Close Relations

Georgia found herself studying his profile. It was exactly as she remembered it. Where he was concerned she appeared to possess a photographic memory. After all he’d done.

‘It’s amazing the things-normal everyday things-you remember when you’re away from home.’ He gave a wry laugh. ‘Do you know what I remembered most?’

Unable to speak, Georgia shook her head, while inside she cried out, No, she didn’t know what he remembered most, but she knew what he forgot.

‘The sound of the storm-bird. Every time the sky grew overcast and it turned cool, I’d be reminded of the storm-bird. When I was a kid I used to think its cry was the saddest sound I ever heard.’

So the forlorn bird’s cry, supposedly heralding the coming storm, was his fondest memory? Georgia’s lips twisted embitteredly. But then why should he remember a passionate, obviously physical affair with a gauche, gullible young woman who’d idolised him?

‘Thanks for going to see Peter last night,’ he said, when Georgia made no attempt to continue the conversation.

She shrugged and sat down again. ‘He was surprisingly well. Aunt Isabel said he’d had a comfortable day. I don’t suppose there’s any chance he’ll…’ Georgia left the question hanging and Jarrod shook his head.

‘The doctor says it’s only a matter of time. He’s had twentyfive years they said he wouldn’t have after his bad accident over in Western Australia so he considers he’s been lucky.’

‘I’m sorry, Jarrod,’ Georgia said, wishing the words didn’t sound so banal.

‘These things happen.’

They both looked up as the sound of a car broke into their mutual preoccupation. And the silence continued as footsteps rattled up the stairs.

‘Jarrod! Hi! Been here long?’ Lockie asked brightly. He shot a quick, assessing glance from Jarrod standing with his back to the window to Georgia sitting stiffly on the edge of her chair.

‘Not long.’ Jarrod shoved his hands in his pockets. ‘I guess you’ve been practising. How’s the band going?’

‘Just great.’ Lockie’s eyes lit up. ‘Did Georgia tell you I’ve pulled off a fantastic booking? At the Country Music Club. It used to be Rusty’s. Remember it?’

Jarrod nodded.

‘It could be a major stepping-stone to-well, to anything. The sky’s the limit.’ Lockie rubbed his hands together. ‘If we make a good impression at the Country Music Club we could hit the big time. What do you say, Georgia?’

‘Nashville here we come,’ Georgia remarked drily, and Lockie pulled a face at her.

‘Very funny, Georgia. You aren’t giving this the right amount of reverence. But don’t worry-I won’t bear a grudge.’

‘And, let me guess, you’ll never forget the little people?’ Jarrod smiled at him, reviving old memories. ‘When’s the big event?’

‘Friday night.’ Lockie beamed at him and sat on the arm of a chair. ‘How about coming along and lending a bit of moral support?’

‘Sure.’

‘Great! It will be good to know at least one person will be clapping, won’t it, Georgia?’

‘One?’ Jarrod’s smile still lingered on his mouth and Georgia swallowed. ‘Three, counting Georgia and Morgan, don’t you mean? I suppose the whole family will be there.’

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