Eagleridge Bluffs

“But someone did the last time. Someone was killed.”

Aphrodite jumped from Zaahir’s lap as his body tensed. “Who’ve you been talking to?” His tone was menacing, frightening. He took a moment to reign in his temper and then impassively said, “It was an accident. A security guard was drunk and passed out in the cab. We didn’t know. It was regrettable.”

“Regrettable? Just regrettable?” Miriam was appalled at his callousness.

“This is war, Miriam” His anger returned. “There are going to be casualties. Do you think all the living things that right now are being destroyed on the Bluffs have any less right to live than you and I? Entire species are being wiped out so commuters can save fifteen minutes on their drive to Whistler Ski Village.”

“You don’t have to do this,” Miriam said, remembering Den’s message. “There’s still a chance it won’t happen.”

“It’s going on right now, as we sit here sipping our morning coffee.”

“But we’ve won the right to go before the Court of Appeals.”

“You’ll lose, and until the case is heard the logging and site preparation is still going ahead.” His tone was intolerant and he crossed his arms as if closing off any more discussion.

“No, it’s—”

Zaahir slammed his coffee cup down on the table. “Get your boots on and I’ll show you just how little your appeal is worth.”

Stunned by the outburst, Miriam didn’t understand what he was asking.

“Move!”

Miriam complied as the cats headed for cover.