

# Up In the Air

Other Works by Jonathan Solomon

Fiction:

White Tulips & Wedding Cake

Plays:

Office Ink

Out of Bounds

## Up In the Air

## By Jonathan Solomon

Copyright © Jonathan Solomon 2018

This book is copyright. All rights reserved. Except for private study, research, criticism or review, as permitted under the Australian _Copyright Act_ (1968) as amended, no part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission. Enquiries should be made to the publisher.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, and locations are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

First published in 2018 by

Jonathan Solomon (self-published)

PO Box 67

Thornleigh NSW 2120

Australia

ISBN: 978 0 646 99213 6 (ebook)

### This book is dedicated to my running group.

### Chapter 1

Charlie

"Should we call the police?" asked Grace Lightfoot in a panic, her hands covering the sides of her head. She looked at the sight before her eyes with a mixture of dismay and uncertainty.

Charlie Golding, who was standing by Grace's side, opened and then closed his mouth. He was not quite sure what to say.

"It's certainly a bright shade of pink," finally admitted Charlie as he tilted his head to one side and crossed his hairy arms.

"Charlie, it's graffiti! And it's all over the front wall of your circus arts school. At least they haven't damaged your sign," said Grace as she pointed to the affixed metal signage, _Inner Strength Circus Arts School_. She touched her dark micro-braided hair nervously.

Standing in front of the circus arts school, they continued to mentally process the large spray-painted and scraggly letters in neon pink: " _YOU ARE ALL CLOWNS!!!_ " Both Charlie and Grace were bewildered that this could happen to the school, which was a converted warehouse in an industrial area north of Adelaide.

"At least no-one has broken in," said Grace as she walked to open the front door with her key. She clicked open the lock and cocked her multi-pierced ear to one side for any unusual sounds. "And the alarm hasn't gone off. That's a relief."

"Definitely a relief," said Charlie as he watched Grace's activewear-attired gymnast figure walk into the school to deactivate the security alarm system.

Charlie, a muscular, bearded and barrel-chested man in his early forties, looked around the street and wondered who could have carried out this defacement. His eyes looked at the neighbouring warehouses, the park across the road, the nursing home next to the park and the local church. His eyes returned to the offensive vandalism.

_How is this happening in Adelaide, a quaint Australian city?,_ thought Charlie.

"It might just be a prank. Committed by some school students with low intelligence and minimal parental supervision, perhaps?" said Charlie to Grace as she reappeared in the door's entrance. He took out his smartphone from his skinny jeans and started taking photographs. "I won't call the police just yet."

"It's your business, so your decision. I hope it doesn't happen again. I've worked for you for several years and nothing like this ever happened," said Grace. She turned back inside to pick up the mail on the carpet in the reception area.

After about twenty or so snaps, taken from a variety of different angles, Charlie pocketed his smartphone into his skinny jeans with slight difficulty and followed Grace into the foyer. He saw Grace had bent down to pick up a large A4-sized glittery-blue envelope.

"The day just got weirder. Hmm, this looks fancy. I love opening other people's mail but in this case I'll make an exception. It's addressed specifically to you," said Grace.

She stood up to full height and handed over the sparkly blue envelope to Charlie. He turned the envelope over to see the details of the sender. There was a sparkly silver sticker with the words "The De Bonheur Travelling Circus" emblazoned in black and gold lettering.

"The De Bonheur Travelling Circus?" said Charlie out aloud. This circus was one of the oldest circuses in Australia and had been run by the famous De Bonheur family for generations. Growing up, he had seen many of their shows and was staggered by the sheer creativity and enthusiasm of their performers. It was pure escapism. This was the first time he had received direct communication from this renowned circus. The Inner Strength Circus Arts School had only been operational coming up to three years now.

Charlie opened up the envelope and pulled out a single sheet of silver paper.

Exclusive Invitation

Dear Charlie,

The De Bonheur Travelling Circus continues a long history of circus artistry by extraordinary performers.

To preserve this art form, the De Bonheur Travelling Circus cordially invites your circus arts school to present a showcase of one of your finest talent of Adelaide. The circus will be performing all throughout Australia, including a week in Adelaide in Spring this year. In Adelaide, we hope you can join us for one night and continue to keep our audiences captivated and enthralled. To confirm acceptance of this invitation please contact Blanche (details at the bottom of this invitation). Show us and Australia what you've got!

Yours spectacularly,

Blanche De Bonheur

_Blanche De Bonheur?,_ thought Charlie to himself. She was a famous entertainer and still looked stunning for her age, which he estimated was in her seventies. Blanche was the only daughter of the ringmaster, Frank De Bonheur, now deceased, who had inherited the circus from his own father. Blanche's mother, also deceased, had been none other than Eva Hudson, a tightwire walking artiste. Blanche was a child circus performer before becoming a part of the popular Trapeze Trio Trailblazers as a young adult. Blanche and two eye-wateringly very handsome men were part of this trio, Anchor Caspian and Magnus Eyre. They had performed successfully for quite a few years in the 1960s until an untimely accident occurred...

"How very exciting!" interrupted Grace on her tiptoes as she read over Charlie's thick shoulders.

"The finest talent?" queried Charlie. "We'll have to do an audition callout throughout Adelaide."

"Oh, I can't wait!" enthused Grace, jumping up and down on the spot. "This will be great exposure for your circus arts school. Congratulations, Charlie!"

"Thanks Grace. And we'll both be judges to find that one talent," said Charlie, pointing to Grace and himself. "Can you design and draft up an audition notice? Spring is only several months away."

"Sure! I'll get onto that today," said Grace as she pushed through the foyer's double doors, which opened out into the circus arts training space. She flicked on the switches and the lights fluttered to life to reveal a large and airy space, which resembled a gym. The space was fitted out with special rigging and equipment corresponding to the different circus arts. These included static trapezes, aerial silks and aerial hoops. There were tall, thick black curtains covering the perimeter of the space. To the left of the space was the specially-converted auditorium theatre and at the back, the change rooms and bathrooms could be found. Grace walked throughout the training space, checking that nothing was disturbed or out of the ordinary.

"So far, so good. Looks like the damage only happened outside," said Grace.

"That's good to hear. Well, I should probably head down to Bunnings and get some graffiti remover," said Charlie.

"Sure. Have fun at Bunnings, Charlie. I know you love checking out the hot dads there. Though, I hope it won't take you too long to clean off the graffiti," said Grace. "Now I'm curious as to who would do such a thing. You don't have any enemies do you, Charlie?"

Grace looked at Charlie with curious eyes. She knew Charlie was passionate about his school but rarely discussed his personal life. She did, however glean from Charlie that he was currently single.

Charlie paused for a few seconds before responding.

"Not that I know of," said Charlie and he turned to walk back outside.

### Chapter 2

Eckhart

Eckhart Ashton felt his chest expand and exhaled deeply. He was so relieved that the airplane landed safely in Adelaide. He had an intense dislike for being airborne and recoiled when an air steward upgraded him to a window seat to sit by himself. Seeing the land so far away below was absolutely terrifying and deeply unsettling for his stomach. He was only slightly more comfortable when sitting in an aisle seat, far away as possible from the windows and fluffy clouds. Eckhart had closed his eyes for the entire duration of the flight from Sydney to Adelaide, almost two hours in length. Yet he was glad to finally leave Sydney, his birthplace, behind after 36 years. Sydney had been nothing but trouble and contained many bleak reminders of what went wrong, of plans not coming to fruition and of relationships just not working out. Growing up in a big city, he had been exposed to the worst of human nature. The online dating apps made everything worse. Instant communication just became its opposite, a tortuous waiting game. Although there were days when Sydney was at its brilliant and glamorous best, there had also been days when Sydney felt like a perpetual construction site with harassed inhabitants. Sydney became overwhelming and just too hard. And harder, since his single mother had passed away two years ago from a brain aneurysm. He had been an only child.

The final straw came a few months ago at Eckhart's workplace. He had worked as an administration assistant for four years at a small accountants' organisation in the city, _Your Friendly Accountants Pty Ltd_. The business was not doing well and clients were hard to find. On one particularly busy and stressful day, the general manager, Liam, was frustrated at the current state of business affairs and yelled at Eckhart for not working hard enough to find new clients. For several minutes, Eckhart was subjected to a raving and ranting Liam. Eckhart did not do anything but just stood there, feeling the verbal abuse. It was at that point that Eckhart realised that he had lost the plot in choosing to keep working there. _I haven't actually killed anyone,_ thought Eckhart, as he stood there, powerless, against a furious and red-faced Liam. Eckhart felt he had no choice but to resign on that day. _Am I too passionate about my job?,_ thought Eckhart about why he stayed so long in this job. _Or was this a case of a work/life balance gone horribly wrong?_ On reflection, his resignation was a good thing. He no longer felt like he had to struggle every day just to get by. His soul was no longer dying on the inside, just so he could get a foot in the Sydney property market.

Eckhart unclicked his seatbelt, stood upright and reached overhead for his baggage. He had now left behind his old life in Sydney and hoped to start afresh in a new place. For this purpose he had chosen Adelaide.

He was hoping to use his mother's inheritance as a leg-up to buy a place somewhere in Sydney, but he could only afford a car space in the outer suburbs of Sydney. He then made the decision that he wanted to buy a property outright, and looking at a number of Australian cities, Adelaide was just within his budget, which was not a great budget either. Eckhart seemed to only afford very dilapidated units or houses and often these were in need of extensive renovations or even a complete demolition. However, Eckhart did have some remaining funds for improvements.

After spending hundreds of hours researching real estate websites, Eckhart, by chance, came across an old and very rundown sandstone house an hour's drive north of Adelaide. This house had clearly seen better days. He had gotten in touch with the real estate agent six weeks ago and the settlement took place last week. This project was the only thing that distracted Eckhart from the loss of his mother, thwarted career plans, disastrous love life and no achievements worthy of note to date.

He felt a momentary wave of sadness about losing his mother. He took a deep breath, exhaled and then began joining the queue of exiting passengers, walking down the creaking metal airstairs and across the tarmac. He walked up the long ramps that led inside the Adelaide airport and collected his large wheelie suitcase.

Once he exited Adelaide Airport, he got a bus into the city centre and then caught a train from Adelaide Station to Rosewater Station to meet the real estate agent there, Megan Temple.

As the single-level train slowed down to Rosewater train station, Eckhart placed his baseball cap over his light-brown hair, gathered up his various belongings and opened the train door to leave the carriage. He felt nervous. This house had been a sight unseen purchase, meaning that he had never inspected the house in person.

Eckhart looked along the outdoor open-air train station and saw a confident and smiling young woman in her early thirties. She had long dark brown hair and was wearing a pants-suit. She was also carrying a black satchel bag. Her face matched the small photograph within the sales advertisement for the house. As Megan had tucked her hair behind her ears, Eckhart could see that she wore behind-the-ear hearing aids.

"Hello, are you Eckhart? I'm Megan," said Megan, as she walked towards Eckhart, the only person who disembarked at the train station.

"That's me. Nice to meet you, Megan," said Eckhart.

"Nice to meet you too. Welcome to Adelaide! **'** said Megan as she offered a hand out for a handshake, which Eckhart shook. He felt Megan's confident and firm handshake.

"Thank you. I had no idea you were hearing-impaired. You speak really well. Am I speaking clearly enough for you?" asked Eckhart.

"As clear as an Adelaide sky during summer," said Megan with a laugh. "I'm very happy you are not a mumbler. You speak like we're in the same room."

"Thank you. It's good to know you are following me," said Eckhart. "Your hearing aids are a metallic silver?"

"Yes. My hearing aids are usually the first thing people notice about me. They give me superpowers! I can even use the telephone! Although they don't restore my hearing completely, they help enormously."

"That's very cool. And you lip-read as well?"

"Yes, I lip-read a lot. I need all the cues and clues I can get. But enough about me! Let's start walking to your new house. Come this way."

Megan pointed towards the end of the platform and they both started walking.

"So are you an Adelaide local?" asked Eckhart as they crossed a busy road and started walking into suburbia. There were streets lined with beautiful stone houses, surrounded by elongated eucalyptus trees. Megan tilted her head so that she was facing Eckhart. He repeated the question.

"Yes, pretty much. I adore Adelaide. It's not as big as Sydney or Melbourne but definitely more entertaining than Canberra. But don't quote me on that. Adelaide has a lovely laidback feel," said Megan.

She motioned to turn right into a quiet street.

"So why did you decide to move here?" asked Megan with raised eyebrows.

"More for a fresh start than anything. To turn over a new leaf. Start a new chapter," answered Eckhart.

"You're not running away from anything or anyone are you?" said Megan.

"I guess I am in a way. But it's more leaving the bad stuff behind. I kept feeling frustrated and angry all the time. I got yelled at by my boss at work and I couldn't take it anymore. He was extremely unpleasant," said Eckhart.

"We've all been there. There's always that one difficult person to deal with in the workplace," said Megan and she gestured to turn left into a different street. "I don't think there's such a thing as the perfect workplace."

"Oh, my hopes just got dashed," said Eckhart. "Anyhow, I won't be looking for employment anytime soon. I need a big time-out. I didn't like the person I was turning into back in Sydney. A complete walkover."

"Oh well, you're here now. Away from all that misery," said Megan.

"Yes, I actually feel relieved already," said Eckhart

"And you're here all by yourself?" said Megan, as they continued walking, changing the topic. "Looking for love as well?"

"No. I didn't come here for that. Back in Sydney I tried the dating apps to find husband material, but they were useless. I actually switched over to an app for learning a language and that was a much better use of my time," said Eckhart. "Love is out of the picture at the moment. I need to clear my head. I'm really messed up. I'm going to give abstinence a try for the rest of the year."

"Abstinence? Good luck! Well, I think you made an excellent choice to do the head-clearing here in Adelaide," said Megan.

"What about you? Have you found love?" asked Eckhart.

"No. I scare all the guys away. I'm very much Miss Independent. I like to think I'm self-reliant. I hate relying on other people. I have this amazing vibrating alarm clock that wakes me up in the morning," said Megan. "And here we are."

Megan and Eckhart stopped on the pavement in front of indeed a very old house, which looked lonely and unloved. This quarter-acre block had an untended and riotous garden. Wooden boards were nailed onto the house where windows and doors used to exist. There were black graffiti tags marked all over the sandstone façade and the boards.

"As you can see, the house is completely boarded up. I wish I had keys to give you, but as you know, this house doesn't even have a front or back door. That's why there were no available internal photographs for this listing online."

"Do you have any background about the previous owner?" asked Eckhart.

"I only have limited information at this stage. The relevant government department advised they received a deceased estate with no beneficiaries. They've been trying to sell this house for a long time but with no luck. And then you came along," said Megan with a dimpled smile. "It remains a mystery how the house came to be in this condition. Well, obviously from lack of maintenance, but why? Do you think you will demolish the house or renovate?"

_Should I demolish this house and free it from its extreme loneliness? Or should I save the house and restore it to its former glory?,_ thought Eckhart.

"I'm not sure yet. I guess it will depend on what the interior is like," said Eckhart. "It may or may not be dead on the inside."

"Good idea. If it's of any interest to you, I can ask the government department for more information about the estate?" asked Megan.

"That would be helpful," said Eckhart.

"Well, I wish you the best on this project. Have fun and if you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me by email. Here's my business card," said Megan. Eckhart accepted and looked at the business card, _Megan Temple Real Estate._

"Thank you, Megan. You've been a great help," said Eckhart.

With a wave Megan started walking back to Rosewater train station.

Eckhart walked through the tall weeds in the front garden and stood in front of the boarded-up house. He was alone once again. The silence of the house in front of him was haunting and he began to feel a sadness spread slowly over him. Tears started to well in his eyes. It was an unbearable sadness, washing over him, from head to toe.

"Hold it together, hold it together," muttered Eckhart to himself, but these words were not enough. Soon Eckhart was sitting cross-legged on the front steps to the house, gently rocking himself forward and back. He had a huge lump in his throat and began to sob.

After several minutes Eckhart took a few deep breaths. _In through the nose and out through the mouth._ He eventually calmed down and lifted himself to full height. He looked at the house and thought about what he would do next.

### Chapter 3

Margot

Margot Brotherwell strided into her office at Elonzo Guerdon Orlege Lawyers, a mid-tier Sydney law firm. She had worked her way up the legal hierarchy and was very happy to have recently been appointed partner. It had been a boys' club for a long time (the male partners had first met each other in the exclusive sandbox in kindergarten) and she wondered if she would ever be promoted from her role as Special Counsel. She knew it was her steely resolve, sharp mind, and above all, her persistence, that got her this far in the legal industry.

Her dyed platinum silver hair was immaculately straightened and she knew she looked very good for her sixty-two years. She was not going to retire anytime soon and often hoped to be working well into her seventies. Only then would she consider the idea of retirement. But ultimately, she loved working. It defined her.

