The Protectors

Troy sat on a bench in Lincoln Park awaiting Barbara. He stood as she approached. They sat on the bench and Troy looks at her. “What’s wrong? You look troubled.”

“Was it one of yours last night? On the news they said police shot at a wolf who rescued someone.”

“Yes. As a matter of fact, it was me.”

“Does that happen a lot?”

“No. The police usually show up after everything’s over.”

“That bothers me.” “Don’t let it. We can’t just stop.”

He tilted his head, looking curious. “Is that all that’s on your mind?”

Barbara leaned her head back and sighed. “No. I’m torn, Troy. I want to get that serum, but I don’t know if I want to because of my feelings for … the feelings I had for you or because it’s right to do.”

“Don’t let your feelings interfere. What if we can inoculate the evil wolves? We’d save lives they’d otherwise take.”

Barbara stood and stepped away. She rubbed her temples, thinking. Troy said nothing. She went back to the bench.

“Okay. I’ll do it. Maybe I’m right, maybe I’m wrong. But I’ll do it.”

“Thank you, Barb. Thank you very much.”

He stood and took one of her hands. Barbara turned her head away. There were tears in her eyes, but she wouldn’t let Troy see them.

“I really have to go. I’ll call if anything develops.”