Circle of the Moon

CIRCLE OF THE MOON An Australian story I’m used to these sudden Tropical storms but do all old cabins creak this much? When the rain began, the sound of it on the roof is soothing and I fell asleep. Awakening with a start, my heart is pounding in my chest. The rain , now pelting on the tin roof is so loud! Is that what woke me so suddenly? Or is it something else! Lightning flashes illuminate the inside of the cabin as I reach under the pillow for the torch. A loud clap of thunder ricochets around the cabin and panic seized me. It sounds like something is trying to break through the ceiling. Fearful of what is outside, I pull back the curtain a little and am terrified to see a large shape hunched over against the wind, bashing on the door. My heart is thumping as I try to halt the panic, and think what to do. I screamed when I heard sounds like heavy footsteps above me. In the dark, I almost tripped over my overnight bag where I’d left it near the door. Grabbing the handles I got ready to swing it if the door burst open. In the dark, and with surprise, I hope I can make my escape. I’m trembling as I position myself near the door. I can hear a man, yelling to someone on the roof. Oh God, what am I going to do! More banging on the door, then I thought I heard someone call my name. ‘Open the door Jill!’ Weak with relief, I recognised William’s voice. Switching on the light I rushed to open the door. The wind whipped it out of my hands and William almost fell inside. He helped me push the door closed and I don’t know whether to hug him with relief, or kick him for scaring me half to death. He is dripping wet and said, ‘Sorry if I frightened you, I was at a meeting in Mossman and heard the storm. As soon as I could leave, I drove up here to see if you were alright. I’d forgotten to tell you about the family of possums that live in the ceiling.’ ‘What!’ I shrieked incredulously, ‘I almost died of fright!’