Chapter 42 – The Great Outdoors

It was about 7pm and we sat on our picnic rug under the big tree as the gentle breeze made the leaves rustle ever so slightly. We hadnt done much but taken the view in and gone for a short walk along the creek. I explained to Tina about the animals that lived in the creek, the yabbies, how to catch and the eat them, baby fresh water lobsters really. We marveled how green the plants near the water were and how golden everything else was. The creek flowed gently and had muddy banks. Id been walking with no shoes so I had muddy feet. We didnt talk much, just took in each others company and our surroundings. I could see Tina looking at my feet.

Tina : Bette, I didnt think Id see the day She nodded towards my feet.

Bette : Some things change Tee. I said simply with half a smile and half seriously.

Tina : I can see that she said playfully. What changed Bette that you stopped coming here ? A place that is so dear to your heart and you havent visited in 15 years

Bette : I shrug my shoulders. Its not that important to me Tee

Tina : Really ? she said doubtfully, raising one eye brow that indicated she required a response. Bette, you only ever mentioned this place to me once, yet when you felt you had nowhere else to go, that your life was in turmoil, you come here, to a place half way around the world, not one of your friends know about, your family doesnt talk about and no one knew where to find you. If its not important to you, why such a secret ?

Bette : I guess I knew this conversation would come at some time, that Tee would have questions about this place. I came here for me Tina, not for you, not for us. I said just a little too sharply and really not how I meant it. I was standing up, Tina sitting beside me, looking out over the creek, up at the small hills, watching the sun slowly go down, the rays reflecting of the brown and gold dry grass that covered the hills resentful of having to answer questions about a place that has bought me so much happiness, relief and grief over time.