Open Writing

Helen knelt weeding the corner of the garden she loved the most. She had hoped the calm and quiet would help her find the words and courage she needed to confess to her husband. But even the soothing hum of the bees busy in the evening warmth couldn't ease her anxiety.

Carrying two mugs of tea, John made his way toward his wife, a worried frown on his usually happy face, as he tried to think of a cause that could be troubling Helen, making her so quiet and withdrawn. It was so unlike her, they had always been able to discuss their problems.

Putting the mugs on the garden table he remarked. "Your herbs are looking good darling. I expect you will soon be cutting them for drying."
"I suppose so," Helen replied shortly. This was the last thing on her mind. Tomorrow her life could be changed, and what she was about to do affect her whole family. She couldn't imagine the reaction of everyone, especially her husband and children, Mark and Jennifer.
She must talk to John.

"Come and sit down and drink your tea," said John.

Side by side they silently took in the beauty of the garden they had lovingly planned and worked on together, each remembering special plans they had amicably argued over. All the summer blooms were at their best, the colours shimmering in the evening sunshine. In the background the gentle splash of the fountain caused ripples on the small pond, which now covered the area where a swing and sand pit had given many hours of amusement to the children. Now this part of the garden secluded by roses and small shrubs formed an oasis of calm and peace.

Finishing her tea, Helen picked up her gardening gloves and small fork and set off toward the house, preparing in her mind what she would tell John. Hearing the telephone she hurried indoors. As she expected, it was Christopher, calling with details about the train tomorrow, and assuring her he would be waiting to meet her at Paddington. Sensing the tension in her voice, he gently went over all he had said, trying to ease her anxiety and worry.

As she replaced the telephone John called "Who was that darling?"
Helen hesitated before replying, "Oh! Just someone with details about a meeting." This didn't seem unusual as Helen belonged to several local groups, and sat on a number of committees. But John thought it odd she had not given more detail. What could be the matter?

"Do you feel like a stroll to the Woodpecker for a drink, it's such a lovely evening?" suggested John. This was a favourite evening walk they both enjoyed.

Pausing slightly Helen agreed "I'll just wash my hands and change my shoes."

They set off down the lane leading to the canal towpath. Reaching the lock they stopped to watch a boat passing through. They recalled their own boating holidays, with the children and later by themselves, unfortunately no longer possible due to John's Arthritis.

Helen felt more relaxed as they continued their walk, accompanied by a flotilla of noisy ducks hoping for some titbits. A warm evening breeze ruffled their hair and gently fanned their faces.

Arriving at the Pub they were warmly greeted by several friends already seated in the garden. Catherine and Bob Grantham, friends of many years, made room at their table and the two men went for drinks.

Catherine turned to Helen. "I was hoping to see you. I have to go to Reading tomorrow to collect my new curtains. How about we have a girl's day out? We could visit that new pottery exhibition and have lunch somewhere."

Feeling the dark cloud descend again, Helen thought about the train she would be catching in the morning. By then John, the children and probably half the village would know. Bringing her attention back to Catherine she replied "I am sorry but I think I have something on tomorrow, can I give you a ring first thing?"

Puzzled at Helen's tone, Catherine gave a brief "O.K."

As the summer evening light faded, the group broke up and the four friends left to walk home together. Reaching John and Helen's house they said their goodnights and separated.

Entering the house John asked "Have you really got something on tomorrow darling? You didn't seem keen on going to Reading with Catherine."

"Well it was a bit short notice."

"I'll just go and close the greenhouse." John walked quickly out to the garden. The puzzled frown was back on his face.

Helen watched him go. It's no good she thought. I must tell him now. Then mentally going over the tasks she must do for the morning, realised the suitcase she would need was in the loft, and she would have to ask John to get it for her.

Locking the back door as he came in John entered the sitting room where Helen waited, two glasses of wine on the small table between their chairs. Looking at his watch John reached for the remote control and selecting the station pondered "I wonder who has the brains to-night?"

"John" began Helen. Just at that moment the programme began "Hm?" grunted John not really waiting for Helen to continue. The chance had gone.

Half an hour later the show ended, Helen drew in her breath, but John's attention was still on the announcer detailing the names of the next day's participants. As they appeared on the screen the fourth name was "Helen Taylor from Berkshire."

John turned to Helen exclaiming "You have a namesake love, and from Berkshire." Seeing how pale she had gone, everything fell into place. "It is you," he cried. "What a surprise!"

"Please don't be cross," Helen pleaded, apprehensive but relieved.
"I thought you would think it a stupid thing to do. It was a silly spur of the moment action."

Feeling a great weight lift from his shoulders, John took her in his arms and reassured her "Don't be silly, you Dark Horse you!"