8 Camden Camping Tradition
The conference room was empty when Regina sat in a red-wheeled chair facing the window. Her back to the door, she pulled out her curriculum folder and a copy of Mr. Gold's e-mail.
Going over it again, she'd ensured she followed all the instructions he'd laid out. There were forms to submit, budgets, approvals, administrative signatures, and material aids.
On the table, she had set down her curriculum box. Inside held guidebooks, CDs, Lesson Plans, flash cards, and other supplies. The night before, she'd filed a few of her old assignments for reference.
Crossing her legs, she sat back and linked her fingers and waited. The room was bare-walled. A simple conference room table with eight chairs filled the space.
The view outside the window held more attention than the inside. Closing her eyes, she hoped for good news.
"Good morning," came from behind. Robin.
"Morning," she replied.
Robin took the seat to her right and she instantly tensed. This was the first time they'd spoken since he'd kissed her. It was a bit awkward.
To her relief and delight, before any words could be exchanged, Mr. Gold entered the room.
As professionalism dictated, she stood and shook his hand thanking him for meeting with her.
When they settled, Mr. Gold spoke, "Ms. Mills, I have to tell you I was enthralled by your proposal. I've yet to see a more comprehensive curriculum that includes literacy in our district.
"I'm looking forward to hearing more about Step on Up. The movement and music components don't seem to detract the progress of education. I'm thrilled to implement it here at Camden."
Regina blinked, "Really? I mean, I'm very proud of it and I brought you this." Holding out a document, she watched his eyes scan the paper.
"It's the statistics in educational improvement after using the curriculum in a six-month trial period. It shows that literacy rates increased by 42%. The behavior problems for all children decreased by 28%."
Mr. Gold nodded, "I see. Very impressive, congratulations. Mr. Locksley, I'm so glad you convinced me to look at the proposal. It's remarkable, really."
"I've done nothing, Sir. I have to extend all the credit to Ms. Mills, she's the curator and the brains behind it. I only made small suggestions based on our Camden children's abilities."
Regina shook her head, "I disagree. I found your notes to be both critical and enlightening. It was a team effort. If you'd like, Mr. Gold, this box holds the curriculum materials."
Lifting the lid, he pulled out the guidebook and started to turn the pages.
Regina gestured with her finger, "Each page shows the curriculum for the subject. It will refer you to the right flash card. It also has a list of materials you'll need and the corresponding lesson plan. The CDs and assignment sheets are all categorized based on subject."
There were more discussion and questions about the materials and words of encouragement.
It was a success, Regina felt accomplished and started to feel like coming to Camden had been a great benefit to her and Henry.
Now, all she had to do was squash any potential awkwardness with Robin and she'd feel better.
When Mr. Gold left them, Robin pulled her into his arms, "You did it!"
After a brief hug, she smiled, "We did. Thank you for your help. I wouldn't have approached him if I hadn't had your encouragement and support."
"Ah, well. So, what do you say I take you and Henry to Lucas' Diner for a celebratory drink?"
Pausing, she gathered her thoughts.
"Listen. I'm new to Camden and I wouldn't want to do anything to lose face. I feel like that kiss put this wedge between us. I don't want to work with you and feel awkward about it."
"I don't know why it has to be awkward. I apologized for blindsiding you, but I don't regret it. You're an attractive woman, Regina."
"That's flattering, but you're married," she said.
"I know. Separated, if you want to get technical. Marian and I aren't together anymore."
"By technicality, as you said. I'd hate for people in this town to label me as a home wrecker. I like you, Robin. You're incredibly sweet and your professional opinion matters to me."
Cupping her cheek, he leaned in and kissed her forehead, "I understand. I'm sorry."
Stepping back, she nodded, "Thank you. Henry is expecting me. I'll see you next week. I'm taking my first Friday off."
Gathering her things, she picked up the box and headed towards the door.
"Wait, I'm not okay with it," he said.
Turning, she frowned, "What aren't you okay with?"
Taking the box, he took her into his arms and covered his mouth with hers. For a moment, she leaned in but quickly stumbled back.
Shoving back, she said, "I thought a mature conversation would deter you. I'm not available, Robin."
