UNREST In Patonga

By Travis James Author

The long-awaited climactic yet shocking and humorous sequel to ESCAPE To Patonga.

Love is in the air. Everlasting for some, disastrous for others. And the continual need to be accepted never wanes for the inhabitants of the small seaside village.

The council is up to its usual tricks, planning unthinkable ho

• Language: English
• Publisher: Travis James Author
• Release date: Apr 20, 2024
• ISBN: 9780645863321

Book preview

Chapter 1

New Beginnings

CRYSTAL

Their eyes locked over the mirror-calm moonlit water. Although only two metres separated them, they could both feel each other’s bodies tensing, wanting. Just two heads circled slowly under the stars. Their eyes dared, retreated, teased.

The early evening air was warm for that time of year. The beaches and waters of the bay and creek were deserted now the sun had set. A few lights shone in distant curtained windows. No one would see them. No one would hear. They were alone to explore at will.

Crystal gently blew ripples towards him as she crept forward on her knees over the sandy creek bed. The invisible unbreakable pull of lust gently coaxed her forward. She was powerless to resist. Forbidden fruit awaited her.

I am so horny right now, she whispered, then bit her lower lip.

He moaned softly, sending a fresh wave of desire trembling through her.

I want you.

One metre apart.

She reached out, her fingertips sliding down his chest. Lower. Lower.

Half a metre.

Their gaze bound them now, fusing their minds on a single quest. They were so close. There was no turning back as her fingers lightly brushed against his bulging swimmers.

Riley suddenly sprang backwards, sending up a large splash of water that instantly shattered the moment, the mood, and the tranquillity. I can’t. I’m sorry. I can’t do this.

Crystal squeezed her eyes shut to quell the anguish. She wanted to scream, and it took all of her strength not to. But she could not hold it in for long. Her lungs were burning. She collapsed forward, lowered her face into the cool water, and yelled at the sandy creek bed. The intense sound reverberated through the water around her to send out a fresh circle of ripples, this time of despair.

Too soon. It was too soon. Even for her, especially for her, it was still too soon after Danny’s funeral. Her never-ending twin needs to love someone and to break free of the restraints of Patonga, were now compounded with the crushing weight of unbearable grief. Her thoughts were a mess. They were either a swirling pool of confusion, or they darted in all directions with irrational impulsiveness. She may have been unclear about what she wanted before, but now she was totally bewildered.

What had she been thinking? Way too soon. It was absurd to think Riley would ever want her after everything that had happened recently. And besides, she was with Nathen now, the young police officer who had come to investigate Riley all those months ago.

While Danny had slowly deteriorated, Nathen had become a very familiar face around Patonga. Not just a love interest for Crystal, he quickly befriended Danny to give him much needed male support, literally doing the heavy lifting by moving Danny from wheelchair to bed during his final weeks.

After the initial volcanic explosion of new love, Crystal and Nathen gradually settled to become an adorable couple. The whole village was relieved that she had finally found someone to fill the void that was surely about to consume all their lives. They were inseparable, and certainly touched the hearts of everyone.

And then everybody’s world broke.

Slow in coming, it was an inevitable event. Knowing Danny was on death’s door did little to prepare anyone for it. If anything, it did give them some rehearsal time, so when the final act was upon them, the outpouring of emotion was both relieving and total. Everyone united in grief to support each other.

The funeral was devastating. The whole community suffered. It was a time of both great sadness and uplifting joy. At the wake, Danny’s larrikin character punched through the tears as jokes and countless one-liners were celebrated and etched forever into the memory of a much loved and integral member of their close-knit community.

While the rest of the world was in full Christmas cheer, the play was cancelled, Group was abandoned for the festive break, and New Year’s celebrations were muted. It was a hard time for all, torn between family joy and personal reflection.

Nathen’s uniform, together with the regular presence of his patrol car, was a very welcome sight around the village. The added sense of security, especially over the holiday period, certainly proved worthwhile. The camping grounds suffered the least number of unruly incidents for many years. Even out of uniform, Nathen’s authoritative figure, although much younger than most in Patonga, became their pillar of stoic support. Without him, Crystal simply would not have survived.

