"You know, Russ, I think I finally understand what people mean when they talk about being at one with nature." As she spoke, two deer walked out of the tree-line to the lake shore and began drinking at the water's edge. "Look! Aren't they beautiful?"
"They come here often later in the day. If you like taking photographs, this is the place to do it."
"Does that mean I'm invited back here again?"
"Any time. You are a very restful companion - even if you do beat me at fishing."
Sitting quietly, they watched the deer. Neither was uncomfortable with the silence, contented to soak up the beauty around them. They sipped their wine and gazed out at the lake, where a trout jumped for a fly now and then, leaving behind a circle of ripples that slowly disappeared. Dragonflies soared around them, catching mosquitoes and other small insects, sometimes landing on an arm or thigh, to sit for a moment and then move on. Melanie had never been that close to a live dragonfly before and she was intrigued with the beautiful patterns and colors on their wings and bodies.
Sometime later, Russ stirred and went to check on the potatoes. Deciding that they were done, he prepared the pan for the fish with a small amount of oil, placed them in the pan and turned the heat down to medium. He went into the trailer and came back out with dishes, cutlery, napkins and a plastic tablecloth for the picnic table. Handing them to her, he went back inside and returned with a large bowl of salad and two bottles of dressing. She had set the table and refilled their wine glasses.
"So the man can cook!"
"What you see here today is the extent of my expertise, with the exception of burgers and dogs. I try to limit my intake of red meat, but there's nothing like a juicy sirloin burger now and then."
Watching as he turned the filets and seasoned them lightly with some Cajun spice, she suddenly realized that she was quite hungry. She also realized that she hadn't felt this happy in months - not since her breakup. Russ was easy to be with, easy to talk to, and, she had to admit, really easy on the eyes. It was the first time in a long time that she had been able to look at a man without feeling angry.
"Supper is served, My Lady." Loading the plates with the filets and potatoes, he handed her the bowl of salad. "Help yourself."