"Oh, I didn't realize," he said.
"You failed to ask, and I refuse to be your rebound. I hope the next time we see each other, you can control yourself. You're giving me whiplash."
"What?"
"First, you're sweet and charming, then you push yourself on me. I don't know which I'll get. I'm not ready for this. I came to Camden to…"
Almost disclosing her need to run from Simon was not a good idea.
"I wanted a fresh start. This isn't the start I had in mind. Please, respect that."
Sliding his hands in his pockets, he sighed, "You're right. I'm sorry."
When she walked to her car, Henry was waiting on the hood with his phone pulled to his ear.
"Okay, thanks," he said.
"Who was that?"
Henry's guilty eyes searched hers, "I answered it without thinking. I'm sorry, mom."
"Who?"
"Tyler. Simon's in Virginia looking for us. I don't think he knows where we are, but there's a chance that he's onto Harry."
Panic wanted to claw its way out. Instead, she swallowed it. "We'll take extra precautions. For the next week, I want you home."
Henry groaned, "You said I could…"
"No, we can't risk it. You'll have to give up your weekend plans. I'll make it up to you. I promise."
On the way home, she started organizing in her head. It would take them less than an hour to pack and be free to move onto the next town. It would give them two hours to board a flight.
Harry already set her up with a few extra identities, she'd have to look up a Salon in New Mexico to change their appearance. They'd have enough money to start over.
This time, she felt sad. Camden was starting to feel like a place they could finally settle.
Simon was too close, and she wasn't sure if he'd learn anything devastating enough to ruin what they could build.
Robin organized the committees for the Camden annual camping trip. Standing under the canopy, he held a clipboard.
"John, help direct people to the camp setups. Work with Leroy on distributing wood and rocks for fires."
"Got it," he said as he walked off into the sea of people.
"Wil? Wil Scarlet!" Looking around, he tried to spot him, but there were too many people swarming in groups.
"Right here, Robin," came from behind him.
"I need you to help Mary Margaret and David with the food and drinks table. They'll need help bringing in tables from the truck and the coolers."
Wil saluted him, "On it," he grinned.
Roland came stumbling up, "What can I do Daddy?" His eyes were wide and inquisitive.
"Hmm, I have the perfect job for you, my boy. Take these." Robin held out a bucket of red tickets.
"Make sure everyone gets one ticket. You can tell them it's to win prizes."
"Okay. Can I get one too?"
Taking one from the bucket, he placed it in Roland's shirt pocket. "There. Safe and sound. Now, get busy."
Everyone moved about setting up tents, getting food and prizes set up.
Tents were sporadically set up in greens and blues with one bright pink in the center. Sleeping bags and packs were scattered and people dressed in warm coats and boots hurrying about.
The smell of fire coals and coffee permeated the air. A soothing and bitter smell.
Their campsite was shielded in heughs of green with sun rays sprinkling through branches. It was almost magical to see the colors change from gold to green.
The annual Camden camping night has been set up for the past twelve years. Every year, the people of the community come together to sleep under the stars.
They eat food brought forth by Widow Lucas and in potluck fashion. The Thompson sisters bring their famous crab dip. Peter Lemon supplies his family BBQ ribs without parting with the recipe.
Geoff and Jerry, the brothers of the local police department, supply their grandmother's German potato salad. A favorite in Camden circles.
Mary Margaret and David bring the chips and cheese dip they were famous for in town. Secrets in the sauce, so they say.
Belle and Ashley always supply the cutlery and plates and bottles of red and white wine. Popular with the younger crowds, Ruby gravitates towards the alcohol.
Each year the dinner gets bigger and bigger. The traditional dishes are mingled with new recipes. Games are played. Conversation is had.
In Camden tradition, there is always a raffle for items donated by the local toy store and the Starling Salon. Gift cards, toys, and hardware items are awarded.
The biggest gift of all is the largest suite in the Lucas Bed and Breakfast for a week. Included in the package are room service, breakfast in bed, and free rein of the Diner menu.
In the morning a special someone is named Camden Camper. A trophy is awarded to the most spirited community member of the night.