There was a knock at the door. A smartly dressed young male paralegal in his late twenties stood at the door with a takeaway cup of cappuccino.

"Good Morning, Margot," said the young man with a heart-warming smile as he walked in and handed the cappuccino to Margot.

"Good Morning, Theodore," said Margot, accepting the beverage. "Is the morning meeting set up with the chief counsel of Saddleworth Limited?"

"Yes, the Saddleworth team are now waiting in reception," answered Theodore. "But I note that Fiona hasn't arrived at work yet."

"I really need Fiona to be here for that meeting as well. She's been doing the legwork in having this client change their taxation advice provider to us. But if she's unwell, I suppose I'll have to handle the meeting myself. Yet, I don't think she's ever taken a sick day off work, has she?" said Margot. She sipped her cappuccino and then placed the drink on her desk.

"Not that I can recall and Fiona hasn't rung in sick yet. Funnily enough, you actually forced Fiona to take two weeks' annual leave last month because she was working so hard," said Theodore.

"She had over six months' accrued annual leave. Management are trying to reduce their liability in employee leave entitlements. It was a relief she went," said Margot. "I hope she had an actual holiday. I didn't ask what she did though. Did she say anything to you?"

"I think I overheard Fiona saying that she went to Queensland and really enjoyed it. She seemed enthusiastic about her visit to the Wet Tropics," said Theodore.

"That's good to hear. Well, I'll take it from here, Theodore, and hopefully Fiona will turn up shortly."

Theodore nodded and left the office.

Margot set about compiling the required documentation for the 9am meeting when she realised she was missing the agenda document. Margot looked at her pink-diamond encrusted wrist-watch. She had ten minutes before the meeting began.

_Fiona should have the agenda document on her desk,_ thought Margot as she felt the smooth texture of her black pearl necklace. _I'll just go over to her office. Hopefully she's actually well and is just running late. I'm not fully briefed for this meeting_.

Margot departed her office and walked down the length of a long corridor. She turned right to Fiona's office, which was five doors down but Fiona's door was shut. Margot knocked. There was no response. She opened the door and walked in.

She marched over to Fiona's desk and ruffled through a few papers. _Here it is, the agenda document,_ thought Margot. As she was about to leave the office, she suddenly stood up straight. There was something different about Fiona's office this morning. Fiona usually had three small, but distinctive, artworks on her office wall above her computer screen. The three artworks were bright and colourful paintings of scenes from a circus. Margot frowned, trying to come up with a reason for the artworks' disappearance. _Have they been stolen?,_ wondered Margot. The artworks seemed out of place to Margot, considering they practised as specialists in the dry subject matter of taxation law.

Margot took one last look at the empty wall space and began to return to her office. As she walked back along the corridor she saw Theodore rushing towards her.

"We have a situation," said Theodore, slightly out of breath. "The CEO of Surface-Under Energy Limited wants to speak to you urgently. Are you able to take the call?"

_Surface-Under Energy Limited?,_ thought Margot. She nodded, a feeling of curiosity starting to seep under her skin.

"I'll take the call in my office," said Margot as she prepared herself for what was shaping up to be an unusual morning. _Why does the unexpected have to happen especially on a Monday morning?,_ thought Margot. She took a deep breath, sat down in her executive chair and placed the telephone headset on her head before accepting the call.

"Good Morning. This is Margot Brotherwell speaking. How may I help you?"

"Margot, I'm CEO of Surface-Under, Malcolm Mugtree. This is an emergency. A substantial amount of money has gone missing and we need the money back," said Malcolm.

"Money has gone missing? Are you quite sure?" said Margot.

"Yes. We're missing $90 million. And we need the funds back urgently. The company has to pay an urgent invoice to our parent company, Nevercatch Holdings, who are based overseas."

"I'm confused. How did you lose $90 million?" asked Margot and she heard Malcolm give an exasperated sigh.

"Can I speak to Fiona?" said Malcolm.

"As far as I'm aware, Fiona hasn't turned up to work yet," said Margot.

"That's just great!" exclaimed Malcolm. "I met with Fiona over a fortnight ago with instructions for a potential settlement with the Taxation Office."

"Yes, that's right. Fiona came to me flagging a possible settlement of a long-running tax dispute," said Margot.

"The bloody tax dispute. Nevercatch Holdings wanted us, the Australian subsidiary, to pay zero tax, as we have been doing over the last ten years, but I knew we had no chance of that continuing. I gave Fiona instructions to settle the current dispute for no more than $10 million. She gave me the details on how to transfer the funds to your law firm and then I requested our accounts team to make the transfer electronically," said Malcolm.

"But that doesn't explain $90 million having gone missing," said Margot.

"Well, the transfer was accidentally made with one too many zeros," said Malcolm.

"One too many zeros?" repeated Margot.

Margot took a moment to process how a slight human error could lead to such a catastrophic outcome. $100 million less than the approved tax settlement of $10 million meant $90 million had indeed gone missing.

"An internal error in your company?" said Margot.

"Yes. The whole accounts department has been fired. Where is Fiona? She needs to return the money," said Malcolm.

"And you think Fiona has stolen $90 million? But Fiona has always fought for the client's best interests with the most tax-effective business solutions. Stealing money is not Fiona's style at all," said Margot.

"Well, she better not have stolen the money. Nevercatch Holdings will be very unhappy if it finds out that $90 million has gone missing. We can't let this get into the news either. Surface-Under received substantial government subsidies."

"Let me check the trust accounts and I'll see what I can do. The $90 million may still be in our bank account," said Margot. "I'll call you back with an update."

"Better be good news when you call back," said Malcolm, and he hung up.

Margot took off her phone headset and stood up, with a very heavy feeling in her stomach.

"Theodore," said Margot as she saw the paralegal walk past her door. "Can you find me a copy of Surface-Under Energy's Authority?"

Theodore nodded his head and left.

Margot then walked through several long corridors on her way to see the financial accountant, Suzy, who was hidden by a row of lush green ferns.

"Hello Suzy. I have an urgent request to check the trust accounts for Surface-Under," said Margot.

"Sure, let me just send this email. Alright, Surface-Under you say?" said Suzy as she typed into the law firm's accounting software.

"Yes Surface-Under Energy," said Margot. "One of the top gas producers in Australia."

"Right, here we go," said Suzy as she clicked onto the client account details. She moved her head across the screen as she interpreted the combinations of letters and figures.

"Hmm, I can see $100 million was deposited in the trust account two weeks ago. And, oh," paused Suzy.

"And oh, what, Suzy?" said Margot.

"I can see that a week ago two cheques were drawn up. One for the Taxation Office for the amount of $95 million and the other amount for $5 million to 'Cash'," said Suzy.

"Cancel those two cheques now! We may still be able to return the money to Surface-Under," said Margot.

Suzy tapped away at her computer as she logged into the law firm's bank account online.

_Why did it take Surface-Under two weeks to find out they made a transfer error?,_ thought Margot.

Suzy further analysed the screen before turning her now paler face towards Margot.

"Margot, I'm afraid both cheques have been cleared from the bank account," said Suzy apologetically.

Margot stood still with an expressionless and flat affect. She then returned abruptly to her office, retrieved her smartphone and dialled Fiona's mobile phone number.

"Fiona, this is Margot speaking. I don't know what's going on but I need you to answer your phone now and tell me what's happening. This is not a joke! If I don't hear from you in the next 24 hours I will contact the police," said Margot as she left the message on Fiona's voice message bank.

Margot walked around her office in frustration. She could not afford to face the ignominy of losing a client as well-paying as Surface-Under.

_This is so out of character for Fiona,_ thought Margot. _Fiona was always toeing the line on procedures and ensuring the client's needs came first, obviously after the lawyers' duty to the Courts._ Margot knew she had to act fast. It was starting to become clear that Fiona had acted against client instructions and was in hiding, rather than missing.

Theodore knocked on Margot's office's door frame.

"Here's the copy of Surface-Under Energy's Authority you requested," said Theodore as he handed over a manila folder to Margot.

"Can you also get me a copy of Fiona's HR file, as well?"

"Fiona's HR file? But HR are really restrictive on who has access to personnel information. I think you'll need to complete the Request for Personnel Information Form. They get back in touch within seven days," said Theodore.

"But I need her personnel file now," said Margot, placing the manila folder onto her desk. "Who will I need to speak to?

"Samuel Wafers. But he is a strict form-completion kind of person. But I'll see what I can do," said Theodore as he left Margot's office.

Margot then opened the manila folder. She read the Authority form and saw the scope of the retainer with the law firm. She came across the most applicable part: _Elonzo Guerdon Orlege Lawyers to act on behalf of Surface-Under Energy Limited in any dealings with the Taxation Office._ Margot re-read the retainer and saw there was no further definition provided on the term " _dealings"_.

_That could mean anything,_ thought Margot. _If Fiona did liaise with the Taxation Office, there was nothing in the retainer limiting her from acting the way she had done, except perhaps for the amount to be settled._

Margot then read a file note about Fiona's meeting with Malcolm Mugtree, outlining a potential settlement of a tax dispute. However no note was made that $10 million was to be the maximum settlement amount. Then she saw the print-out of a receipt from the Taxation Office, stamped with last Friday's date from the documents team, confirming settlement and receipt of the tax dispute for $95 million. _But what happened to the $5 million made out to 'Cash'?,_ thought Margot. She closed the file and her eyes.

When she re-opened her eyes, she knew she had no choice but to alert the managing partner. She then made her way to Michael Guerdon's office.

### Chapter 4

Charlie

It was a lovely and crisp morning in Adelaide as Grace bopped on her way to Inner Strength Circus Arts School. She was listening to vocal deep house music and dance-walking in time with the atmospheric vocals. On close approach to the school she stopped abruptly and with a look of horror, slowly took off her headphones.

"No, not again!" said Grace as she stood still in shock.

She looked at the smartphone she was holding in her left hand and touched the screen to call Charlie.

"Charlie speaking," he answered.

"Charlie! You're not going to believe this! There is new graffiti on the front of the school," said Grace.

"What? Again?" said Charlie.

"Yes! The graffiti is still bright pink but it's a new message this time," said Grace.

"What does it say this time?" asked Charlie.

"It says, 'HOOPLA??? MORE LIKE HOPELESS!'. That's the whole message. Charlie, are you sure you don't have any enemies?" asked Grace. "Have you stepped on anyone's toes? Upset someone?"

"Not that I'm aware of," said Charlie, after a beat of hesitation. "Can you take a lot of photos of the graffiti for me and if we have to, we'll go to the police."

"Did you want me to clean up the graffiti after I take the photos?" asked Grace,

"Yes, please. There should still be enough cleaning solutions left," said Charlie.

"Will do," said Grace, calming down, now that there was a plan. "Oh, by the way, we've also got quite few acts interested in the talent audition for the De Bonheur Circus."

"Oh, that's cool news," said Charlie.

"Also, did you get the flyers for the beginner classes?" asked Grace.

"Yes, I just collected them from the printers. I'm now in Rundle Mall handing them out. Hopefully, we'll have a few new students in the next few upcoming weeks," said Charlie.

"Good luck, Charlie. Let me know if you need me to order more flyers. Ta Charlie," said Grace.

"Will do," said Charlie and the call ended. He put the phone back in his back pocket of his skinny jeans and again cast his attention to his surrounds in Rundle Mall.

"Come along to the circus arts school," said Charlie out aloud as he saw two teenage girls walk past. They smiled apologetically as they ignored the thrusted out flyers.

"Meet new people and get fit in the process," said Charlie as he handed out a flyer to a businesswoman, who looked frostily straight ahead and completely disregarded Charlie.

Charlie sighed. This job was harder than he thought. The constant rejection from the general public was tough. Yet, he had to generate revenue for the circus arts school. This school was not going to run itself.

A group of school boys came up through the mall and Charlie managed to hand out four flyers. When the group of students left the mall, he could see three flyers had been discarded. Charlie walked over to pick up the abandoned flyers. While Charlie was bending over, he saw a glimpse between his legs, of a man, who was looking rather enviously in Charlie's direction. Charlie stood up straight and turned around towards the man, who seemed to have been mortified at the realisation he had been caught staring at Charlie's muscular backside. The man started to quickly walk away, moving through to the other side of Rundle Mall.

"Hey, you!' said Charlie, as he walked over to the man. The man stopped and turned to face Charlie in embarrassment.

"Would you like to join a trapeze class?" asked Charlie.

"A trapeze class?" said the man in confusion and his face relaxed as he realised he was not going to be lectured about intensely objectifying Charlie in public.

"Yes, a trapeze class. We cater to all abilities. My name is Charlie. I run the Inner Strength Circus Arts School."

"Hi Charlie," said the man. "I'm Eckhart. I would love to take part but I have a fear of heights. Plus, I hate flying."

"How can you hate flying? It's an exhilarating experience. Maybe I can help you get over your fears," said Charlie as he handed over a flyer. "If you change your mind, you'll know where we are. I'll be gentle. Have a good day, Eckhart."

Eckhart nodded and walked away, folding the flyer into squares and depositing the piece of paper into his shirt pocket.

Charlie smiled to himself. He looked around the mall but suddenly stopped smiling. He looked around for anything to hide behind and saw the large mirror sculpture. He hid behind this large artwork, hoping the person he was avoiding would not notice him.

The man Charlie was hoping to avoid turned his face and Charlie exhaled with relief that it was a case of mistaken identity. It was not Timothy, an ex-boyfriend.

Two years ago

Timothy Cracknell looked pissed off. An ugly look had come across his usually calm and handsome face.

"You're not coming to the opening night? Of the show I'm directing? But I really want you to see the set design I helped spray-paint," said Timothy. "But you don't have time for that. Or for me, either. Am I hearing correctly?"

"Tim, I can't make it tonight but I'll make it tomorrow night. I promised the gymnasts they could use my school tonight for rehearsals, before the state championships take place next week," said Charlie.

"You really do care more about that school than you do about me. This is a show I've worked tirelessly on for months and you couldn't ask the gymnasts to practise on a different night?" said Timothy.

"Look Tim, I would've asked Grace to help but she's in the US visiting family. I really didn't have a choice," said Charlie.

"Fine, so what do I say to my friends? They all know you. And you're not going to be there this evening. How embarrassing! They're going to think there's something wrong with our relationship," said Timothy bitterly. "You know people enjoy our photo opportunities as a couple. Are we no longer the "it" couple?"

"Don't get so worked up. I said I'll go tomorrow. This is just a case of bad timing. Nothing more, nothing less," said Charlie. "Why do you always have to make a big drama out of everything?"

Timothy had a look of fury on his face as Charlie said those words.

" _Are you accusing me of being a drama queen?" said Timothy, barely controlling his rage._

Without one more word, Timothy gathered up his wallet and car keys and made to leave the unit, where they lived together in Semaphore.

"Tim, please don't be like this again," said Charlie. "Look, I'll make it up with you tomorrow night. We can be us again."

"There is no "we" or "us". We can't even be a couple," said Timothy, before he slammed the front door shut behind him.

Charlie sighed. There was a trace of truth in what Timothy had said. The circus arts school was very important to Charlie and he was not going to turn down opportunities for revenue.

Things had started to go downhill when Timothy moved in with Charlie one month ago. Before that they had been in a "living apart together" relationship for seven months. The first sign when things started to go wrong was Timothy's eagerness to redecorate the unit with dark colours. Charlie had to say no and preferred the status quo of the neutral whites. Timothy had accused Charlie of stifling his creativity. Then Timothy also wanted to paint artworks inside the unit, but Charlie put a stop to that. Charlie felt Timothy would accidentally spill paint on the carpet and the walls, no matter how careful Timothy said he would be. Timothy had railed against his creativity being crushed yet again.

Charlie had got himself organised and went to head off to the school to let the gymnasts use the space. Several hours later, Charlie returned to the unit to find that Timothy had already returned, as Timothy's car was parked in their allocated car space. And from the loud sounds and grunts coming from the bedroom, it sounded like Timothy was with another guy. Or was that guys?, thought Charlie. He covered his face with his hands and left the unit in frustration. He decided he would sleep at the circus arts school. The relationship with Timothy was most definitely over. No more "we" and certainly no more "us".

### Chapter 5

Eckhart

"Hello, I'm David, the handyman with the carpentry speciality. So, this is your house?" asked David. He was a fit man in his late forties with a shaved head and deep, soulful brown eyes.

"Hi David," said Eckhart as they shook hands. "Yes, it's my first house and I still can't believe it."

"Congratulations," said David, patting Eckhart on the shoulder.

"Thank you, but it might be a while before I get to live in here," said Eckhart motioning to the derelict house. "I'm staying in a nearby motel for a few weeks while I get the renovations sorted out. You're the first tradie to start working on the house. I've got no experience in being hands-on in this situation so I'm more than happy for you to show the way."

"All good!" said David. "So as per my quote discussed over the phone, you want me to un-board the house and check inside to assess whether the house is salvageable or not?"

