to come along.”
She tangled her fingers in his where they lay in his lap. “I know, and it’s wonderful to have them here, but as long as you come with me, we’ll be okay.”
He lifted their joined hands and kissed her knuckles. “Of course I’m coming with you. That was never in question.”
“I knew that too.” She squeezed his fingers then turned back to the table and the head of the clan. “Your offer is very generous, and we appreciate it very much.”
Chief Starling nodded then clapped her hands to get the attention of the assembled group. “Since you will be staying the night, I guess we should have a party. If I can get some volunteers to help get ready?”
She was swarmed by wolves then laughed as she pointed them in a dozen different directions.
Cooper found himself alone with his brothers as Kaylee and Lara stole Amber away.
Alex looked him over then nodded. “It’s pretty much what I expected you to do at some point. Ride off into the wilderness, looking for answers.”
“I didn’t think you’d be doing it with a human,” James said, “but Amber’s perfect for you. I hope this works out.”
Cooper shook his hand and patted him on the back the way brothers do—i.e. nearly hard enough to knock James’s lungs out. “Of course it’s going to work out. Now go make sure Alex’s wolves aren’t getting into mischief.”
“Why are theymywolves when they’re being bad? How come they’re not Lara’s wolves?” Alex complained.
Cooper just raised a brow.
As soon as James trotted off and they were alone, though, Alex’s expression turned serious. “Are you feeling okay?”