It's all about helping each other out and enjoying themselves. The only rule is that no one can win the award two years running. This makes it fair and it keeps the community guessing.
Robin moved forth and walked through the campgrounds. Rocks and wood colored lights lined the pathway to each campsite. There were seven large areas that fit tents.
As he moved from camp to camp, he welcomed people, he kept an eye out for those in need, and he tried to pretend he wasn't looking for Regina.
A month. It had been one month since he'd kissed her, and his mind couldn't stop reeling.
At first, he thought it was just a reaction to Marian's declaration of separation. Robin was furious to find she'd started to have feelings for another master's student.
It also couldn't have been farthest from his imagination. They'd been growing apart for a long time. He'd argued with her more than he'd talked.
Regina just happened to be there when he felt angry and he gave into a simple primal attraction.
Only, he started to regret it. As per her request, he'd given her space and avoided her whenever possible.
They worked together loading kids on the busses, they ate lunch in companionable silence in the lounge, and they started implementing the curriculum.
They never discussed the awkward conversation they shared, and he tried not to make her uncomfortable. In doing so, he seemed to have created this platonically dull relationship.
In turn, there were no personal conversations. There were no anecdotal stories, and she failed to keep her promise to Roland. Roland never stopped asking to see the white manor.
For the last two weeks, Roland had constantly asked about visiting the rose garden at the manor.
To compensate, he'd asked Widow Lucas to show him her garden. Roland was able to plant flowers and admire the roses growing in delicate blooms.
Robin had tried hard to avoid bringing up Regina's name around his son. It only fueled his desire to visit as promised. Luckily, in the last few days, he hadn't heard much about the manor or the roses. He hoped his son had finally given up his quest.
Robin moved to another camp and spotted Henry and his friends laughing and jabbing fake swords at each other. They moved in circular motion yelling things like, "I'll kill you, you pirate!"
Smiling, he remembered when he'd done the same thing as a child.
Henry turned suddenly when Robin stepped out from the tree branches and lunged at him.
"Hey!" Robin sidestepped in just in time to avoid being jabbed with the stick.
"Sorry," Henry stumbled. His face was flushed, and he looked genuinely scared. "You scared me."
Robin knelt to go lower to his level, "It's just me. Hey, it's okay."
The boy was shaking slightly, his eyes darted through the trees on each side of him. His legs were braced to run at any moment.
When Robin reached up to touch his arm in a comforting manner, he flinched. Frowning, Robin gazed at the boy. He didn't like his reaction one bit.
"Henry?"
Robin turned his head to see Regina approaching with a dark green pack in her hands. Her boots were the color of coal, her jeans dark washed blue and a cobalt blue coat covering what appeared to be a red blouse underneath.
He couldn't help but stare at the woman with her dark hair and red lips. A picture, she made. It hurt his heart to see her son ready to bolt.
Robin held up his hands in front of the boy, "I seemed to have startled him."
Regina dropped the pack near the turned over tree stump and took Henry into her arms.
Robin returned to his feet to watch their embrace. "Hey," she whispered.
The boy's eyes were wide and round, "I thought…it looked like…the jacket…I heard…it was like…"
"Shh, come here." Regina rested her cheek on his head and rubbed his back in small circles.
"I apologize, I saw the kids playing swords and I wanted to make sure everyone had what they needed. I didn't mean to scare him."
Regina lifted her head and gave a small smile, "No need to apologize. He's okay."
Skeptically, Robin looked at the boy was seemed calmer in his mother's arms. The residual shock remained as he lifted his face. His eyes were still darting to the trees, but his body remained relaxed.
"Regina…"
"We could use some sleeping bags if you don't mind," she interrupted.
"I'll make sure you get them. Can I have a word with you?" Robin gestured toward the path behind him.
She looked down, "You okay, now?" Henry nodded his head and took a deep breath. "I'll be right back. Stay here and play with Carl and Penny, okay."
Henry turned to the kids who were now shooting marbles in a small section of the dirt.
Regina turned to glance as Henry sat with his friends and walked towards Robin who seemed impatient to talk to her.
"Is everything alright?" he asked.