"That's right. I'm keen to see what's inside. I even bought myself some equipment for this occasion," said Eckhart, motioning towards the hard hart, goggles and the face mask, which were sitting on the front stairs.

"Good to see," said David rubbing his hands together. "Let's do this! I'll be back in just a sec."

David returned to his Hi-lux ute and carried a toolbox back over to the front of the house.

"I'll open the boarding over the front door and the windows on either side. Stand back, as we don't know what will be inside," said David.

Eckhart nodded and stood safely a few metres away.

David took out a crowbar from his toolbox and then began to start loosening the edges around the heavily graffitied boarding of the front door space. There were sounds of wood being splintered accompanied by the sounds of David's deep grunts. After several minutes, the boarding finally came loose. The interior dust became disturbed and began to billow out of the house. A heavy and musty smell exited the house.

"It's been a while since this place has been aired out!" said David as he stepped away from the house and wiped the sweat off his forehead. He then continued to open the boarding covering the front two windows. "Before I leave today, I'll cover the doorways and window spaces with canvas to keep out uninvited guests."

As David and Eckhart waited for the dust to settle, they both put on their hard hats, goggles and face masks. David had explained that he would go into each room carefully and stop them going any further if there were hazards, due to lack of structural integrity and/or unexpected surprises.

David then walked inside the house, taking cautious steps to assess whether the wooden floors were stable. The dark wooden floorboards creaked as David walked with his full weight, but the boards did not give way. He continued to walk into what appeared to be a central corridor. Many of the walls' corners were badly chipped. David motioned Eckhart that it was safe to enter. They could see that the long corridor was filled with many packed and fraying cardboard boxes. Old wallpaper were peeling from the walls.

David then moved around the boxes and turned into the first room on the right. This room was again filled with boxes but appeared to have once been a lounge room, the only furniture being a stately looking leather couch and a few old wooden chairs. David looked at the ceiling, which was mottled with black spots and the white paint had yellowed to a cream butter colour. They left this room and returned back to the corridor. The first room on the left appeared to be a bedroom. There was a closet, but the mirrors on the inside doors of the closet had shattered and the shards of glass were still on the floor. Alongside the shards was an old colour photograph, possibly from the 1960s. Eckhart bent down carefully to pick up the photograph. It was a photograph of a beautiful woman with luscious black hair with two handsome and muscular men. They were standing on either side of this woman. One man appeared to have dark-brown hair, bright red lips and strong leonine features. Eckhart was not sure from which country. Mexico? Brazil? The other man was freckled, sunburnt and had light brown/blonde hair. They were all wearing colourful tights. _Were they swimmers? Dancers? At a costume party?,_ thought Eckhart. He was intrigued and returned the photograph to the floor.

David and Eckhart then continued walking around the house. They saw that the bathroom and the kitchen were poorly maintained. David tested the switches but it appeared that they did not work properly and gave out loud crackling sounds.

"Geez, that's dangerous! You'll need an electrician to check out the power and wiring," said David after bringing down his face mask.

After David was satisfied he had inspected the whole house, he gestured to Eckhart that they could go back outside to the front garden.

"Let's check the fencing and backyard," said David.

They walked through the overgrown bushes to the left side of the house and saw the wooden fencing was in disrepair. Quite a few fence posts were missing. As they approached the backyard space, they could see there were even a few chickens roaming about.

"Looks like the neighbours have a roost," said David as he shooed the chickens back to their owner's property.

They clucked indignantly away.

"I'll make sure the fencing is properly fixed. It's important to set boundaries, you know? You don't want these chickens trampling all over the vegetation and taking advantage of your backyard. Let's keep our distance from those chickens, hey," said David with a grin.

"I don't want to lose the house to the chickens," said Eckhart. "Or to the weeds either."

"That's the way to go," said David, high-fiving a surprised Eckhart. "You don't want to give your yard away to just anything."

David continued to walk along the perimeter of the property, sensing the amount of work required to be done. They then returned to the front of the house.

"Well, that was interesting. This house appears to have good bones. That's good news for you. It won't need to be demolished. You've got yourself a bargain, I reckon," said David.

"You think I have good foundations here?" asked Eckhart.

"Yes, and with a lot of tender loving care, you can turn this place into a functional home again," said David as he faced the front of the house. "And I can see you're enjoying yourself out here."

"Certainly beats a day at the office," said Eckhart.

"I bet it does. I'll come back and install new doors and windows over the next few days. I'll email a few ideas and you can decide which choices you like," said David. "I'll go open up the boarded doors and windows at the back of the house now."

"Sounds like a plan," enthused Eckhart as he saw the renovation process was now underway. David retrieved the crowbar and walked around to the back of the house.

Eckhart's mobile phone began to ring. Megan Temple was calling.

"Hello Megan," answered Eckhart.

"Hey Eckhart," greeted Megan. "I just wanted to let you know that I have more information about the deceased estate. I actually have the folder on my desk. Did you want me to drop this over when you're free?"

"Yes, please. I'll be at the house for the next hour or so," said Eckhart.

"Rightio, I'll come over," said Megan. "I should be there in about twenty minutes."

"See you soon," said Eckhart.

A separate matter then came over Eckhart's mind, in which he wanted to raise with Megan.

"Um, Megan, I was wondering if you, ah, I'm not sure how to say this. No, it's a silly idea," said Eckhart after a further moment's thought.

"No, go on, you can ask me anything," said Megan.

"Well, I was walking through Rundle Mall the other day and I got handed this flyer for a trapeze class," said Eckhart.

"What, sorry? I missed that last bit. You got a flyer for a...? Can you repeat that part?" said Megan.

"A flyer for a trapeze class," repeated Eckhart.

"A trapeze class? Well, there's always something to do in Adelaide. That does sound exciting," said Megan.

"Yeah, but I'm a bit nervous about going on my own," said Eckhart. "Plus, the guy who gave me the flyer was very good-looking."

"So there's the real reason you want to go. It has nothing to do with trapeze," said Megan with a laugh. "And, you would like me to come along? Sure, that sounds like a lot of fun. I'll come over now and you can tell me all the details. I'll be there soon," said Megan and she ended the call.

Eckhart smiled to himself as he placed his phone back into his pocket. Things were looking up.

### Chapter 6

Margot

Margot looked out at the harbourviews as she waited with anticipation in the law firm's boardroom. It had been two weeks since the money was discovered missing and Michael Guerdon had now taken over the client management of Surface-Under. Malcolm Mugtree had given Michael an ultimatum that the money had to be found in two weeks or else he would terminate the retainer with Elonzo Guerdon Orlege Lawyers.

Michael Guerdon walked briskly into the boardroom.

"What a disaster," said Michael sternly, glaring at Margot through his square spectacles. "Elonzo Guerdon Orlege Lawyers doesn't have $90 million to return to Surface-Under. And we still don't know Fiona's whereabouts. Her family are clueless as to where she could be. They appear to be estranged from each other."

Michael sat down at the board table. He clasped his hands together.

"So, here's what's going to happen," said Michael. "You're going to go over the tax dispute file and see if there is justification for a smaller settlement. The client has advised that they may accept a settlement of up to $30 million this time and they want us to ask the Taxation Office to return part of the submitted money."

"But Michael, once a settlement takes place, it's final," said Margot with frustration.

"Look, we need to try all avenues. If we don't achieve the right results we'll lose this client. They are one of our biggest sources of income," said Michael. "I've set up a meeting with the Taxation Office and you're going to fix this."

"When's this meeting?" asked Margot.

"In a few hours," said Michael.

"You do realise you're asking me to do the impossible?" said Margot unhappily.

"Just change the outcome. We've held off on calling the police, because we don't want a media storm. It's your job to find the money or...," said Michael, leaving the sentence unfinished.

_Or else,_ thought Margot. She folded her arms crossly.

"Anyway, it's without question that Fiona will be fired if she ever returns here," said Michael. "Please try your best to make Surface-Under happy again. This meeting's over."

Margot returned to her office and studied the Surface-Under file again. When time came nearer to the Taxation Office meeting, she left the office and walked to the Taxation Office's premises, a few blocks away from her office. She spoke to the building's concierge who handed over a guest pass to access the lift. She walked into the lift and was soon sitting in reception, waiting for the meeting.

"Hello, Margot," said a confident woman in her late forties. "My name is Julia. The Concierge alerted me to your arrival."

"Hello Julia. Thank you for agreeing to take this meeting," said Margot standing up. They shook hands.

"The meeting room is this way," said Julia as she beeped her pass against the security door. Julia led Margot to a small meeting room where they sat down at a table.

"So, how can I help you?" asked Julia with a toothy smile.

"I wanted to clarify some aspects of the Surface-Under tax dispute settlement. Is the Taxation Office aware that Fiona Fern acted beyond her given instructions from Surface-Under?" said Margot.

"No, I wasn't. Everything appeared to be above board. Fiona was very professional and we had been liaising on this matter for quite some time. I think we both wanted a resolution to this long-running dispute. We calculated that Surface-Under owed the Taxation Office in total $400 million over the past ten years, for which they had not paid anything as tax payable. Considering the hard-line stance of Surface-Under, $95 million seemed a satisfactory settlement along with strict confidentiality from both parties," said Julia. "We were lucky to get anything, really."

"Well, as I was saying, Fiona was acting beyond verbal instructions and only had client approval to settle for no more than $10 million," said Margot.

"That's laughable. Surface-Under is making huge amounts of profits and moving these funds outside Australia. $95 million is cheap compared to the higher tax bill they would've paid if we continued to fight this in court," said Julia.

"How about a revised settlement of $30 million and the Taxation Office refund $65 million back to Surface-Under?" asked Margot. "I can't emphasise enough how angry Surface-Under is with Elonzo Guerdon Orlege Lawyers. Fiona acted fraudulently."

"I'm sorry Margot. I can see what you're trying to do but the court approved the settlement," said Julia. "We're not returning any of the money back."

Margot sat silently for a moment.

"Can you tell me how Fiona presented to you? Did she say anything strange or make any unexpected comments?" asked Margot.

"Fiona seemed courteous, polite and focused. Nothing out of the ordinary," said Julia. "We just got down to business. We had minimal small talk, apart from..."

"Apart from what?" said Margot, a small feeling of hope arising within.

"Apart from Fiona saying that the legal profession was not for her anymore," said Julia.

"Really? Did she say why?" asked Margot.

"Oh, I think she may have just been talking out aloud. She wanted to do something creative. She joked she should run away to the circus," said Julia with a grin.

Margot frowned.

"Well, I won't take any more of your time," said Margot as she stood up to leave.

"Actually, there is one more thing. This Surface-Under settlement was one of the biggest settlements I've had working with Fiona. Usually she was able to get away with much smaller settlement amounts with her clients," said Julia.

Margot folded her arms.

"Well, I'll show you the way out," said Julia standing up. They shook hands again and Margot made her way out into the reception area.

_This is not good news,_ thought Margot. _Michael is not going to be happy at all._

### Chapter 7

De Bonheur Travelling Circus @ Perth, Western Australia

Blanche De Bonheur stood still behind the backdrop of the ringside stage. The De Bonheur circus had continued their tour around Australia and had now stopped in Perth. The enormous red and white Big Top had now been erected. It had taken three large trucks, which had the De Bonheur name emblazoned alongside their sides, to transport all the equipment.

And now the circus show was about to begin.

Blanche peeked out to the side of the backdrop and saw the audience was packed with many young families. _They're in for a treat,_ thought Blanche. A yawn came across Blanche, which she could not stifle. She was extremely tired, yet she had a job to do. The tiredness was due to being up all night doing payroll for the circus performers and technical crew. In addition, she was also kept awake at night by the fear that the circus would die on her. The circus was profitable but Blanche knew she would not live forever. She felt old age was starting to catch up with her. _I don't have a successor, and time is running out to find one,_ thought Blanche restlessly. She was the last in line of the well-known De Bonheur circus family. The future of the circus was up in the air.

Blanche took a deep breath and steadied herself. At this moment, she needed to focus on the present and that was to be the ringmaster of the De Bonheur Circus. Once she mentally got into character, she placed her glittering pink top hat on her blonde-dyed finger wave hairstyle. Her matching pink circus outfit was also sequinned and ready to sparkle. Blanche plastered a smile across on her face and she began her performance.

"Ladies and gentlemen! Girls and boys! Welcome to the De Bonheur Travelling Circus! I'm Blanche, the ringmaster and it's lovely to see you all here," boomed Blanche through a sparkly pink megaphone. "We are loving being here in Perth and we have an amazing line-up of acts to keep you surprised, scared and exhilarated. Now let's introduce a wonderful act. Let's welcome the incredibly bendy Alexia Flexia!"

The crowd applauded as the circular ringside stage darkened and a haunting music track began to play. A spotlight beamed onto a young woman wearing a purple velvet leotard on the stage. She was motionless in a hand stand but then began to move her entire body by hand-walking in a large circle. Judging from Alexia's facial expression she appeared to love being upside down.

Alexia stopped hand-walking and then began to wave her legs in a multitude of directions, becoming a human octopus. She returned her legs up to a straight line and began to do stand-up push-ups. She did twenty push-ups, to the amazement of the audience. Alexia then began to do shoulder taps, balancing well on one hand while she tapped her other shoulder with her free hand.

Alexia then slowly moved her legs, so that they hovered over her head. With strong concentration showing on Alexia's face, she moved her feet over her head onto the ground in front of her face, and arced up to standing position. The audience applauded.

The spotlight then beamed onto a one-metre high glass cube. Alexia went back onto her hands with her legs bent over her head. The toes of her left foot opened the door to the glass cube. Then very carefully, Alexia firmly planted her feet on the ground in front of her face and, like a spider, scuttled into the glass box. Once inside, Alexia's toes on her right foot closed the door. The audience clapped again. After the applause Alexia exited the glass cube and was now standing upright. Ashe then embarked on a complicated gymnastics routine where she was performing cartwheels, somersaults and backflips. Then the music stopped and Alexia smiled and bowed before the appreciative audience.

### Chapter 8

Charlie

Charlie was excited that the first class of the beginner trapeze course was about to begin.

"We're just waiting for a few more people to arrive," said Charlie to the three attendees who were ready for the class. They were all standing near the trapeze apparatus inside the circus arts school.

"Do you know there's some very bright pink graffiti out the front?" asked a class participant.

"Yes, unfortunately. I've got this trapeze class to run and so I haven't had time to clean it up but once this class is over, I'll get onto it," said Charlie. He decided he would not get the police involved as he thought their resources were better utilised for more serious offences.

He had been gobsmacked to see the graffiti and Grace came in panicked when she arrived at the circus arts school half an hour later.

"What kind of message is that?" Grace had said. "The message reads 'SO YOU THINK YOU'RE A BIG TOP???'. What's that even supposed to mean?" said Grace in a moment of confusion. "We don't have a Big Top. We run classes out of a warehouse."

Charlie shook his head to clear his mind and looked down at the clipboard with the attendees' names. A man and a woman entered the training space and Charlie smiled when he saw that there was now a full attendance of class.

"I'm so happy you came along," said Eckhart to Megan. As Eckhart noticed that Megan had not heard him, he touched Megan's arm.

"Oh, did you say something," said Megan with a small jump.

"I just wanted to say thank you for coming along," said Eckhart.

"No worries. It's good to do something different every once in a while. Variety is the spice of life and all that," said Megan. She and Eckhart smiled as they joined the class.

"Hi everyone! My name is Charlie and this is your first class in the beginner trapeze course," said Charlie to the five participants. Charlie was wearing a tight wrestling singlet. The participants were not sure where to look, except for Eckhart. Then Eckhart remembered his trial of abstinence and became ashamed of himself. He then kept his eyes above Charlie's shoulders.

"We'll go around the group for introductions. Say your name, give us some information about yourself and why you've decided to learn trapeze. Let's start with you " said Charlie as he motioned towards Eckhart. "I remember you. You took the flyer I gave you at Rundle Mall."

"You've got a good memory. My name is Eckhart and I recently arrived here from Sydney. I don't have a job yet but I'm over-seeing renovations of a very old house at the moment. Um, why am I taking a trapeze class? I have a serious fear of heights and flying. I thought I see if these fears can be overcome," said Eckhart,

"Thank you Eckhart," said Charlie as he ticked off Eckhart's name on the clipboard. The group looked to Megan.

"Hello everyone, my name is Megan. I'm hearing impaired so if you could face me when you speak to me that would be great. I work at my own real estate agency which I really enjoy. I'm my own boss! I'm taking this class to give emotional support to my friend, Eckhart."

"That's very generous of you Megan," said Charlie, marking off Megan's attendance. A slim man in his late thirties was standing next to Megan.

"Greetings, everyone, I'm Vernon Harrower. I'm a psychologist specialising in mental health amongst young men as well as addictions. I'm taking this class because I'm after a new experience that takes me out of my head. I'm constantly reading research papers and psychological studies, so it'd be good to do something physical every now and then," said Vernon.