Danny had left them three months ago now. It seemed her tears would never stop flowing sometimes. Even when she felt she had herself under control, a sound, a word, or an object would set her off again with debilitating sobs racking through her. Sometimes she would start crying for no reason at all, completely out of the blue. The sudden rush of emotions, completely overwhelming as they stopped her in her tracks, were both shocking and embarrassing.

She constantly asked herself how long does grief last. Months? Years? Forever? Was she still grieving now? It was hard to tell sometimes. Operating The Chippy distracted her enough most days so she could function normally. But on some days, she crashed, too distraught to even get out of bed. On those days, fortunately getting fewer and fewer, her off-siders had picked up the slack.

Bianca was one of the part-timers Crystal had employed over the September holidays, who had turned out to be better than expected. Despite having had very little experience behind a shop counter, right from the start, she had excelled beyond her years. Two months later when Danny passed, she again jumped at the chance for more work, then stayed on to work over the busy Christmas and New Year holiday period. With Crystal swinging in and out of her disabling grief, Bianca proved her worth. So at least The Chippy survived, to everyone’s relief.

And during all that time, still lurking in the background, Riley continued to pique her interest. He was both infuriatingly aloof and standoffish, and yet would suddenly appear when she least expected him, sending her heart aflutter. He had always been, and still was, a man of mystery and intrigue. And now that he was officially separated and soon to be divorced, it somehow only made him even more alluring. There was something about him. A thorn in her side, and at the same time, God’s gift. An Enigma. A puzzle she felt compelled to solve. Yet Riley barely acknowledged her presence. She simply did not exist in his world.

Their public conversations at Group and at The Chippy, or anywhere around the village for that matter, were polite and courteous, even friendly. But as soon as Crystal did or said anything remotely suggestive, Riley would shut down, reverting back to his block-of-ice state that he was so well known for. Although he was slowly opening up and joining in on conversations and debates at Group, he was still basically the same Riley everyone loved to hate.

That evening had been particularly hot, and as she neared the end of her run along the creek-side beach, the sun disappeared behind the hills. Twilight across the water was peaceful and calming. Darkness was near but the heat persisted.

Riley appeared in his swimmers just ahead of her and fell into the cool still water. Crystal froze, too scared to breathe lest he hear her. He disappeared momentarily before his head popped up again. He twisted onto his back and floated there just a few metres offshore. After a moment, without warning, he suddenly stood in the waist-deep water to stare at her.

Crystal instantly tightened, then just as quickly chided herself for getting excited to see his near naked physique. She told herself to get a grip.

Evening, he said with a slight nod, his tone typically polite and clipped.

Oh God! she thought. Now he speaks to me!

Um, hi.

I don’t know how you can run in this heat?

She blew out her breath. Madness. I know. That looks tempting though.

Silence.

Crystal inwardly grimaced. It was very tempting. The water? she questioned. Or his body? Or both?

She took a few steps along the narrow strip of sand, then stopped. Keep walking, she begged herself. Just keep walking. Nathen would be waiting for her. No, she screamed internally. She could not. She must not. Riley would only push her away as he had always done in the past.

Oh, to hell with it, she whispered. I’m wet anyway.

She quickly slipped her skimpy running top over her head, pulled off her joggers and shimmied out of her knee-high tights, before plunging into the blissfully cool water in just her underwear. Oh heaven. She paddled around slowly, relishing the temperature relief.

But then their eyes locked. They circled one way, then the other. Silent. Peaceful. Innocent. Until they suddenly, unwittingly, came face to face, slowing just enough to avoid colliding.

Time stopped. Everything stopped.

When she had reached out to touch him, Riley reacted exactly as she had expected, but for one tiny second, there was hope that he would engage. But no. He ran. It was so typical of him.

Riley strode towards the shoreline, kicking up water with each giant stride. He bent over to pick up his towel and began wiping himself dry, then turned back to look at her.

You’re supposed to be with Nathen, for crying out loud, he said angrily. I can’t do that to him. He’s a good mate. I’m sorry.

He wrapped the towel around him and stomped off towards his house.

