by Kay Lobegeiger

Created on: August 07, 2008

"Why had they come?" she thought, as the rain pelted down, sounding like golf balls on the old tin roof. This usually happy young woman looked despressed, standing at the window, staring at the grey emptiness of the rain soaked landscape. There was nothing for them here. Alan was a dreamer, an adventurer, and very vulnerable to stories of finding a fortune. This time it was the opal fields. He had heard stories of gems laying around for the taking and, even though he knew this was a slight exaggeration, Alan was a gambling man, prepared to take a few risks. After enticing his new bride with the promise of beautiful clothes and a lovely home when they returned, he again left the city to try his luck.

Chris sighed as she remembered the whirlwind romance after a chance meeting at the bus stop, reminding her of her favourite song. She had lost her umbrella in a freak storm, and Alan had offered her shelter under his big black umbrella, as they discussed the sudden change in the weather. Chris did not believe in love at first sight, but there must be something in it, or she would not be standing in a tin shed, in the middle of nowhere, staring at a wet, depressing countryside. The facilities also left a lot to be desired. However, she would try to make the best of things, for Alan's sake.

The door burst open behind her, then slammed shut with a great rattle, which shook the whole building. Alan stood on the concrete floor, water dripping from his wide brimmed hat, and his army greatcoat glistening in the light thrown out by an old lantern on the table.

"It's raining buckets out there". Alan sounded out of breath, as he had run the last few yards to the shed, getting stuck in the mud with every step. Chris helped him out of his wet clothes and filled the kettle to make him a hot drink.

"I had to cover the mine in a hurry. Not much luck today, though. Just a few small chips in the shale". Alan breathed a bit easier, as he sat in the old armchair they had managed to find in a second hand shop on the way out to the mines. "I'll try again when the weather breaks", he added, sipping his tea.

Alan was a trier, she would give him that. He would never admit defeat while there was still the slightest chance of finding the fortune he had dreamed about for years. He was still hopeful of the 'big find', especially while the rumor of the Black Opal being found in the area was gaining strength among the miners. No-one knew exactly where it had been found, but rumors have a way of creating

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