"Thanks Vernon. Hopefully, you'll become addicted to trapeze. In a healthy way, of course," said Charlie as he marked Vernon off the attendance list. A young woman in active wear was standing next to Vernon.

"Hey guys, my name is Isabella and I'm a retail assistant at a sports store. I'm on the lookout for new ways to improve my fitness, so here I am," said Isabella.

"Awesome, Isabella," said Charlie as he ticked off Isabella's name on the list. "And the last person standing?"

"I'm Arnaud. I'm a car mechanic. I'm only here because my girlfriend Isabella dragged me here. She chose trapeze as something for us to do together. Quality couple time, I think they call it," said Arnaud.

"It'll be fun for sure," said Charlie as he marked off Arnaud's attendance. "Again, thank you all for turning up. In the beginning of this course we'll be working on static trapeze and then we'll move onto the trapeze swing set in several weeks. We're now standing near the static trapeze. These are made of rope with a metal bar."

Charlie motioned to the three static trapezes suspended from the rigging affixed to the warehouse's ceiling. Under each static trapeze there was an acromat to break any falls.

"There are many tricks, as we call them, that you can do on a static trapeze and I will demonstrate a few," said Charlie. He manoeuvred himself up on the trapeze and was soon demonstrating at least fifteen different tricks. Charlie was standing, sitting, reclining, rotating and hanging upside down gracefully as he moved from one trick to the next.

"Maybe I should go home," said a daunted Eckhart to Megan.

"You'll be fine," said Megan. "Plus, you're right. Charlie's hot."

The class applauded when Charlie jumped down from the trapeze after his demonstrations.

"Megan, will you be okay with your hearing aids?" asked Charlie, motioning to his ears.

"It should be fine. I would prefer to do this with my hearing aids on. The moulds connecting to the hearing aid should stay in my ears," said Megan.

"Alright," said Charlie. He now turned his attention to the whole group. "Can we have Megan, Vernon and Isabella on the trapeze and we will do the very first trick I performed," said Charlie.

The beginner class continued without a hitch and Charlie could see the participants were enjoying themselves, even if they were out of their comfort zones. As the clock ticked to the end of the lesson, the participants were still engrossed in learning new tricks.

"See you all next time. You all did great," said Charlie as he waved goodbye to Eckhart, Megan, Vernon, Isabella and Arnaud as they left the training space.

"How did the class go?" asked Grace when Charlie walked to the front desk.

"It was great," said Charlie. "The class was just the right size. And they brought their enthusiasm along. Even Arnaud started to become more involved in the tricks. He wasn't happy being forced into this class by his girlfriend, apparently," said Charlie.

"Oh well, relationships are about compromise and understanding," said Grace.

"Compromise?" said Charlie, giving Grace a quizzical look.

"Yes. Now about the graffiti, you sure you don't want me to call the police?" said Grace.

"Oh, the graffiti, I totally forgot. No, don't contact the police. I'll get the cleaning solutions now" said Charlie. He collected the bottles from under a sink in the storeroom and made his way outside.

"So, you think you're a Big Top?" said Charlie as he read the graffiti out aloud. After a moment of reflection, Charlie said to the graffitied wall, "Yes. I think I am."

There was a honk behind him, and as Charlie turned around he saw an impatient driver waiting behind another car on the main road. The driver looked familiar. _Was it my ex Brendan?,_ thought Charlie. The angry driver turned his head. With a relief, Charlie found it was not his ex-boyfriend, Brendan, but someone who looked like him. He then remembered why they no longer stayed as a couple.

12 months ago

"What took you forever?" said Brendan, wearing his white night-time construction outfit. "I go on shift in half an hour and you took your time to get back home."

Charlie had just walked in the front door. He had had a long exhausting day at the circus arts school and the last thing he needed was to have another fight with Brendan. Charlie was just so tired.

"Brendan, I'm really sorry. Maybe I can cook you something quickly for dinner before you go to work," said Charlie as he dropped his backpack on the ground and locked the door behind him.

"I've had something to eat five minutes ago because you didn't come home back in time," said Brendan. "I hardly ever see you."

"We've spoken about this before. If you found a job during the day, I could spend more time with you in the evenings," said Charlie.

"Charlie, this is how I earn my money, I'm a road construction worker. It's what I've been trained for. It's hard for me to find employment. Plus, you know I'm not skilled at other jobs," said Brendan. "I'm sorry that I can't please you by having a standard nine-to-five job. Stop being so demanding."

"You know what? I've really had enough of fighting, I'm tired and just don't have the energy. I'm sick of having to fight with you all the time," said Charlie.

"We fight because you couldn't do one simple thing and that is to come home earlier. I'm so frustrated with you. But I still need you," said Brendan. "I need you badly."

"Yes but not all the time," said Charlie exasperated.

"You know that I don't have many friends," said Brendan. "I can't really open up about myself at work otherwise I might get treated differently. You're all I've got."

"Brendan, you're asking a lot of me to make you happy 100% of the time," said Charlie. "Why don't you make new friends? Try and be more social."

"I don't want to. I only want you," said Brendan. "I hate myself when I'm alone. I'm desperate for you to love me. You know I just want to be loved. I feel there is a connection here. I can connect with you."

"Look, I can't do this anymore. I should be able to come home and feel relaxed. You make me feel the opposite. You're suffocating me. I need my own space. I just can't have that when you're here. Brendan, you are not the only person in the world who has feelings," said Charlie.

Brendan looked very upset when Charlie said those words. Brendan started to cry.

"Right, well clearly you see that I'm a burden. I'll make myself scarce. I don't mean anything to you," said Brendan through sobs as he gathered up his belongings.

Charlie stood by silently as Brendan placed everything into a sports bag. Brendan came across an empty coffee mug, which had the message, "I heart U" and Brendan threw this against the living room wall, the mug smashing to pieces. Then Brendan left and slammed the door on the way out.

### Chapter 9

Eckhart

_Now what to do with all these boxes?,_ thought Eckhart. He was back inside the house after sleeping overnight at the motel. He had the manila file Megan had previously given him about the deceased estate. It transpired that the owner of the house was named Mark Elliott. He died alone at 79 years of age. His employment history indicated mostly labouring jobs until his late fifties and then he seemed to have had a quiet life. He had no partner or children.

_A very lonely life indeed,_ thought Eckhart. But nothing in the file explained the photograph on the floor, which Eckhart had now placed inside a newly-purchased photo frame. _Was Mark one of the men in the photograph with the beautiful woman?_

The file certainly did not help in understanding the contents of the boxes either. There were boxes of theatre paraphernalia, costumes, and lots of rope. There were even a few boxes with large circular tins but these were jammed tight and Eckhart had no clue what was in these. There was a colourful banner as well, that read _Trapeze Trio Trailblazers_.

The newly installed doorbell rang, which was followed by a few loud knocks on the newly attached door. Eckhart had stopped looking through a box of colourful costume tights and went to open the front door.

"Hello, are you Eckhart Ashton?" said a well-built woman wearing work overalls and holding a tax invoice book. Her red hair was tied up in a pony-tail and had a very cheerful demeanour.

"Yes, and you must be Geraldine," said Eckhart. "I was expecting you. This house needs properly functioning electrical power as well as new lighting."

"Ah, I can see why you called me. It's never good to be powerless," said Geraldine. "This is a very old house! It's time to update this place to the 21st century, I reckon."

Eckhart gave Geraldine a tour of the house and pointed out the crackling switch.

"Stand back, Eckhart. That's extremely dangerous. We need to assess this situation from a safe distance," said Geraldine. "I'll have that fixed for you. Where's the fuse box?"

"I think it's right out at the back of the house," said Eckhart, walking out to the backyard. He pointed out to Geraldine a heavily rusted fuse box. She carefully lifted the lid and whistled.

"What a shocker. This screams fire hazard. The electrical wiring and the fuse box needs to be replaced. I can also install the latest technology which prevents surges and acts swiftly in electrical emergencies," said Geraldine. "It's also important for any home to be empowered and self-sustaining. That's why I highly recommend a state-of-the art battery system. If anything goes wrong, you will still have an inner source of power that no-one can take from you. You also don't want to give your power over to anyone else."

"Yes, sounds good," said Eckhart.

"And for the lights, would you also like a warm white or cool white lighting?"

"I'm not sure. Which would you recommend?" asked Eckhart.

"I'd go for the warm white lighting for a welcoming feel. Adding warmth to the place can't hurt. You happy with that suggestion?" said Geraldine

"Yes, again," said Eckhart.

Geraldine went back into the house and did another inspection for the purpose of preparing a quote for Eckhart. She wrote down details in an A4-sized invoice book. When she finished writing she handed the quote over to Eckhart, who read the quote and nodded, agreeing with the fees.

"You can start as soon as possible," confirmed Eckhart.

"Well, I'll drop by in a few days and start the rewiring of the electrical system as well as installation of the battery system," said Geraldine. "So, Eckhart. What do you for work?"

"Oh, I'm kind of unemployed at the moment. I left Sydney and came here to start afresh," said Eckhart.

"Well, I hope you find a career that is rewarding for you. You don't need to prove yourself to anybody," said Geraldine with an encouraging smile. "You have a girlfriend living here with you?"

Eckhart was taken aback. He thought it was self-evident he was attracted to guys. Maybe he came across as an average guy in his mid-thirties.

"I'm single at the moment," said Eckhart with a sad face.

"I'm single too, but I enjoy being single, if you know what I mean," said Geraldine as she tightened her pony-tail.

"I'm not sure you can put the words "enjoy" and "single" in the same sentence," said Eckhart.

"Oh, Eckhart, everything will turn out okay. The day will come for you eventually. They say you should plan for the future regardless of whether or not you have a partner," said Geraldine. "Me, I'm having the time of my life, with my nieces and nephews, plus my three cats."

"That sounds busy!" said Eckhart.

"Oh, boy it is! Well, it was nice meeting you and I'll come back to boost your power within the next few days. Cheers."

### Chapter 10

Margot

Margot was sitting in her office, distracted by her thoughts. She knew her job was now on the line. It seemed she could win herself back into Michael Guerdon's favour if only she found Fiona and retrieved the $5 million. She got up from her desk and went over to speak to Theodore.

"Theodore, you know Michael's very unhappy about the Fiona situation," said Margot. "I've hit a dead-end with Fiona's personnel file. She listed a rental as a home address but she moved somewhere else two years ago. So I don't know where she's been living since. Did you ever socialise with Fiona? Maybe outside of work?"

"Not really. Apart from small talk, I didn't know Fiona that well. I may have had a few longer chats with Fiona at the after-work drinks, but we haven't had those for a while. We mainly just spoke about work matters," said Theodore.

"The after-work drinks? Did she ever bring anyone else with her? Sometimes staff bring their partners or friends to these drinks," said Margot.

"Not that I'm aware of. Oh wait, I think she brought a boyfriend last year but I'm not sure if they're still together," said Theodore.

Margot felt a glimmer of hope rise again inside. She faintly recalled a tall and broad-shouldered Indian man who grew up in the United Kingdom.

"Yes, you're right. He was a vet, wasn't he?" said Margot.

"I'm not sure, but he was quite well-built," said Theodore.

"I just need to remember his name," said Margot, placing a hand against her forehead. "He mentioned that he worked in an animal hospital near where he lived. Was it Wahroonga or Warrawee? My brain is saying Wahroonga."

"I'm not really sure," said Theodore.

"I'll go to Wahroonga now," said Margot. "If Michael is looking for me, inform him that I'm trying to find out more information about Fiona. There's a high chance they could be living together."

Margot retrieved her handbag and left the office. She hailed a taxi and gave the address of an animal hospital in Wahroonga. On arrival at the animal hospital she paid and thanked the driver and hoped for the best. She walked tentatively into the foyer and smiled at the receptionist. Emma was the name affixed to the receptionist's blouse.

"Good morning. How may I help you," greeted Emma. Margot looked around and hoped to see a vet walk by in the vicinity. _No luck,_ Margot thought. She thought quickly on the spot for a reason for why she was at the animal hospital.

"I heard you offer pet adoption?" said Margot.

"We sure do," said Emma. "Which animal were you hoping to adopt?"

"I've always considered myself to be a dog-lover," said Margot, glancing around the office. _Still no luck._

"Well here are the brochures. The application form is on this page here," said Emma pointing to the relevant page. Then the man Margot was hoping to see walked into the reception area.

"Sorry to interrupt, Emma, but can you make a photocopy of these reports please?" said the man. He gave a quick look to Margot and a flicker of recognition passed across his face and beautiful hazel eyes.

"Sure, Dr Singh," said Emma and she looked at Margot apologetically. "I'll be back in a moment. Shouldn't take too long."

Emma left the reception area.

"Hello, I think I know you, but I'm not sure from where," said Dr Singh.

"My name is Margot and I was Fiona's supervisor. We met at a work drinks last year. I believe you are Fiona's boyfriend," said Margot as her eyes looked at the man's lapel badge, Dr Alan Singh.

"Were. Fiona and I broke up a couple of months ago. It happened out of the blue. We had this great holiday in Queensland, but afterwards something had changed in her. It's like she became a different person." said Dr Singh.

"Did something happen in Queensland?" asked Margot.

"We just had your typical holiday. Walked along several beaches, dined out at a few restaurants and visited a rainforest. Is she alright? Is she no longer working with you?" asked Dr Singh.

"Fiona is no longer working at our law firm. I was wondering where I could catch her, I mean, find her," said Margot. "So she hasn't kept in touch with you at all?"

"No contact at all. I wish I could help you, but I have no further news. She broke up with me and she said she preferred to explore her independence," said Dr Singh. "It was a very clean break."

Margot's face dropped again. Fiona was proving very elusive and damn too sneaky.

"Looks like I'm back at square one. Well, if you do hear from Fiona, please contact me. Here's my business card," said Margot, handing over her embossed business card.

"Sure, will do," said Dr Singh, accepting the card. "If it's of any help, check out the Twist & Squat Fitness Centre in the CBD. Fiona went there on most evenings. You've tried calling her mobile?"

"Yes, her voice message bank is full and cannot take any more messages," said Margot.

Emma returned to the reception area. She handed the paperwork over to Dr Singh.

"Well, good luck, Margot," said Dr Singh with a nod and he left reception.

"Sorry to keep you waiting," said Emma to Margot. Emma then explained the pet adoption procedure and Margot soon left the animal hospital with a paper bag filled with brochures.

Margot opted to walk to the train station, rather than catch a taxi. She walked down the train station's steps and sat down to wait for the next train into the city. Margot sighed unhappily. She then noticed to her left there was a dreadlocked man performing handstands on the platform. _How strange,_ thought Margot. Her thoughts returned to the matter at hand. She knew where the Twist & Squat Fitness Centre was located. It was only a block away from Wynyard train station. The city-bound train then approached and Margot stood up. The dreadlocked man did not enter the train carriage but was now performing cartwheels. Margot looked away, closed her eyes and had a mini nap for the remainder of the trip. Once the train reached Wynyard, Margot alighted from the train carriage and wove through the crowds of people to finally exit the train station. She had to negotiate walking past a female busker, demonstrating her juggling skills with enthusiastic energy.

Margot walked the short distance to Twist & Squat Fitness Centre. The entry glass doors opened automatically and she saw gym bunnies everywhere. Super fit women and men sauntered about with over-brimming confidence. Margot felt very out of place in her work attire. She walked to the front desk.

"Hey there! How may I help?," said a young and buff man wearing a lycra bicycle suit.

"Hello, Gavin," said Margot, reading his name on his work lanyard. "I was wondering if I could find any friends of Fiona Fern. I believe Fiona came here frequently."

"Oh, I know Fiona. Is everything okay with her? She hasn't been here for a while," said Gavin. "Even the class instructors have been asking after Fiona. They like her a lot because she's physically very flexible. She usually comes here on most evenings, so maybe she is on holidays? I know she was looking forward to visiting tropical Queensland a few months ago but maybe she has gone on vacation again?"

Margot knew she had reached a dead-end. She folded her arms. _They don't know anything either,_ thought Margot.

Margot turned to leave but slowed down as soon as she saw the timetables of classes on a large notice board. There was a dizzying array of classes. They included, but were not limited to, burlesque, spin class, zumba, belly dance, circus arts, boxing, boot camp, aerial rope, and pole dancing. Margot walked back to the front desk.

"Gavin, do you know which of those classes Fiona took part?" asked Margot, pointing to the notice board.

"Let me see," said Gavin leaning over the front desk. "Fiona did burlesque, aerial rope, pole dancing and circus arts."

Margot looked at the noticeboard again and sighed. This information did not tell her anything about Fiona's whereabouts. Margot looked at her watch and returned to her office with a firmly pursed mouth.