"Henry is just having a bit of a hard time, he'll be alright."
"Regina, don't lie to me. You've been ducking me for weeks. I've tried to make up for kissing you. I've respected you, haven't I?"
"Yes, but—"
"Then, why don't you cut the crap and tell me what is going on. You and Henry have been tensing the last few weeks and you've both been ready to run when someone surprises you. What's going on?"
"I don't think that's any of your business, and frankly—"
"I'm trying to be a friend here. I care about you and what I just saw is freaking me out. No kid should look that scared of someone walking towards him. I didn't want to ask you before, but now I feel I have to. Are you in some kind of trouble?"
Regina bit her lip and her eyes darted behind him. "You could say that," she admitted.
"I'd like to help if to never see that look on Henry's face ever again."
"Robin, you don't have to worry about us. We'll be fine. It's just a bit tense. He'll be fine, I promise."
She was deflecting, again. It was her usual way of shoving him off and retreating into her own bubble.
"We're friends, right?" he asked.
"Sure, we are," she tried to smile.
"As your friend, I'm calling bullshit. If you won't talk to me, you should talk to Mary Margaret. I know she's been there for you lately."
"You can't talk to me like that, Robin. What is going on in my personal life is none of your business. I appreciate the concern and it touches me that you care about Henry. We'll be fine."
Glancing behind her, she saw Henry scanning the trees ready to run if someone jumped out. Clenching her jaw, she did her own quick scan and continued to look through the trees as she returned to face Robin.
Robin turned his head to see what had her attention but saw only trees and empty space.
Robin opened his mouth to contradict her and continue this fight when Roland came running down the path, "Daddy!"
He turned and grabbed the running boy into his arms. "What is it, my boy?"
"I gave all the tickets away. Uncle John says you have to find more." The boy turned his head and smiled, "Regina, hi."
She smiled, "Hi, baby."
Roland reached out and she was forced to take him into her arms. "How come you haven't come to see me? I been waiting to see the roses."
Glancing up, Robin shrugged, "I told you, she's been busy."
Regina said, "I made a promise, huh? I'm sorry, baby. I've been busy with work. If it's okay with your dad, why don't you come to spend the weekend with us? Would you like that?"
Roland turned, "Can I? I want to play with Henry and see his dinosaurs and the roses in the garden like mama said."
Robin looked to Regina, "I don't know…"
Regina put Roland down, "Hey, why don't you go play with Henry while I talk to your dad."
"Okay, don't forget the tickets," he said before running off.
"You didn't have to do that," he said. "I know you'd rather avoid us altogether."
"Robin," she admonished.
"Forget I said anything. Your life is your business. I was just trying to help. I'll explain to Roland that you're busy."
"No, I meant what I said. I'd love to have him over for the weekend. If it's okay with you. I'd rather not go back on my promise."
Robin looked behind her to see Roland trying to shoot the marbles like the other kids. His tongue was sticking out of his mouth and he looked concentrated on his task.
"Just me then," he mumbled.
"What?"
"Nothing, he deserves to have fun with the kids. I'll call you and we can work it out. I have to get back and help the others. I'll make sure someone brings the sleeping bags."
Turning to leave, he heard her say, "I'm sorry, Robin."
He shrugged as he turned, "What are you sorry for?"
"I…"
Shaking his head, he stuck up his hand, "You know what, don't. Let's just forget it. Have a good evening."
He saw her frown before he turned and walked back up the path licking his wounds. For Christ sake, he never thought a kiss would ruin the friendship they had.
Now, he had to force himself to be civil, so his son could spend the night in the lion's den. Rolling his eyes, he cursed himself.
None of this would've happened if Marian hadn't left. He'd never have set eyes on Regina Mills. He wouldn't be this attracted to a woman he couldn't have.
Instead, he cursed her silently and tried to ignore the fact that her son was scared half to death. It bothered him to know that they were in trouble and were too scared to seek help.
Roland returned to his camp later and he sat with him that evening and heard him tell stories of what he'd do that weekend.
He tried to block out his annoyance and worries and focused on the boy in his lap. The most important person in the world was his son.