Open Writing

There were four of us in the car. I was driving and Helga was in the front with me. Jen and Derek were in the back.

Actually, Jen should have been in the front with me and Helga in the back with Derek.

Never mind. At least we were on our way.

'How long will it take?' Helga asked.

'Oh, about an hour,' i said, 'depending on the traffic.'

I was aware that Jen and Derek were talking to each other in the back but I couldn't make out what they were saying.

'Do you enjoy driving?' Helga asked.

'Well, I prefer driving to being a passenger.'

'Oh, I can't imagine you ever being a passenger, Gilbert. You're far too active . . . always out and about, doing things. Not like Derek.'

'What's that?' asked Derek from the back.

'Nothing,' Helga called over her shoulder. 'Just go on talking to Jen.'

'We were merely exchanging memories of - ' said Derek.

I didn't catch the rest.

'Look,' said Helga, 'I want to enjoy this day out.'

'Me, too,' I said. 'It should be a nice change for all of us.'

'I'm not much of a swimmer, Gilbert. . . Will you keep an eye on me?'

'With pleasure,' I said, 'especially if you're wearing your bikini.'

I must have raised my voice because Jen said, 'What's that about a bikini? You told me not to bring mine.'

'Did I?' I said, glancing sideways at Helga, whose lips were slightly parted.