“We could go the day after tomorrow, once Sean and Kate have left,” Natalie said. “And, Laura, I’d like you to come too.”

“To look at gardens?” Laura groaned.

“I thought you might be able to give Veronica some advice. Her hair’s starting to fall out and it’s upset her more than anything else.”

Laura tapped her lips. “I styled a few ladies while they were having cancer treatment when I was still at the salon and Paul’s got me lined up to do a home visit for another lady.”

“I’m sure Veronica would be pleased to have you visit her.”

Bree strode in at that point. “Well, it’s all right for some. Dad and I have been working.”

Natalie smiled at her middle daughter. Bree was working like a trojan doing as much as she could before she left for Marla on Friday. “Would you like a coffee, Bree? And some of Laura’s chocolate cake.”

Bree’s stance softened. “Thanks. I was hoping someone could come out with me and help shift some sheep.”

“I will,” Laura said.

“No.” Natalie got up to make the coffee. “You’re preparing dinner. I’ll go. I have to get my hand in again for when Bree’s in Marla.”

“And I am still capable of driving a ute and opening a gate,” Olive said. “We can all pitch in while you’re away, Bree.”

Natalie put Bree’s coffee on the table.

“How’s the fundraiser coming along, Laura?” Bree asked. “Dad and I were trying to work out what would be best for a donation.”

“What fundraiser?” Natalie asked.

“It’s a community thing going towards breast cancer,” Bree said.

“Paul says it might not happen.” Laura looked glum.

“Why ever not?” Olive asked.

“A few people have dropped out and I think it needs someone to take charge. Paul hasn’t got the time and he doesn’t know so many people.”

Natalie smiled. “Has anyone asked Nancy?”

Thirty-Seven

Thirty-Seven

Crowds streamed through the oval gates as soon as they were opened. People were rugged up with coats and boots against the cold July day but, after watching the weather report anxiously all week, the sky was almost clear of clouds making for a perfect winter’s day. The district had rallied once Nancy had taken the helm and the oval was well covered with stalls and activities of all descriptions, and they were confident the fundraiser would go well.

From their position behind their cake stall, set up at a vantage point near the entrance, Natalie and Olive took in the festive sight before them. They smiled then winced as Nancy’s voice blared from the loudspeaker.