Crystal slowly fell forward to lay flat on the water staring at the sandy bottom. When the burning in her lungs was too great to endure, she sprang back up and gasped for air. Why did she keep doing this to herself, she thought? Forget him. Please!

Slowly she stepped out of the water, her mood so low now she felt as if she was wading through mud. As she was about to bend to scoop up her clothes, a shadow emerged from the bushes.

Crystal screamed. Oh! Shit! You scared the life out me.

Sorry, Brian said, looking a little sheepish. I was walking the perimeter as I usually do, and I heard voices. I often find randy teenagers rutting in the bushes at this hour.

Okay? Um…

I shoo them away. We don’t want that sort of thing going on around here. So close to the campground, I mean, with young kiddies all about. We don’t need another scandal.

No. No, of course not.

Was that Riley I saw a moment ago?

The thought of Brian squatting in the bushes watching on horrified her. Um…Yeah… She sighed. Another incident for the village gossip hounds to giggle about. It seemed she would never stop humiliating herself.

You two weren’t…

What…Oh, no! No, not with Riley. No. We were just cooling off. It’s so hot tonight.

Yes. Yes, it is. Sorry, I’ll let you get dressed.

Crystal let out a soft yelp when she realised that she was standing there in full view with soaking wet undies, albeit in the low glow of moonlight. She span around, despite not really have anything to be embarrassed about. Her sturdy black sports bra was hardly see-through after all. Fortunately, Brian disappeared as quickly as he had materialised. She quickly dressed and walked off, once again chiding herself for her stupidity. It seemed she would never learn.

Are you okay? Nathen asked when she arrived home, his brow furrowed.

Yeah, why?

You’re all wet.

It’s so hot. I went for a dip in the creek.

Oh. Fair enough.

And in that moment, Crystal realised the full ramifications of her infidelity. Brian had seen her swimming with Riley. In her undies no less. Brian was not known for keeping secrets. The first Group for the year was in a few days, so gossip was bound to be plentiful. She would have to think fast of how she could wriggle out of that mess. But nothing happened, she thought confidently. It had all been very innocent. She sighed. Not.

She had to forget about Riley. But despite her valiant efforts, he continued to send her heart and mind racing every time they met or when she spied him from a distance. She was committed to Nathen. Having been together for five months now, and with the funeral and the madness of Christmas out of the way, they had settled into a comfortable routine lately. She was even talking about the possibility of her moving in with him. He had an apartment in nearby Umina Beach just a twenty-minute drive away, which would certainly help to distance herself from the community that now held so many haunting memories.

The Chippy was not so busy now the holidays were over, so she had time to think clearly once more, and her thoughts soon solidified her feeling towards Nathen, and of moving. It was not such a hard decision to make now after that little incident.

———— < > ————

LEONARD

Leonard sat heavily on the bench outside The Chippy. The quieter mornings were a blessing now that the holiday season was well and truly over. And if he were to be completely honest with himself, despite the fat till, he was starting to dislike the busy periods. The days were too long, and they seemed to be getting longer each year.

He had moved to Patonga to relax and unwind, not to get busier. Yet as the years passed, everything around him appeared to get faster and faster, while he got slower and slower. However, he liked his little store, especially the social side of it. He did not think he was ready to give it up just yet though. Maybe in a few more years.

At the sound of rapid footsteps, Leonard turned to see an old friend approaching. Stan? he said, looking surprised.

Well, who else would I be?

You look like Stan, but you move like a man thirty years your junior.

Stan sat next to him with a huge grin on his face. I feel thirty years younger too with this new hip. Mavis better watch herself.

Leonard laughed out loud. Ha! Half her luck too.

Oh, well. She deserves better than this old geezer. How are you?

Yeah, okay. It’s nice to have some time to relax now that the mad season is over with.

You need an off-sider, Stan said in a serious tone.

Staff! Good Lord, no. That’s the last thing I need. Been there, done that.

Maybe a wife then?

Leonard froze. A wife? It had been nearly ten years since he had lost Grace. In all that time he had never once thought about starting a new relationship. It simply had never occurred to him. And no one, until now, had even suggested it either. For a few seconds he held his breath in shock.

When he looked at Stan, they both burst into a fit laughter at the absurdity of the idea.

A wife! Been there, done that, Stan managed to say between breaths. Oh, Jeez. I crack myself up sometimes.

You’ve missed your calling, Stan. You should do a stand-up comedy show for Group.

That set them off once more.

Mavis suddenly appeared in the doorway of The Chippy. Will you two be quiet, she said sternly, her face set in a scowl as she waved a greasy spatula at them. We have customers in here. She retreated back inside as quickly as she had appeared.

Wife material there, Stan said with a cheeky grin. She’s all yours.

This time they fell against each other as tears streamed down their cheeks, doing their best to stifle their laughter. It was good to feel like a naughty schoolboy again. Leonard coughed a few times as he brought himself under control.

You know what? It’s been a while since I felt this good, he said.

Hold that thought, Stan warned. With Group starting again tonight, that feeling will no doubt be short-lived.

Ha! Yeah, we’ll see, I guess. I’m actually looking forward to it though.

Getting the old gang back together?

Leonard smiled. Yeah. Now that the holidaymakers have all left and it’s mostly just us oldies again.

I don’t know how you put up with all those snooty-nosed city folk.

Oh, they’re not too bad. I’ve learnt what to expect from them and act accordingly. I look at each interaction like a scene in a really bad play, and my character is a complete tosser. Honest to God, they usually think I’m one of them. If I manage to stop myself from laughing at them, that is.

Ha. A tough gig, Stan said with a knowing grin.

But it does get busy, and it’s a long day sometimes. It’s not too bad, I suppose. Still, it’s nice to have a break.

You should get some help, Stan said with concern in his voice now. Even if it’s a schoolkid who’s looking to make a bit of pocket money over the holidays.

Maybe. Don’t know. But you’ve got me thinking now.

It only has to be a few hours a day. I used to do that when I had the panel-beating shop. Young guys would come in and help by handing me tools. They just loved being around cars. It gives them some life experience. It’s good for the community too.

Yeah. Okay, I’ll give it some more thought, Stan. Thanks.

After a short pause, Stan asked, how’s Crystal handling things?

Even after all those months, it touched Leonard how much everyone still cared to ask. They genuinely cared. It proved just how connected the community was. He let out a long sigh.

Fine. She’s doing alright. Nathen has been a great help. She’s considering moving to Umina to live with him.

Big move. No, she deserves it. It will do her good to get away from Patonga.

Yeah, I’ve been thinking of buying her a restaurant somewhere.

Oh. God help The Chippy if she does leave.

They chuckled.

Oh well, Stan said as he slowly stood on shaky legs. I’d better get back to Janice. She worries too much if I’m gone too long.

You’re very lucky to have her.

Stan grinned and tilted his head towards The Chippy. I reckon you and Mavis would make a lovely couple.

Leonard waved him away playfully. Get out of here.

He watched Stan walk off, amazed at his transformation, and only hoped that he would not have to go through another hip operation himself too so soon. One was enough. Still, Stan was a wonder of modern medicine.

The afternoon flashed past in a blink with his thoughts dominated by the reforming of Group that night after the summer break. Some couples had escaped to other parts of the country, indeed other countries over the summer holidays, simply to avoid the younger crowds. It would be exciting to see them again and to catch up on their latest adventures. The first Group for the year had always been nothing more than a reunion to reconnect and map out what the year will bring.

As predicted, everyone was in a cheerful mood, chatting and joking about their holiday exploits. It was a full house and there was a buzz of expectation in the air. And a few new faces too which was always a good sign that the gathering was thriving and a greatly needed part of their community.

Order! Order! Leonard bellowed, a playful tone in his voice.

A cheer went up as they all took their seats.

Okay, it’s great to be all together once again and I’m sure there is a lot of gossip to catch up on, but let’s try and hold that over until after proceedings.

A few soft moans were voiced and then someone giggled.

Okay, firstly I’d just like to thank everyone for your support for myself and to Crystal over the last few difficult months. We really appreciate your community spirit.

Hear, hear.

Rest in peace, Danny.

We miss him already.

Love you, Crystal.

You’re welcome.

No trouble at all.

You would have done the same.

Okay, thank you. Everyone, Leonard said, and he cleared his throat. It was a shame to have to give up on the play, but I think you will all agree, out of respect for the grieving, it was for the best.

We’ll smash it this year then, someone said.

Are we going to do the same one?

Oh, I hope so.

I love Much Ado About Nothing. Very funny.

Just what we need.

Well, if you all agree? Leonard asked. We’ll carry on with Much Ado.

Another cheer went up.

Done! Okay next item.

But before he had a chance to review his notes, Jill shot up out of her front row seat to face the group. A soft groan filtered through the gathering. Trying his best to hide his own frustration at her imposition, although he had expected it, knowing Jill so well, Leonard reluctantly spread his hands to indicate that she had the floor.

I would just like to thank everyone for your solidarity in the need to protect our little memorial to our fallen heroes. The council are no longer interested in relocating it. She paused, obviously waiting for a cheer, but only received a soft grumble from the crowd. Pursing her lips, she staggered on. However, I do have some very exciting news from Councillor Adams. Another empty pause. Well, he says he has acquired some extra funding for small community projects and has asked me to put forward a few ideas.

This time there was a bit more enthusiasm from the patrons.

Councillor Adams suggests things like playground sets, barbeques, and shelters, or even outdoor gym sets.

How about a toilet block? a newcomer suggested. At the end of Jacaranda Avenue near the creek beach.

That’s the last thing we need.

Toilets attract druggies.

And perverts.

Jeez, Patonga’s not that big. You’re never more than five minutes’ walk from your house anyway.

Yeah, ya lazy buggers.

Okay, alright, Leonard droned in an effort to keep order. Maybe not such a good idea. I do like the idea of some new barbeque shelters though.

What! Mavis squeaked. And put The Chippy out of business? We don’t want to encourage more people to cook their own food.

Oh, fair crack, Mavis. I’ve tasted your fish.

Crystal stood up then to face the group. Hey! Don’t you dare knock The Chippy, she said with a laugh.

Snickers rippled through the crowd.

I think the gym equipment would be beneficial to the community, Jill continued. It would encourage good health and show that we care.

Well said, Leonard boomed. The project should reflect the community’s needs, not just individual wants.

I agree, Jill said, giving him a nod of approval. I will put it to the councillor for further review.

Thank you, Jill. If anyone has any further ideas, then they should contact you directly.

Yes, please. Councillor Adams will be visiting next week for community consultations, I believe.

Nice to know that the council is looking after us for a change.

The council has extra money? Brian questioned as he stood quickly. Sounds suspicious to me.

Oh really, Leonard said as half the crowd moaned.

Oh no. Not another conspiracy.

Get back in your box, Brian.

It’s true, Brian said, raising a finger to make a point. Councils don’t do anything for free. They always want something in exchange.

The room exploded in the usual cross debates.

Order. Order, Leonard shouted. Okay, I think that’s enough on that subject tonight. He waited for them to settle again. Right, next. Is there any other new business?

Brian slowly raised himself out of his chair, a little more cautiously this time, followed by another chorus of groans.

I’d like to raise the question of what can be done to stop people rutting in the bushes behind the campgrounds and the creek reserve.

That set off another wave of snickers and raucous laughter from the back row.

"We should ask the council to put up signs that say, No Bonking."

"How about heat sensors wired to speakers. Hey you. Get a room."

We’re not in Downton Abbey now. We all do it.

This is a real issue! Brian said angrily, raising his voice above the murmurs. There are families and kids all along that strip after dark. But it’s the older teens that are a real menace. We’ve all seen them. It’s high time we did something about it.

Yes, okay people, Leonard said as he raised his arms to wave the crowd to hush. Settle down.

I saw a couple skinny dipping just the other night, Brian said, his eyes inadvertently dropping to look at Crystal. He appeared a little flustered for a moment. Oh, sorry dear. I didn’t mean to embarrass you like that.

It wasn’t me, Crystal shrieked. We had our undies on.

The