### Chapter 11

De Bonheur Travelling Circus @ Bunbury, Western Australia

Blanche was pacing up and down backstage while Alexia Flexia was entertaining the crowd. The De Bonheur Circus was now set up in Bunbury, a two-hour drive south of Perth. Also standing backstage was the next act, Aria de Cieling. Aria was wearing a shiny silver full body suit and had cascading curly black hair intertwined with silver ribbons. She was wearing glittery silver face paint.

"Are you okay?" asked Aria, sensing Blanche's restlessness. Blanche was now tossing the top hat up into the air and dropped the hat a few times.

"Nothing for you to worry about. Look at you! So beautiful. You remind me of when I was a young woman," said Blanche. "Oh, I can't start crying, it'll mess up my make-up."

Blanche placed the top hat back on her hat and closed her eyes.

"Here, I have a tissue," said Aria, who retrieved a tissue from the sleeve of her bodysuit. Blanche tilted her head back and with the tissue, stemmed the small tears from running down her face.

"I guess you still think about your days of being a part of the trapeze trio," said Aria sympathetically.

"Yes, every day. I feel so guilty. I've never forgiven myself for what I've done," said Blanche. The audience then gave a big cheer. "Looks, like Alexia has ended her act. I'll go and introduce you now."

Blanche took a deep breath, shivered herself into the present, and stepped back out into the spotlight.

"Everybody let's give Alexia Flexia another round of applause," said Blanche and the crowd clapped again. "Now let me introduce to you the next act by the aerial extraordinaire, Aria de Cieling. Be prepared to be transported and blown away, as Aria takes to the air!"

Aria then walked out onto the stage with a big smile. The technical staff lowered a safety harness from the open rigging affixed to the roof of the Big Top and Aria fastened the harness firmly around her waist. The technical staff also lowered the trapeze swing so that it reached Aria. Once Aria secured her grip on the trapeze swing, the technical staff brought the trapeze up into the air and Aria was now flying.

Blanche returned backstage and peered up at Aria's swinging, pendulum-like performance. Soon Blanche was reminiscing about her time in the trapeze trio.

1966

"Are we all set to go?" asked Magnus Eyre. He clapped his hands together and then roughed up his sandy-blonde hair.

The Trapeze Trio Trailblazers were getting ready to perform to an enthusiastic Melbourne audience.

"I am. We're all sorted on the order of tricks?" asked Blanche as she tightened her long dark hair into a ponytail.

"Yes. The audience are going to be captivated," said Anchor Caspian, doing warm-up stretches with his muscular arms.

"Of course they'll be. You're the star of the show, Anchor," said Blanche.

"Oh, I don't know about that. Your name is the one bringing the big crowds in," said Anchor.

"The family name does that for you," said Blanche.

"I agree with Blanche. I think you're the real star of the show, Anchor. I can hear the audience gasp when you pirouette. It's like time slows down and they're watching you in slow motion. They can't believe that a triple pirouette is even possible," said Magnus. "It's a pleasure working with you, Anchor."

"Ah, that's so kind of you," said Anchor and he gave Magnus a hug.

Blanche felt a bit left out.

"I think you're a pleasure to work with as well, Anchor," said Blanche.

"Ah, I'll give you a hug as well," said Anchor with a laugh as he gave Blanche a hug. "I don't want you both fighting over me."

"Only when you're not around," joked Magnus.

"It's true," said Blanche with a laugh. "We're both in love with you."

An announcement was made by Blanche's father, the ringmaster, who was about to introduce the trapeze trio.

"That's us, we better get going," said Blanche.

Anchor and Magnus gave each other a meaningful look. They then ran out onto the ringside stage, waving to a rapturous audience.

Blanche waited a few seconds for her name to be called out. She was the last trio member to turn up on the stage due to her popularity. She took a few deep breaths. Her name was finally announced and she ran out into the spotlight to join Anchor and Magnus.

### Chapter 12

Charlie

"Not again!" said Grace as she ran up to the facade of the Inner Strength Circus Arts School. She absorbed the fresh graffiti.

This time the message read, "FUCK YOU CHARLIE".

"Now this just got personal," said Grace to herself with amazement. She realised the graffiti was not committed by a random person. It was someone who had known Charlie. There was no doubt about it. The offender was someone Charlie knew very well.

Grace turned her head as she saw Charlie drive into the school's car park and reverse park. Charlie glanced at the school through the windscreen and then rested his head on the steering wheel in disbelief for a few seconds. He reluctantly got out of his car.

"Fuck!" said Charlie as he approached the graffiti.

"Yes that's what it says. Well, we better get inside. All the performers will be arriving shortly to audition for the performance with the De Bonheur Travelling Circus," said Grace.

"I'll clean up after the auditions. I don't have time to clean this up now," said Charlie.

Grace opened the school's front door and deactivated the alarm. They both walked into the reception area.

"I'll welcome the auditionees. Here's the running order," said Grace as she handed over to Charlie a sheet of paper from her desk.

"Thanks, Grace. I'll get the auditorium space ready," said Charlie as he went on his way to the auditorium, massaging his forehead in frustration.

He pushed through the double doors to the auditorium and started to check that all the equipment was ready on stage. Once everything was set up and ready to go, Charlie chose the best seat to view the auditions and sat down.

Grace then appeared on stage holding a clipboard.

"Charlie, all the acts have now arrived and they're ready to go. I now have the first act on standby. Her name is Cherry Floss," said Grace and she stepped back into the side of the stage, where the audio-visual equipment was located. Grace began playing an upbeat and light pop music track.

A woman in her late thirties walked on-stage. She had long light pink hair and was wearing a costume inspired by fairy floss. She brought twenty hula hoops onto the stage and was soon hula hooping five hoops over different parts of her body. Grace then walked onto the stage and started throwing the remaining hoops onto Cherry Floss, until she was spinning twenty hula hoops all at once in a whirling frenzy, not dropping a single hula hoop in the process. The music stopped and Cherry Floss stopped spinning the hula hoops. They clanked down onto the stage floor.

Charlie and Grace both clapped.

"Thank you Cherry Floss," said Charlie. "That was a fun performance. Well done."

"My pleasure," said Cherry as she collected the twenty hula hoops and walked off stage.

"Alright, now for act two. His name is Mr Ropeable," said Grace as she pointed to the aerial silk suspended from the ceiling. This was a long piece of fabric looped through the top point in the rigging so that the material came down in two separate strands. Grace walked back into the wing and started to play a heavy metal music track.

A young man with wild red hair rushed onto the stage in time with the music. He was wearing what appeared to be a leopard print speedo and a leopard print vest to match. He was climbing the silk, wrapping himself around with the silk several times to perform very flexible poses in the air. He performed a number of tricks, including tumbling down the silk as well as being suspended in the air doing the splits. Mr Ropeable was certainly showing off his agility and strength.

The music track stopped as Mr Ropeable tumbled all the way down but just short of hitting the stage floor. The man bounced up and bowed after his performance.

"Thank you Mr Ropeable," said Charlie with several claps as Mr Ropeable walked off stage.

"Next we have something a little more unusual," said Grace as she looked at her clipboard. "The lights are going to be turned down. Here is Gina Groove."

Grace dimmed the lights and started to play an electronic dance track with a throbbing bass.

In the dark, a woman wearing glo-bright orange, yellow and green clothes appeared. Even her hair was a glo-bright purple. She was circulating glow-in-the-dark neon-coloured juggling batons into the air. There were three, four, five and six batons. The batons then began to change colours, and were juggled in a variety of rows and formations. Under the leg, and over the back. The music track ended and Grace returned the lights back to their normal wattage.

"Thank you Gina," said Charlie. "That was very technicolour!"

Gina Groove gave a bow and walked off the stage.

"And now, we have the Toppling Twins," said Grace. Back in the wing, she played a quirky percussion track.

A pair of female identical twins walked onto the stage wearing sailor uniforms. They performed a comical routine that involved feats of physical balance and clowning about. They lifted each other through their strength and determination. They ended their piece with an eccentric dance routine.

"Very funny," chuckled Charlie as he and Grace clapped at the Toppling Twins. They gave a very lopsided bow and left the stage.

"And finally, the last act. We have the Death-Defying Duo," said Grace. She then played a suspenseful track with strings.

A bear of a man in his early fifties, who had a shaved head and salt-and-pepper beard, walked onto the stage. He was pushing a big box/trolley contraption. He motioned to the box and pointed out its physical properties. It was a three-dimensional box about two metres in length, one metre in height and one metre in depth. This box was about half a metre off the ground and was on wheels. Each edge was covered so you could only see through the front and back of the box. Then a younger and skinny man walked onto the stage with a flounce. He climbed into the box and blew Charlie a kiss. The older man then pulled down the blinds on the front and back of the box. From underneath the box, the older man brought out several metal swords. He was soon pushing these all the way through the different sides of the box. He rotated the box around to show that the box had indeed been punctured from all angles. Then he pulled the swords out and lifted up the blinds. The box was completely empty. The older man rotated the box a few times to prove that the younger man had disappeared from the box. Then the older man pulled the blinds back down and spun the box around a few time. When the front blind was raised this time, the younger man had reappeared.

"Very good," laughed Charlie as the two men bowed down at the end of their performance. They nodded at Charlie, held hands and left the stage together along with the magical box.

"So that's everyone, I'm just going to thank the performers and help them find their way out," said Grace and she disappeared.

Charlie looked down at the notes he made and reviewed his comments. The criteria he used was creativity, enthusiasm, how they engaged with the audience and their stage presence.

Grace returned to the auditorium and plonked herself down next to Charlie.

"So what did you think? Who were your top picks?" asked Grace.

"I thought the Toppling Twins were very funny. What about you?" asked Charlie.

"All the acts were very good," said Grace. "But I think you're right. The Toppling Twins were fun to watch."

"Then, that's agreed," said Charlie. "They're going to perform with the De Bonheur Circus in Adelaide!"

"Awesome. I'll send an email to the Toppling Twins congratulating them. I love giving good news," said Grace.

"And you'll need to notify the other unsuccessful acts as well," said Charlie.

"Oh, that sucks. No-one likes to break the bad news," said Grace as her face dropped. Charlie patted her on the shoulder.

Charlie and Grace switched off the auditorium lights and headed back to reception. Charlie went to the store room but saw only empty bottles of cleaning products.

"Grace, we've run out of the cleaning products. I'm heading back to Bunnings. Let me check if I have enough cash on me," said Charlie, opening his wallet. His wallet was empty.

6 months ago

An empty wallet again. Charlie threw his wallet down in frustration. This has got to stop happening, thought Charlie. He knew that he had $100 in his wallet. Two $50 notes. He was not imagining their disappearance.

Flynn must have sneaked into his wallet before he left for work early this morning.

Charlie called Flynn's mobile. The mobile rang out and Charlie left a message.

"Flynn, I've told you time and time again to stop going through my wallet. I'm not made of money" said Charlie and he hung up. Still feeling angry with Flynn, Charlie decided to talk to Flynn at his workplace. Charlie did an internet search to find the phone number for Contour Aerosol Paints and called the number.

"Good morning. Welcome to Contour Aerosol Paints. This is Jeanine speaking. How may I help you?

"Hi Jeanine, Is Flynn there?" asked Charlie.

"Yes, he's sitting at his desk. May I ask what matter you are calling about?" asked Jeanine.

"Just a general accounts enquiry," said Charlie.

"Sure, I'll just put you on hold," said Jeanine and Charlie was soon listening to a soothing piece of classical music, Mozart's "Rondo". The music then stopped.

"Hello. Flynn speaking," said Flynn.

"Flynn, this is Charlie. What did you do with the hundred dollars?" said Charlie.

"Charlie, I'm at work! You can't call me here. I'll pay you back later. I just needed the money to pay for my monthly credit card repayment," said Flynn.

"I know you never pay me back," said Charlie.

"Charlie, you know that I'm in a lot of debt. You've already told me I shouldn't have put the holidays with my ex-boyfriend on my credit card. I get that. But I thought we were supposed to help each other out. Anyway, I've got to get some work done now. I'll talk to you about it when I get back after work. You own your warehouse, so I hardly think you're poor."

" _Flynn, for over 20 years I worked my arse off saving up. I did so many hours of overtime as a warehouse store person. The warehouse didn't just fall into my lap. I bought it outright when it was for sale at an affordable price," said Charlie. "You know what? You don't have to pay me back."_

"You've changed your mind?" said Flynn uncertainly.

"Yeah. And don't bother coming back. I'm going to drop off all of your stuff at your mum's place. You and I? We're over. Have a great day," said Charlie and he ended the call.

### Chapter 13

Eckhart

Eckhart sighed loudly to himself. He was sitting in the empty bedroom of the old house, perusing the pages of a number of furniture catalogues, which were spread out across the floor. His mind had wandered back to the disappointments and bad memories he had in Sydney.

"Stay focused," said Eckhart to himself as he realised his mind was distracted from the task of picking out ideas for the bathroom and kitchen. His mind had become a stormy tempest of past regrets and worry for the future. Eckhart could not find the discipline to be calm and just enjoy the present moment.

The doorbell rang, which at least interrupted Eckhart being stuck in his head. He scrambled up from the bedroom and went to open the front door.

"G'day," said a moustachioed man in his mid-fifties. He wore a navy polo shirt and jeans. He had a slightly protuberant belly.

"Hello, you must be Aaron, the plumber," greeted Eckhart, opening the front door wider. "Come in."

"The graffiti tags out the front are a shocker. You must have bought this house on the cheap." said Aaron.

"Yes, I did," answered Eckhart. "But the renovations will hopefully restore the house to a happier time."

"I hope so, too. Are you an Adelaide local?" asked Aaron.

"Not yet," said Eckhart. "I moved here from Sydney."

"How come you left Sydney?" asked Aaron, holding his chin. "My daughter loves living in Sydney. She has a well-paying job and really enjoys the nightlife there."

"Oh, I needed a change. I just felt kind of stuck in Sydney," said Eckhart with a shrug of his shoulders.

"Ah, I see," said Aaron, glancing around the house. "Well this house has character. So you wanted a quote for a total overhaul of the house for water and plumbing?"

"That's right. Let me show you the kitchen," said Eckhart, leading Aaron to the kitchen.

"Very spacious kitchen you have here," said Aaron as he saw the chipped benches, missing drawers, torn wallpaper and missing cupboard doors. He walked over to the sink and loosened the taps. No water came out.

"And over here is the bathroom," said Eckhart, pointing Aaron towards the bathroom.

"That's an ancient bathroom!" said Aaron. The bathroom was missing tiles, had cracks in the bathtub and the glass shower screen was smashed. He noticed the very old cistern. He went over to the bathroom sink to turn the taps on. Again, no water came out.

Eckhart took Aaron over to the laundry room to check the taps and again, there was no water flowing from the taps.

"You have a major blockage problem in the house," said Aaron. "That's not good at all. It's important to have free-flow of water to all access points. You don't want to have blockage of any sort at all, do you?," said Aaron.

Eckhart shook his head.

"The only thing you should be blocking out is the past," said Aaron with a chuckle. "Looks like the house hasn't had its pipes cleaned out for a long time. Time for a new change. Out with the old and in with the new. You'll need a completely new water heating system as well."

Eckhart nodded his head and then remembered the catalogues in the bedroom.

"Here are some of the ideas I have," said Eckhart as he showed Aaron the furniture catalogues in the bedroom.

"So, you're going for a minimalist white and blue colour combination?" said Aaron.

"That's the look I'm after. Maybe with a Chinoiserie influence? Or will that come across as pretentious? I hope my taste won't offend any guests" said Eckhart.

Aaron turned to face Eckhart with a look of kindness.

"You can do whatever you like within reason, Eckhart. It's your house. I wouldn't waste a second worrying if other people will like your style choices or not," said Aaron, placing his hand on Eckhart's shoulder. "I can't emphasise strongly enough, you've got to stop pleasing people. There's no need to explain yourself. Just do whatever make you happy."

Eckhart was taken aback.

"I'll write up a quote and send it to you over the next day or so. This will be a big project," said Aaron as he beamed at Eckhart, who could not help but smile back.

### Chapter 14

Margot

"Margot, can you come into my office please?" said Michael Guerdon as he stood in the doorway of Margot's office.

Margot stopped reading a specific tax ruling and glanced up at Michael Guerdon's severe face. She stood up and followed Michael to his office where they both sat down. Michael interlaced his fingers together, his elbows positioned on his desk.

"Margot, we have just lost Surface-Under as a client. Did you also read this?" asked Michael. He pushed a Sydney business newspaper towards Margot on the desk. The headline read _"Surface-Under to restructure: 5,000 jobs to be slashed."_

"Yes, I read that article this morning," said Margot. "They mustn't have healthy capital reserves to support the business long-term."

"That's none of our business. And you know what? Because of this debacle we've had to transfer their files to a competitor law firm, Kulte Diffey Limey Cee Lawyers. Do you know how embarrassing that is?" said Michael. "I'm sorry to do this but this law firm is firing you. Yesterday, I reported Fiona's theft of $5 million from Elonzo Guerdon Orlege Lawyers trust accounts to the police. She will now officially be a wanted person. I haven't mentioned Surface-Under to the police due to confidentiality. But our law firm is going to get negative publicity because of this."

"What if the money turns up?" said Margot as she folded her arms.

"We're never going to see that money again. And you know why?" said Michael. "The Police advised me with an update this afternoon. After they placed a summary of the theft on their social media news page, they received an anonymous telephone tip-off that Fiona was seen a while ago at the Casino in Melbourne. They're checking out the CCTV footage there. She's probably lost the all the money there."

"I don't recall Fiona being a gambler," said Margot.

"Well, we don't have a clue who she is, it seems," said Michael crossly. "Please pack up your belongings and leave within the next hour. I'll handle the police enquiries on your behalf. You can leave now."

Margot already knew there was a high chance she was going to be sacked. She left Michael's office without another word and went to find a spare cardboard box in the documents team area. She then started to empty her office.

"I just overheard that you're leaving," said Theodore as he stopped outside Margot's office.

Margot nodded as she took down her framed qualifications from her office wall.

"That's really unfair. It's not your fault that Surface-Under transferred the incorrect amount," said Theodore.

"It is what it is, Theodore," said Margot without emotion. "Now, I've got to get packing, I only have another 45 minutes left. I don't want to be seen escorted out by security."

Theodore walked up to Margot to give her a hug but he stopped, sensing that Margot did not want any physical contact at this point in time.

"If it helps I think you've done a really good job. People respect you for your legal knowledge," said Theodore.

"Well, clearly not everyone does," said Margot, now emptying her desk's drawers.

Theodore did not know what else to say.

"Well, all the best for the future," said Theodore and he walked out of the office.

Margot placed all her belongings into the box and left her security pass on her empty desk. She picked up the box and mustered up as much dignity and stoicism as she could and did not look back as she exited the law firm. She caught a taxi and was soon on her way to her home in Dover Heights.

Once inside her house, Margot poured herself a glass of red wine in the living area and sat down on her plush white sofa.

_What am I going to do?,_ thought Margot as she rested one arm over her head. She saw the bottle of red wine and looked at the label. _Product of South Australia._

She placed her wine glass down on the coffee table and retrieved her mobile phone. She called the only direct family she had, who happened to live in Adelaide, South Australia.

"Hi Laura, it's Margot here,"

"Oh my goodness, I know who you are! It's my little sister Margie! I haven't heard from you in ages! How's life treating you?

"It's kind of a long story. But basically, I've lost my job. I got fired. Nothing I did could make them happy," said Margot.

"Oh," said Laura. There was a long pause. "I know how much your career means to you."

"How's Adelaide," said Margot, changing the subject.

"Oh, it's great. It's very different o living in Sydney. Adelaide feels more laidback. What else? Well you know Nicole has grown up. She's studying nursing at university," said Laura. "Look, why don't you come over to Adelaide? There's a guest room I can make available for you. You can stay as long as you like."

"I'll think about it," said Margot. "I'm really tired now. Might catch up on some sleep now."

"Well, I hope you're all right. My offer for you to come live with me stands," said Laura.

"Okay, Laura," said Margot. She ended the call and fell into a deep sleep.

### Chapter 15

De Bonheur Travelling Circus @ Margaret River, Western Australia

"I should now have all the materials in this box," said Estelle, a tall and strong woman with aqua-dyed cropped hair. Estelle was ensuring she had all the padlocks, ropes, chains and cable ties needed for her act. "I hope we don't repeat what happened last night."

"Oh Estelle, I'm so sorry about the mix-up," said Blanche. "Clearly my mind wasn't up to the task. I'll remember to place the rope around you before I put the chains on you."

"Yes, please. I barely managed to escape last night." said Estelle.

"Well sounds like Aria is finishing up her routine," said Blanche as she heard the climax of Aria's sound track. "I'll be introducing you shortly."

As the music track finished, Blanche walked out onto the stage.

"That was Aria de Cieling, everyone. Let's give her another round of applause," cheered Blanche. The audience responded accordingly.

"Now, the next act is someone who you want to be with in a tricky situation. She can work her way out of difficult situations! She certainly inspires me, with her message that you can escape any situation if you put your mind and body to it. Are you ready to see her escape? Then let's welcome Estelle, the Escapologist!" said Blanche and the audience applauded.

Then Blanche began to start wrapping up Estelle with the cable ties, ropes, chains and padlocks. It was up to Estelle to work her way out of the predicament she now found herself in.

Blanche looked out at the crowd as they cheered while Estelle moved frenetically to free herself from the different restraints.

_There are some things you can't escape in life,_ thought Blanche as she saw Estelle wrestle finally free. _Heartbreak._

1967

"So, are we across the new sequence of tricks? I've switched a few tricks around and added a few new tricks as well," said Blanche.

Anchor Caspian and Magnus Eyres nodded. They were ready to perform to a Sydney crowd this evening.

The trio waited backstage waiting for their introduction.

"You're looking really beautiful," said Anchor to Blanche as he touched the sewn flowers on the shoulder part of her costume. Blanche had her hair done up a Spanish-style bun and had beautifully painted red lips and mascaraed eyes.

"Keep the compliments coming," said Blanche.

Anchor laughed, tilting his head back and showing a beautiful smile, his white teeth gleaming.

Now that smile could melt the arctic caps, thought Blanche.

Anchor leant forward to Blanche's face.

" _You smell wonderful, too. I love the scent of April violets," whispered Anchor._

Oh, to kiss those beautiful lips, thought Blanche, as she gazed longingly at Anchor's succulent red lips. Her eyes drifted down to Anchor's exposed and bountiful pecs.

"Let's go!" said Magnus as he interrupted Blanche's reverie. Magnus slapped Anchor on his muscular right buttock and ventured out onto the stage. Anchor shot an amused look to Blanche as he followed Magnus out onto the stage. Blanche then heard her name called out and she launched herself into the familiar spotlight.

Magnus climbed the rickety stairs to the left of the trapeze apparatus, while Blanche and Anchor climbed the steps of the ladder to the right. Magnus got himself settled onto the trapeze swing and was soon waiting for their act to begin.

The music began to play and Blanche launched herself gracefully on the trapeze and with concentration flew through the air. She let go off the trapeze and was caught by Magnus. They did their double pendulum arc, and Magnus then released Blanche, who did a somersault and caught the swinging trapeze on her return. The audience clapped. Anchor performed the same trick as Blanche but this time did a single pirouette before catching the returning trapeze swing.

The trio's act was going well, until halfway during their performance. Magnus had caught Anchor and after their double pendulum arc, Magnus released Anchor. Anchor completed a triple pirouette but just missed the returning trapeze swing. And Anchor was falling. He prepared for the fall in the netting area but somehow bounced out at an unexpected angle and landed on the hard surface outside the netting area.

The audience gasped.

Blanche clambered down the ladder and raced towards Anchor. Her father was already there and several people were on their way to make a telephone call for the ambulance.

When Blanche reached to where Anchor lay, she could see that he was unconscious. She went into shock. Magnus soon ran up to be by Anchor's side.

"Anchor! Anchor, wake up!" said Magnus, tears splashing down his cheeks.

### Chapter 16

Charlie

"I just wanted to say how proud I am of all of you. You're all extremely fast learners!" said Charlie.

Eckhart, Megan, Vernon, Isabella and Arnaud were all looking exhausted, sweaty and happy that the training session had ended. They had graduated to the actual swinging trapeze apparatus.

"I'm definitely going to get bruises," said Isabella.

"Well, if you hadn't released too early, we wouldn't have collided," said Arnaud. "I'm going to get bruises too."

"I thought it was a good workout," said Vernon. "I love the swinging feeling, especially how I can use strength through my body. My boyfriend has said he's noticed my body becoming more muscular. He's saying I should never give up my trapeze classes. What about you Eckhart? Are you enjoying the classes?"

"I think so. Getting used to falling is possibly helping me with my fear of heights and flying," said Eckhart.

"Yes, I made you drop down from the trapeze at least ten times," said Charlie. "It gives you a bit of exposure to your fear. Falling down onto the netting will give you the familiarity of that experience and it won't seem like the worst thing in the world. Although, I think Megan didn't have to laugh all the time."

Eckhart could see that Megan was having difficulty following the group discussion. He knew it was because they had all been speaking very quickly.

"Charlie thinks you were laughing too much at me, when I kept falling down," Eckhart explained to Megan in a normal rate of speech.

"Oh that. I'm really sorry but I couldn't help it! You were screaming every time you let go of the trapeze. I didn't think guys could give out such high-pitched screams," said Megan, before laughing again. "Sorry, it was just so funny."

"Well, thanks everyone. I'll see you next time," said Charlie.

The group waved and walked to leave the school. Charlie smiled to himself. That class had been a lot of fun.

Then Charlie's smile faded. Earlier in the day there had been a new graffiti marking. This time the message was: "LYIN'-TAMER, YOU"LL NEVER TAME ME!". As soon as Charlie saw this, he gave a loud groan. _These graffitied messages are neither kind, true nor necessary,_ thought Charlie. He went to get the cleaning products and started cleaning the message off as soon as possible.

Charlie returned his thoughts to the present and was tidying up the training area, when his mobile phone buzzed. He had received a text message from Grace. She was rostered to hand out flyers at Adelaide Station. Her message was _"Looks familiar?"_. The text was accompanied by a photograph. The photograph appeared to have been taken at a road-works site. There were brightly-coloured and spray-painted markings all over the road. These were unintelligible markings with arrows, numbers and specific acronyms. There were bright pink markings that read _"Electric"_ amongst the numbers and letters.

_It does look incredibly familiar,_ thought Charlie. The writing resembled the same scraggly style of lettering found on the circus arts school.

Charlie's phone buzzed again. This time Grace sent through another photograph, but from a broader perspective. Charlie could see a couple of construction workers going about their busy work. _And was that...?,_ thought Charlie as he zoomed into one of the workers in the photograph. Charlie's stomach did a nervous flip as he realised that his past was catching up with him. _Yes, it was Brendan._

### Chapter 17

Eckhart

The doorbell rang. Eckhart roused himself from a long sleep. He had taken to living in the house, now that the power and water was restored. As the water was now connected, Eckhart had spent the previous week removing the tagged graffiti off the sandstone facade with water and the use of a wooden scraper.

Eckhart remembered that today the painter was going to check out the house and give a quote. He felt a nervous feeling in his stomach. The house had improved drastically and he could not believe how well the renovations were coming along.

The doorbell rang again. Eckhart realised he did not have time to change into proper clothes and swore. He got up from the sleeping bag and walked to the front door.

"Hello, you must be Eckhart," said a tall man in his early forties. He had a kind face and was wearing jeans and a well-fitted white T-shirt that showed he kept in good shape.

"Yes, that's me," said Eckhart.

"I'm Daniel, the painter," said Daniel.

"Hello Daniel, come on in," said Eckhart, feeling very self-conscious as he was only wearing boxer briefs and a gym singlet. "I only just woke up. Sorry for you to see me like this."

"Like what?" said Daniel looking at Eckhart with slight confusion.

"I don't usually let people see me showing this much skin. I'm not exactly proud of my body," said Eckhart. "Anyway, I'll give you the tour of the house now. As you can see there are quite a few chipped sections and uneven surfaces on the wall. The white paint has yellowed in several places. I would like the wallpaper to be removed as well."

"That's doable. And the house certainly hasn't been painted for a long time. It's a good idea to get a refresher coat every ten years," said Daniel as he stopped to look in the bathroom. "The ceiling in the bathroom looks corrupted but I can fix that as well. With proper treatment and fresh new layers of paint, you'll forget it ever had been the worse for wear."

"And this is the bedroom," said Eckhart, showing Daniel the room. "I've been sleeping here. It saves me money from having to sleep at a motel."

Eckhart pointed to the sleeping bag and blankets on the floor. He flushed pink when he realised he left his large pile of magazines, which contained images of muscular men wearing not much at all, out in full sight of the painter.

Eckhart was further mortified when Daniel went over to flick through the magazines.

"These are probably doing you more harm than good," said Daniel. "Having muscles these big are a bit extreme. They must spend a small fortune on going to the gym. There should be magazines where there are a variety of body types."

Eckhart looked at his feet.

"You said you were unhappy about your body. You look fine. Just think about what the body can do, your agency, rather than what it looks like. Are you comparing yourself to these guys?" asked Daniel pointing to a photographic spread of a sweaty and muscular rugby player, who was covering his private parts with one large hand.

"But he looks really happy," said Eckhart.

"For all we know, this guy could be smiling only for the camera," said Daniel.

"I suppose that's a possibility," said Eckhart.

"These magazines search for the genetically blessed and sell images of these models to the general public. They're trying to sell you a fantasy. This is not real life," said Daniel.

"But sometimes life gets really hard and I need a fantasy to de-stress," said Eckhart.

"Well, change your situation. Focus on doing something that you enjoy," said Daniel. "If you want to feel good about yourself, these magazines aren't going to help. You're actually internalising these images and the message that you're only worth attention if you look like you go to the gym 24/7. Then you start to put yourself down, even objectify yourself, because you yourself don't look like these perfect images. We are all human beings, not objects."

"So what does it mean to be a human being?" asked Eckhart.

"To have free will, think for yourself and just be you. Maybe the question you should be asking is, regardless of looks what makes a person beautiful. To me that means they are patient and have wisdom," said Daniel, nudging Eckhart with an elbow. "You don't think I'm being too preachy, do you? I'll stop. My wife accuses me of doing this all the time."

"Maybe, just a little. But I think you're only trying to help," said Eckhart. "But don't you get distracted by physically attractive people?"

"I'm a happily married man. I don't need to look. Anne and I both like and accept each other," said Daniel "Do you like you?"

Eckhart was speechless.

"I'll stop the interrogation now," said Daniel with a smile. "I would throw those magazines out if I were you. It's important to know what's bad for you. Replace them with publications showing real people or find another interest. Opera maybe? That will get you feeling emotions again. If Jacques Offenbach's ' _Les Oiseaux dans La Charmille'_ doesn't wake you up, I don't know what else will."

Eckhart looked at the pile of magazines. Throwing the magazines away was going to be hard.

### Chapter 18

Margot

"Over here, Margie!" yelled out Laura, waving her arms behind the barrier above the ramp at Adelaide Airport.

Margot looked up at the sound of Laura's voice.

Laura was wearing a bright yellow and pink summery dress and wore a pink headband in a pale grey cropped hair-do. She was not easy to miss amongst the small crowd waiting for their arrivals. Margot nodded as she walked up the ramp.

"Welcome to Adelaide, Margie," greeted Laura as she hugged a minimally responsive Margot. "It's been years since we've met in person. It was back in Sydney, about ten years ago, wasn't it?"

"Something like that. It's been a while," said Margot.

"Did you ever find someone to house-sit for you, while you're here?" asked Laura. "You mentioned you had difficulties finding a house-sitter."

"That's all sorted. I asked a colleague from my old job if he was interested. Theodore agreed," said Margot.

"That's good to hear. Must feel very strange to have a new man in the house after your divorce twenty years ago," said Laura.

Margot glared at Laura.

"Well, I have a jam-packed day organised for you," said Laura enthusiastically.

"It better not be too much," said Margot as they walked towards the baggage collection area. "I was hoping for a bit of quiet time."

"Oh, cheer up, Margie. Why do you always have be to be so glum?" said Laura as Margot spotted her suitcase and walked over to retrieve the item. She then looked at Laura with pursed lips. Margot was just beginning to remember Laura's extremely sunny approach to life.

"I'm ready to go," said Margot. "We're heading to your place now?"

"Not just yet. I'm taking you to brunch at this wonderful pancakes cafe in Port Adelaide and then we've got to check out the extraordinary Maritime Museum. After that I've organised a wine-tasting road-trip. I won't be able to drink as I'll be driving. But you can go for it!" said Laura.

"Laura, I only just want to sleep," said Margot flatly.

"Margie, please let me look after you," said Laura. Margot shrugged.

They were both now leaving the Adelaide Airport building and Margot followed Laura into the outdoor car park. Laura placed Margot's wheelie suitcase into the rear of the sedan.

"Sit next to me," said Laura as she saw Margot was about to open the backseat door. "We can have a proper conversation that way."

"I really don't feel like talking," said Margot with a sigh and walked over to sit next to the driver's seat.

"I'll do the talking for the both us," said Laura as she started the car and made her way to exit the car park.

"Please, I prefer the peace," begged Margot.

Laura nodded and turned on the classical music radio station.

"Oh, I love this aria," said Laura as Mozart's "Der Hölle Rache" began to play. Laura then drove happily on their way to Port Adelaide.

### Chapter 19

De Bonheur Travelling Circus @ Port Augusta, South Australia

"And that was Estelle!" said Blanche as Estelle gave a bow and returned backstage. "Are we ready for our next act? Yes? Great! Who doesn't love a tightwire act? She's super talented and will have the entire audience moving to the edge of their seats. Let's welcome Daisy B. Nimble!"

Daisy danced out onto the stage, waving to the crowd. She was wearing a beautiful golden tutu, which matched the colour of her hair, and she was holding a matching parasol.

Daisy climbed up the ladder to a small platform several metres off the ground, which had a long tightwire connected to the platform opposite in the Big Top. There was netting underneath the tightwire.

Then a slow and sad piece of piano classical music began to play.

Daisy then began to walk along the tightwire, balancing precariously with her parasol. After successfully walking the full length of the tightwire she then threw her parasol away and began to walk confidently backwards. Then Daisy was jumping in the air and landing back down on the wire without losing her balance. The audience oohed and aahed. Then Daisy came to standstill and began to lift one leg high up into the air and touched this elevated leg high above her head.

Blanche looked up at Daisy, who was now dancing along the tightwire with precision, not once losing balance. Sadness came over Blanche. Her own mother had been a tightwire artiste.

1967

"I can't go, Mum," said Blanche in tears. She was sitting on the steps of the caravan that Blanche lived in with her mother and father. The circus had closed for the remainder of their Sydney leg of the tour.

"I know this is hard for you. It's hard for the rest of us too. We circus folks know that life is full of hardship and tragedy," said Eva. "Almost the whole circus have made their way to the North Sydney Chapel. They'll be expecting us."

Blanche wiped the tears from her eyes. She stood up and smoothed down her black velour dress. Eva held out her hand, which Blanche accepted.

"Let's go," said Eva.

They caught a bus and were soon on the steps of the chapel.

Blanche and Eva saw an older Mexican man and an Australian woman at the entrance to the chapel.

"They're Anchor's parents, Wendy and Francisco," said Eva quietly Blanche.

Blanche walked up to Anchor's parents.

"I'm so sorry for your loss," said Blanche and she burst into tears.

Wendy hugged Blanche and Blanche cried even harder.

"It was my fault. I changed the routine," spluttered out Blanche.

"Nonsense, it's no-one fault. It was an accident," said Wendy. "I know I haven't met you formally, but Anchor loved being in the trio. He spoke very fondly of you as well, Blanche. I've watched you as a trio. I can see that you all brought a lot of joy to the general public."

Blanche nodded to Wendy and then hugged Francisco.

Eva and Blanche then held hands and walked into the chapel. The coffin was situated in front of the altar. She could see Magnus with his hand over his face, sitting next to her father. Eva and Blanche sat several pews behind them and the mournful piano music began to play.

After the funeral, Magnus and Blanche found themselves together at the wake at Wendy's and Francisco's home.

"I can't believe he's gone," said Magnus in a hoarse voice.

"Me either," said Blanche.

"I'm going to miss him so hard. He had such a beautiful body and what a big heart he had! Every time he saw me, I could feel he was genuinely happy to see me. I lost myself in Anchor," said Magnus. "Your father's allowed me to take a few things as a memento of Anchor. I don't know where I'll go though. I'm so sorry the trio is over."

" _Me too," said Blanche._

They hugged each other and Magnus walked away.

Blanche never saw Magnus again after the wake. It was an unspoken agreement that the Trapeze Trio Trailblazers could not continue, even with new members. Blanche had often wondered what happened to him.

_Was he still alive or did he pass away?,_ wondered Blanche.

She could not continue with the circus either. She focused on becoming a theatre actress and decided to stay in Sydney. It was only when both her parents had died in their old age, six months of each other, that the future of De Bonheur Circus fell into her hands. She was very tempted to close the circus down for good, but decided to keep touring when she realised people's livelihoods depended on the circus.

Blanche's mind returned to the present as she realised that Daisy's act was about to conclude. _I must stop living in the past,_ thought Blanche to herself, as she swept onto the stage while the audience applauded Daisy's performance.

### Chapter 20

Charlie

Charlie sat patiently at a table in a fine dining restaurant on trendy King William Road, Unley. He was tapping his fingers on the table, which was for a booking for three people. Charlie was unsure whether he had made the right decision to meet Brendan again.

The front door of the restaurant opened and Charlie looked up. Brendan had just walked in. Charlie nodded and Brendan walked over to the table.

"What's this about?," asked Brendan.

"Have a seat. I just wanted to catch up with you. See how you were going," said Charlie.

"Well, I only came because I have the day off and you're paying for dinner," said Brendan as he sat down opposite Charlie.

"Yes, that's right," said Charlie. "So, how are things?"

"What do you care?" said Brendan in a curt tone, before softening his voice. "Same old, same old. Still doing construction work around Adelaide."

"Are you with anyone at the moment?" asked Charlie.

"No-one since you. I still love you, Charlie," said Brendan, with his hands in his pockets, his eyes downcast. "I still haven't got over you."

"I figured out that you haven't. And my proof is that you've been damaging the front of my school," said Charlie.

Brendan's face was emotionless. He looked around the crowded restaurant and knew he could not make a scene.

"Please stop, or I have no choice but to call the police," continued Charlie.

"You wouldn't call the police," said Brendan.

"Well, that's what I'm going to do now," said Charlie, picking up his phone.

"Please don't do that," said Brendan as he touched Charlie's hand to stop the call.

"You're right. It might be better to call your employer to raise the issue of you misusing their spray cans," said Charlie.

"Please don't! I need this job to pay off my bills," said Brendan.

"Well, you should have thought about that before doing something stupid as vandalising my school,"

"Look, just put the phone down. I'll stop," said Brendan.

"That's not good enough. I need you to do something more," said Charlie.

"Like what?" asked Brendan.

Charlie looked outside the restaurant window and saw a familiar person walk past. The person then entered the restaurant.

"Hi Charlie," said Vernon. "Sorry I'm late."

"Hey Vernon," said Charlie. "This is Brendan. Brendan, this is Vernon."

Brendan nodded and looked puzzled. Vernon sat down next to Charlie.

"Hi Brendan," began Vernon. "I'm a psychologist. I'm here to help."

"You think I need help?" said Brendan with embarrassment.

Charlie's phone then rang. It was Grace calling.

"Sorry, I'll be back. I just need to take this call," said Charlie as he got up from the table. He left the restaurant and answered the call out on the pavement.

"Hi Grace," said Charlie. "What's up?"

"Charlie, I just got off the phone with the Toppling Twins act. They had to cancel their performance with the De Bonheur Circus."

"Really? Why?" asked Charlie.

"Apparently, it's due to sibling conflict," said Grace.

Charlie took a few seconds to process this information before rubbing his forehead with his spare hand.

"This is such short notice," said Charlie. "Have you asked the other auditionees if they're available?"

"Yes, and would you believe it? None of them are available," said Grace.

"What?! I find that hard to believe. What about Cherry Floss, the hula hooper?" asked Charlie.

"She said she had a booking for a buck's party," said Grace.

"What about the aerial silks guy?" asked Charlie.

"Mr Ropeable? He was offered a performance slot at Edinburgh. He's no longer in the country," said Grace.

"What about Gina Groove?" asked Charlie.

"On that evening, she needs to juggle university studies with babysitting her nieces and nephews," said Grace.

"What about the disappearing box act?" asked Charlie.

"They've completely disappeared. I've left voice messages. Sent emails. Haven't heard back from them since," said Grace.

"That's just great," said Charlie.

Charlie looked back at the restaurant. Vernon and Brendan appeared to be having an earnest conversation. At least Brendan had not walked out.

"What about your beginner trapeze class?" suggested Grace. "They may not be technically perfect but they have enthusiasm and presence, which is what all audiences love to watch."

"Good thinking. I'll need to ask the class. Look Grace, I've got to go now but I'll catch up with you soon," said Charlie.

As he ended the call, he took a deep breath and walked back into the restaurant.

### Chapter 21

Eckhart

Eckhart was busy getting dirty in the garden. For several weeks he had been taming the bushes and preparing garden beds. There was not one noxious weed in sight. He stood up to look at the front garden, which now looked nurtured and well-tended. He had certainly been busy doing maintenance.

He now thought about their previous trapeze lesson. Charlie had asked the class if they were happy to perform at the De Bonheur Travelling Circus when they visited Adelaide. Eckhart was a little freaked out by the idea of performing to a large crowd but the class agreed to perform. Megan, Vernon, Isabella and Arnaud seemed thrilled and loved the idea. The De Bonheur Travelling Circus were to arrive in Adelaide in just two weeks. Megan had held his hand and advised him this was going to be a new and fun experience. Eckhart then remembered the boxes of costumes in this house and suggested they come over for a look. The group agreed and they would come by this afternoon to check them out.

Eckhart looked at his watch. _Jim, the flooring_ _guy should be here soon,_ thought Eckhart. Sure enough a van drove by past the house. A trim man in his mid-sixties exited the van and walked up to greet Eckhart.

"G'day Eckhart. Nice job you're doing with the garden," said Jim.

"Thanks Jim. So here's the house," said Eckhart with a sweeping gesture to the house.

"It's looking good," said Jim.

"I hope you'll like the interiors as well. Come inside," said Eckhart. He took off his shoes, dropped off his gardening gloves and walked inside the house.

"That's very cute," said Jim as he saw the welcome mat with its message, _I am not a doormat._

Jim then followed Eckhart inside the house.

"Ah, I can see the problem," said Jim as he looked at the wooden floors. "Those are pretty big dents and scratches. You certainly don't want anyone tripping over."

"I was hoping they could be filled in some way," said Eckhart.

"That won't be an issue. A bit of wood filler can certainly do the work," said Jim. "Where there's a void, it can be filled up with something else, even if it's not quite the same materials."

"So after the filling, would you be able to polish the wooden floors," asked Eckhart.

"Yep. How slippery do you want the floors to be? Just kidding. I'll make sure you won't slip and fall," said Jim with a laugh. "I can arrange the floors to be polished. I use products and machinery that produce a scratch-resistant surface. How cool is that? Any unwanted external force will not leave a trace because the surface is strong enough to withstand it."

"That sounds like a very good feature to have," agreed Eckhart.

Eckhart then gave Jim a full tour of the house. When they came to the bedroom, Jim saw the sleeping bag.

"I guess, you can't wait to sleep on a proper bed," said Jim, pointing to the sleeping bag. "I'm not a fan of sleeping on the floor. You need to love yourself, you know? Don't be so harsh on yourself."

"Oh, I know," said Eckhart. "It's more a money-saving measure. I'll be buying a proper bed once the floors have been polished."

"All right, well I've got the information I need and I'll email you a quote soon," said Jim. "By the way I'm a teacher at a vocational college where we teach trades. I'd like what you've done with the garden. You should check out the courses we offer."

Jim handed over his college business card to Eckhart and he walked out of the house with a wave. Eckhart closed the front door.

Eckhart had been staring at the business card for a few minutes as he felt an unfamiliar feeling of excitement at the idea of being a tradie. _No more working in a lifeless office_ , thought Eckhart with hope.

The doorbell rang and Eckhart returned to the present. He opened the door and welcomed Isabelle and Arnaud into the house.

"I'm not wearing those," said Arnaud, as he looked at the range of bright and sequinned tights in the boxes. "Those are tights. I was expecting at least some proper trousers.

"Oh, Arnaud, get over yourself," said Isabella as she picked a pair of white and pink-coloured tights. "I love these! I'm getting first dibs."

The doorbell rang again and Eckhart let Megan and Vernon inside.

"Oh, these costumes are so intricate," said Megan as she saw the beading work on the costumes. "I like this cherry red piece. It has faux flowers sewn in on the shoulders. Very pretty."

"Tights, really?" said Vernon, as he saw the costumes and then shrugged as he picked up a clothing item out of a box. "I've got nothing to hide. I think this orange costume looks good."

"How about this striped white and navy piece" said Isabella as she pressed these tights against Arnaud's body. "Gives you a very nautical look."

"You're naughty for making me take this trapeze class," said Arnaud and he kissed Isabella playfully on the lips.

Eckhart selected sleeveless tights, which had striped light blue and purple colours.

There was a knock on the door.

"That must be Charlie," said Vernon.

Eckhart went to open the front door and saw Charlie smiling,

"What a nice place you have," said Charlie. "Hey guys. Ooh, they're very circus-y costumes."

"Come in, Charlie," said Eckhart with a smile.

"Where can I try these on in private," asked Arnaud as he walked up to Eckhart.

"You can use the bathroom to try them on," said Eckhart, pointing out the bathroom's location. "Hopefully, they'll fit alright."

Isabella and Arnaud went to the bathroom to change

"I'll try them on here," said Charlie as he selected a banana-coloured item. He began to strip off his shoes, T-shirt and jeans, until he was down to his jocks.

Vernon and Megan shared amused looks with each other as Charlie showed how comfortable he was with his body. Eckhart stifled a yawn.

"Oh, it only goes up to the waist," said Charlie. "But that doesn't worry me."

"Mine has long sleeves," said Vernon.

"So do mine," said Megan.

"I look alright though?" said Charlie, turning around, showing off his muscular curves.

Eckhart was at this time admiring Daniel's paintwork on the walls, ignoring Charlie momentarily. _The light blue colour really gives a freshness to the space,_ thought Eckhart. He smiled as he remembered helping out Daniel with the paint brushes and Daniel had playfully touched Eckhart's nose with a small amount of house paint.

"Yes, you look great," said Isabella as she returned from the bathroom with Arnaud. "And don't we look cute together?"

Arnaud covered his private parts as he walked into view of the group.

"I really don't think the audience needs to see and know everything about me," said Arnaud.

And they all laughed.

### Chapter 22

Margot

"Mum, I think we should do something nice with Auntie Margie," said Nicole. "She's been moping around the house for weeks now."

"She's going through a rough patch," said Laura with sympathy. "She needs however long to get through this."

"She needs cheering up," said Nicole. "Maybe we could take her out to dinner again."

"That sounds good. Where can we take her that she hasn't been yet?" asked Laura.

"How about Henley Beach? We haven't taken her there yet," said Nicole. "We can walk along the beach and have ice cream afterwards as well."

"I'll speak to Margie," said Laura.

"And I'll get ready to go out," said Nicole.

Laura walked over to the guest room where Margot had been staying. Laura knocked on the door. There was no answer. She quietly opened the door and saw that Margot was sleeping on the bed. Laura could see that Margot had finished the dozen bottles of wine purchased on the road trip to the Barossa Valley. There were empty glasses spread throughout the bedroom.

Laura sat gently on the bed and put her hand on Margot's shoulder to carefully wake her up. Margot's eyes slowly opened and closed them when she saw it was Laura.

"I was having a nice nap," said Margot with her eyes closed.

"It's 4.30pm, Margie. I've noticed you seem to do nothing but sleep all day." said Laura.

"Well, you didn't fail and lose your job, did you?" said Margot.

"No, I guess I didn't. Anyhow, me and Nicole would like to take you out to dinner tonight at Henley Beach. It's a lovely part of Adelaide and we want to show it off to you," said Laura. "We'll be ready to leave in half an hour. Can you do this for Nicole, at least?"

"Alright," said Margot.

Laura nodded and collected several wine glasses before closing the door behind.

In half an hour they were all in Laura's car, on their way to Henley Beach.

"We can eat at a really nice pub just across from Henley Square. It's very laidback," suggested Nicole.

"I love that place, Nicole. Oh, there's a parking spot!" said Laura, very happy at her fortune.

Margot was looking quietly out at the passing pedestrians.

After Laura parked the car, they crossed the road together towards the beach. They joined other beachgoers on the shared pathway, which was a very chilled scene. There were couples holding hands, young families strolling by and cyclists riding slowly past.

"I probably should get back to Sydney," said Margot.

"I don't think you're ready. You're still miserable," said Laura. "You know what? Stay for one more week. The De Bonheur circus will be here next week. Remember how we saw them as children back in Sydney? And the famous trapeze trio. What were they called?"

"The Trapeze Trio Trailblazers?" said Margot. "We saw them before they had the accident."

"Yes, that was very sad. Such a handsome man too. I guess they still continue to put on circus shows around Australia. We should go and see them," said Laura.

"Fine, I'll go see the circus and then I'm flying back to Sydney," said Margot.

"Yay," said Laura as she attempted to give Margot a hug but was stopped as Margot quickly folded her arms.

They all went on their way to find a table at the pub for a quiet meal. It was during their meal that Margot's mobile rang.

"Hello," answered Margot.

"Hi Margot, it's Theo here," said Theodore. "How's everything in Adelaide."

"It's okay," said Margot as she look at Laura's smile. Laura was pleased Margot was having a conversation with anyone.

"Margot, I resigned from my job. The office politics got too much," said Theodore.

"Have you got another job lined up?" asked Margot.

"No, not yet," said Theodore. "I may have to move back in with my parents."

"Maybe you don't need to do that yet. I'm planning on coming back to Sydney in a week but I'm more than happy for you to stay with me while things are sorted out," said Margot.

Margot could see Laura was squeezing Nicole's arm with excitement, mouthing the words, "Margot's got a new man!"

"Really? You're too kind. I do miss working with you," said Theodore.

"I miss working with you too, Theodore. Look, I'm having a dinner with my sister and niece at the moment but I can call you back," said Margot.

Laura was shaking her head, encouraging Margot to continue the phone conversation instead.

"Sure Margot. We'll chat later," said Theodore and he hung up.

Margot put her mobile back on the table.

"Stop smiling Laura. He's just a former colleague, and way too young for me," said Margot stonily. "The thought is absolutely ridiculous."

Laura could not stop smiling.

### Chapter 23

De Bonheur Travelling Circus @ Adelaide, South Australia

Dress Rehearsal

Blanche stood on the ringside stage under the Big Top, as the technical crew began securing the audience seating. The De Bonheur Travelling Circus had just landed in Adelaide and the technical crew were busy working their magic.

Charlie walked inside the Big Top and spotted Blanche.

"Hello," greeted Charlie as he walked up to Blanche. "I'm Charlie, I received your invitation. Welcome to Adelaide!"

"Oh hello, Charlie. Thank you for dropping by. It's a pity the original act cancelled," said Blanche. "But the dress rehearsal should give your beginner trapeze class a fun experience."

"They're really excited. I wanted to say thank you again for this opportunity," said Charlie.

Megan, Eckhart, Vernon, Isabella and Arnaud walked up behind Charlie in their costumes.

"We're ready for practice!" said Isabella to Charlie.

"Hey everyone. This is Blanche," said Charlie. "She runs the De Bonheur Circus."

"You're all wearing very nice costumes," said Blanche as a look of admiration turned to one of seriousness. She touched the sewn flowers on Megan's shoulder.

"Where did you find these? I remember these costumes. I helped sew these together," said Blanche with surprise.

"They were found at my house, here in Adelaide," said Eckhart. "It was part of a deceased estate."

"A deceased estate?" said Blanche, tears forming in her eyes. "Do you know the name of the deceased?"

"Yes, I think it was a Mark Elliott," said Eckhart. "Why? Have I said something wrong?"

Blanche sat down in the audience seating, feeling overwhelmed.

"So he was in Adelaide this whole time. Mark Elliot was Magnus's real name," said Blanche, visibly upset. "I was always hoping someday I'd see him again. I can't believe he's gone too"

"I have boxes of circus paraphernalia at the house. I think you might know what they are," said Eckhart. Then he looked closely at Blanche's face.

"Are you the woman in the photograph?" asked Eckhart.

"What photo?" asked Blanche.

"Maybe you can invite Blanche to your housewarming this weekend and show her the photograph?" suggested Megan.

"I would very much like that. So much intrigue already!" said Blanche.

Blanche took a deep breath and after regaining her composure, stood up.

"But you're here for practice. I'll ask the technical crew if the trapeze swing is ready to use. I've also asked several circus performers to watch your practice session to help with your performance," said Blanche as she nodded to Alexia, Aria, Estelle and Daisy, who were already sitting in the ringside seats. They were make-up free and wearing casual clothes. They waved at the beginner group.

"If you want to ask advice, please feel free to ask the performers. They're very friendly and professional," said Blanche. A technical staff person advised Blanche the trapeze was ready for use.

"That's really big. Oh, I don't think I can go up there," said Eckhart looking up at the trapeze swing above.

"Come on, Eckhart, let's go and practise!" said Megan as she ribbed Eckhart in his side. "We're performing tomorrow night!"

### Chapter 24

De Bonheur Travelling Circus @ Adelaide, South Australia

Show night

Blanche De Bonheur came onto the stage with a big smile.

"That was the amazing Daisy B. Nimble!" said Blanche. "Give her another round of applause."

Once the applause died down, Blanche began to speak.

"The De Bonheur Travelling Circus have been inviting guest circus groups and artists along our tour of Australia to showcase their talent. And what amazing talent we have seen! Unfortunately, the Toppling Twins who were invited to perform tonight had to cancel but I have been advised by Charlie Golding, owner of the Inner Strength Circus Arts School, that another group will perform instead. I now ask you to welcome the Inner Strength High-Flyers, including Megan, Isabella, Vernon, Arnaud, Eckhart, and Charlie."

Charlie was on the trapeze platform, waving to the audience. He then launched himself on the left-sided trapeze before moving to a sitting position on the swing. Megan, Isabella, Vernon, Arnaud, and Eckhart were standing rather squeezed on the platform to the right of the trapeze set.

Then one by one, Megan, Isabella, Vernon, and Arnaud, held onto the trapeze, swung into action, were caught by Charlie, and proceeded with the double pendulum arc. They were soon released back to the returning trapeze swing and they then made their way back to the trapeze platform. It was now Eckhart's turn.

Megan was holding in the right trapeze swing with a hook, while a nervous looking Eckhart reached out to hold onto the trapeze. He was shaking. A look of fright and disbelief remained on his face before he saw Charlie starting to lower his body from the trapeze swing. Charlie was now upside down and ready to catch Eckhart.

_Now's just not the best time for this to happen,_ thought Eckhart. _I still haven't got over my fear of heights._

And then Eckhart left the platform, swinging with both hands on the trapeze. It was like slow motion as Eckhart's hands left the swing with his hands outstretched towards Charlie's direction, when Eckhart felt Charlie catch him tightly. The swinging momentum continued and soon Eckhart could see the trapeze swing returning and he reached out for the trapeze swing. But Eckhart missed and soon he was falling. Falling into terror, but not before he felt the spring of the safety net catch him. Eckhart felt mortified. Having failed this exercise, he curled up into a ball. A few moments later, Blanche De Bonheur scrambled up onto the net and said four words into Eckhart's ears.

"Have faith in yourself," said Blanche.

Eckhart opened his eyes and looked at Blanche with a sudden understanding. Blanche and Eckhart left the netting area and Eckhart climbed back up to the platform amongst the encouraging cheers of the crowd. In the interim, Isabella, Vernon, and Arnaud continued to perform the trapeze tricks. Eckhart was now back on the platform and it was Megan's turn. Megan waved at the audience with confidence and a big smile. Megan launched herself on the swing and gracefully arced into Charlie's hands. Megan soared through the air and on her return, grasped the swinging trapeze and ended up back onto the platform like the ever consummate professional.

"Eckhart, it's your turn. I know you can do this. You've done this plenty of times," said Megan. Eckhart nodded.

Eckhart launched himself onto the trapeze with a stronger confidence and travelled on the swing towards Charlie. Charlie caught Eckhart again with a big smile. They did the double pendulum arc and as Eckhart approached the returning trapeze, he did a twist, and latched onto the swing. Eckhart then landed on the platform in one piece.

"We all did it!" enthused Megan as she hugged Eckhart.

Charlie dropped down into the safety net, with Megan, Eckhart, Isabella, Vernon, and Arnaud following suit. They all held hands and gave a bow to the appreciative audience.

### Chapter 25

Margot

Margot, Laura and Nicole clapped their hands as the Inner Strength High-Flyers gave their bows to the audience.

"Now that was a brave trapeze group! Let's thank the Inner Strength High-Flyers everyone," boomed Blanche De Bonheur. "And now for the final act. I met this amazing woman in Sydney. I was giving a class as a guest instructor for a circus arts course and she showed such talent. The staff at Twist & Squat were also absolutely lovely to work with."

A dormant part of Margot's brain slowly woke up.

_Twist & Squat?,_ thought Margot. _That's where Fiona went._

"Be prepared to be amazed. Let's hear it for the aerial artist, Aria de Cieling," cheered Blanche.

The Big Top darkened and the spotlight beamed on a young woman walking out onto the stage with a big smile.

Margot was aware of a strange sensation coming over her stomach.

_No, it couldn't possibly be her. Fiona has straight sandy-brown hair, not dark curly hair,_ thought Margot.

A safety harness was lowered from the fixed roof rigging, which Aria fastened tightly around her waist. The technical staff also lowered the trapeze swing so that it reached Aria.

_Plus, Aria's face is face-painted a silver colour. I'm being ridiculous. As if Fiona joined a circus. She was a trained lawyer,_ continued Margot's thoughts.

Once Aria secured her grip on the trapeze swing, the technical staff brought the trapeze up into the air and Aria was now flying. It was then that Margot saw a small tattoo on Aria's ankle. It was of an umbrella.

_It's Fiona Fern,_ thought Margot with astonishment.

Margot recalled that Fiona had a tattoo of an umbrella on her ankle. Margot had noted this at an endless business meeting when Fiona had crossed her legs in frustration.

"Are you alright, Margie?" whispered Laura as she looked at Margot's restless body language.

"I know her," whispered Margot. "I just have to go and make a phone call."

Margot got up from her seat and made her way outside the Big Top. She made a call to the police and after a few minutes of giving details, Margot walked back inside the Big Top, just as Aria was finishing her act.

Margot walked up to the ringside stage. Now that she was closer to the stage, it was definitely Fiona behind the silver face paint. Margot began to experience feelings of rage and fury. As Aria gave a bow to the audience, Margot walked onto the stage.

"Fiona?" asked Margot as she walked into the spotlight.

A look of horror passed across Aria's face. She then unfastened her safety harness, which was slowly being lowered and about to be returned to the open rig.

"Is everything alright?" asked Blanche as she stepped forward towards the two.

"It's you! People have been searching for you everywhere," shouted Margot at Aria. "I lost my job because of you! Where's the remaining money. Tell me!"

Then in a blink of an eye, Aria rushed forward and with deft movement tied the safety harness on Margot, who did not realise what was happening.

And then Margot became airborne and was now moving around the stage in a circular fashion, as Margot began thrashing about.

"Put me down! Place me back down! Don't let her escape," hollered Margot as she saw Aria running and exiting the Big Top.

The audience burst out laughing, thinking this strange event was part of the show. Meanwhile, Blanche was frantically motioning to the technical staff to lower the safety harness down. A technical crew member ran up to Blanche and spoke to Blanche's ear. Blanche nodded and the technical person left the stage.

"And ladies and gentlemen, that concludes our show," said Blanche into the megaphone. "Technical staff are having issues with the safety harness function, which has jammed, but rest assured this lady will be returned to safe ground shortly."

Blanche looked up and saw a clearly unimpressed Margot, who had folded her arms. The crowd was pointing at her with amusement and curiosity.

"We hope you have had a wonderful evening and I bid you good night!" said Blanche, as the closing music began to play.

### Chapter 26

Eckhart

"Alright, we're all set," said Megan as she prepared the wine glasses and poured out the champagne. "Housewarmings are a lot of fun."

"I feel really nervous. I'm not good at socialising," said Eckhart. "It's like everyone will judge me for having the most abysmal social skills ever. They're all secretly thinking I'm mad."

"Eckhart, they're all as self-absorbed as you are. So you'll be fine. If it's of any help, I know how you feel. I used to hate socialising because I couldn't hear what people were saying and my self-confidence plummeted. But these days I don't take my hearing loss so personally. I just accept it. I thought everything being said was important but that isn't always the case. Not every conversation is worth listening to?" said Megan as she placed the glasses of wine onto a drinks tray.

"Wow, I feel so much better now, Megan," said Eckhart as he placed the fruit platters on the newly purchased dining table.

"You're welcome," said Megan. "The fruit looks delicious."

"Yes. I might have some of these luscious looking strawberries now," said Eckhart.

"Help yourself, " said Megan with a laugh.

The doorbell started to ring and soon Eckhart was letting invitees in. Eckhart had invited all the tradespersons as well as members of his trapeze class. They had all commented on how good the house looked.

_It looks and feels less lonely,_ thought Eckhart and he smiled as he found himself in a home, surrounded by positive people.

Blanche was expected to arrive any moment. She was with Police that morning assisting with finishing up their investigations. Fiona was caught and arrested shortly after fleeing the Big Top as police were already on their way to the circus.

"I hope Blanche is okay," said Isabella.

"I don't think she was aware she was harbouring a wanted person," said Arnaud.

There was a familiar knock on the door.

Eckhart walked to the front door but before opening the door, he could hear Blanche's voice.

"I had absolutely no idea. Aria was a lovely and talented performer. I didn't hesitate to have her as part of the circus. I hope she'll be alright. She didn't murder anyone," said Blanche.

Eckhart opened the door to see Charlie standing with Blanche.

"Hello, Eckhart," greeted Charlie. "I'm here with Blanche."

"Come on in!" welcomed Eckhart. He led them to the living room.

"So this is where Magnus lived in his final years," said Blanche as she walked inside the house.

"Here is the photograph I was talking to you about," said Eckhart as he collected the framed photograph from the living room and handed the photograph to Blanche.

"Oh, we all look so beautiful," said Blanche.

"I found the photograph in what may have been his bedroom," said Eckhart. "And here are all the boxes."

"Oh, I remember this," said Blanche, placing the framed photograph on top of one of the boxes. She saw the Trailblazing Trapeze Trio banner.

Then Grace saw the tins.

"That's out of this world. You've got the film footage, as well?" said Blanche in disbelief.

"Oh, is that what they are? I wasn't sure what they contained. The lids are really jammed," said Eckhart.

"These would be old footage of the circus performances," said Blanche. She was certain that this footage would include Anchor Caspian and Magnus Eyres. Perhaps they could be brought back to life once more, for the general public to appreciate.

"If you'd like, it seems like these items really belong to you," said Eckhart.

"You wouldn't mind me collecting these?" asked Blanche.

"Of course not," said Eckhart.

"I might donate these to the South Australian Museum," said Blanche. "I'll give them a call and they can collect from your house. They would be able to digitise the footage and upload online," said Blanche. "Whoo! I feel like I have just made peace with the past."

Blanche rummaged through the costumes and came up with a stately top hat.

"Charlie," called out Blanche. Charlie entered the living room at the sound of his voice.

"While I was doing the talent callout, I was hoping to find a successor. I've now decided I'm not going to retire at all. I'm going to run this circus til I drop. And when I do drop dead, I would like to hand over the circus to you. How does that sound," said Blanche.

"That would be amazing," said Charlie.

Blanche smiled and placed the top hat on Charlie's head.

"You look perfect for the job," said Blanche and she gave Charlie a hug.

### Chapter 27

Margot

Margot walked through the leafy trees in Hyde Park, Sydney. She could see a gang of young men being ordered about, planting flowers to a set design. She saw office workers on their lunch breaks undertaking one-on-one boxing classes. She was soon at the south-east part of the park and crossed the road to make her way into the Downing Centre Law Courts. It was Fiona Fern's sentencing hearing. Margot walked to the security entrance, placed her belongings on the provided plastic tray and was passed through security. She walked to the noticeboard and noted the courtroom number where the sentencing hearing was to take place. As she walked into the courtroom she bowed her head and took a seat at the back of the court. The sentencing hearing would be happening in about an hour. In the meantime quite a few matters went through the court. Drug offences, assaults, and thefts.

Then finally Fiona was brought into the offender's dock. She was wearing a dark green jumper and pants. Fiona had previously been found guilty of fraud and was brought in for the sentencing hearing.

The judge summarised the prosecutor's recommendation for the most appropriate sentencing period and noted Fiona's lawyer submission for a much reduced sentence. The judge emphasised that as there was evidence that gambling led to the loss of $5 million, Fiona needed to be made an example of to the public. Then it happened. Fiona was sentenced to ten years prison with eight years and six months parole. The judge also noted that Fiona was struck off the roll of lawyers and could no longer practise as a lawyer. Fiona looked down at her feet as she heard the judgment.

_Well, that's brought some kind of closure,_ thought Margot as she got up from her seat, bowed to the judge and left the courtroom.

She then caught a bus back to her home in Dover Heights. On the bus she read a Sydney business newspaper. Her eye caught the headline _"Malcolm Mugtree under investigation for use of tax havens"._ Margot learnt from the article that Malcolm Mugtree actually had 100% interest in the company Nevercatch Holdings, which was based in a well-known tax haven. The article also said that an inquiry was underway to understand how lucrative subsidies were awarded to Surface-Under outside of the standard government tender processes.

Margot folded the newspaper as the bus approached her stop and she walked towards her home.

On arrival to her house, she opened the door and heard several dogs barking.

"Hello, my pets," said Margot, pushing open the door, seeing two greyhounds jumping about. She gave Pete and Ella a hug. The adopted greyhounds licked Margot's face enthusiastically.

"Hey Margot," said Theodore as he gave Margot a quick kiss on the lips. "How did the sentencing hearing go?"

Margot informed Theodore about the judge's decision.

"Well, guess what? While you were away, your new business just got two new clients today. They missed you and wanted only you to give them legal advice," said Theodore.

"Oh, that's great news! Sounds like this new business is ready to launch. Although, it still feels strange to be working from home," said Margot.

"Yes, it is but it's better, don't you think? I'm not surrounded by people that get on my nerves. