The Last of It

Spending time with Renee was certainly the high point of the trip. She was our tour guide through town, mentioning memories she had made here and there. Eventually she directed us to a park on the edge of town.

We were transformed into kids again, playing on the swings, walking on jungle gym, trying our hand at the monkey bars. Anything to lighten the mood for Renee – who undoubtedly had heavy thoughts clouding her mind.

Although it was beginning to get dark, we strolled through the grassy trails, finally able to talk without Mother’s nagging presence. It was clear Renee was resigned to her fate, but hopeful that within a short amount of time she would be able to work, save up some money and return. Glad that she hadn’t fully given into despair, I smiled outwardly. But inwardly I worried about how unrealistic her expectations were.

As the bugs snacked on us, we decided to head to a local retailer still open for the evening. Browsing the stacks and making jokes, we knew the night was winding down, but were reluctant to leave. Mother called twice, stating she was concerned and wanted to know exactly where we were and what we were doing. She has always thought being in our presence was some reason for alarm, and that we were going to kidnap Renee. (No, Mother, I’m not stupid enough to get in trouble with the law on your account).

After the second call, we decided to call it a night and return her to the motel. We said our sad good-byes, but it was a little better knowing she would be with her father over the summer and we’d see her again soon.

Trying to get a leg up on the trip back, we headed towards home. Plans to stop at a hotel were scrapped as Lawrence drove us home through the night and into the next day.

I love to travel, but it was a sigh of relief to come back home and to “normal”.