Arrival at the Island (4) – Ferry Slip – Meeting Anastasia

Jim walked down the loading ramp, keeping to the right-hand side to keep clear of the traffic. There was a fresh breeze blowing across the bay from his left. He pulled his wheeled suitcase behind him and carried a rucksack containing two laptops on his back. At the top of the concrete slipway a few cars were formed a queue. On the other side was a small car park which was almost empty except for a long-wheelbase Landrover. Standing in front of it was Anastasia. She waved towards him.

The sun was setting behind the island as Jim walked across towards the Landrover. Quite suddenly the wind felt a little colder.

“Welcome to Eilean Banrigh! Did you have a reasonable journey?” she asked. “Please put your luggage in the back and then get in the front with me.”

Jim muttered something about it being a long journey, closed the back door, walked to the front and climbed up and seated himself on the passenger side. The interior was clean but Spartan. Anastasia joined him.

“Yes, it is a long way from Birmingham” she said, responding to his earlier comment. “You are probably tired.” You will sleep in the big house tonight. Tomorrow we will show you round the island, explain your duties and arrange for you to move into your cottage.”

“I didn’t expect to see you here” said Jim. “If it’s a long way from Birmingham, then it is even further from London”

Anastasia hesitated and seemed to glance upwards as if searching for a suitable response and then said “Yes, it’s a long journey, but we have become used to it. Naturally we try to limit the number of times we move to and fro.” With that, she started the engine and the rattle of the diesel inhibited further conversation.

On their journey, Anastasia pointed out a few landmarks but all Jim felt he could do was acknowledge what he was being told.

 (Part of the “Tyson” project: 3rd February 2017 – 325 words)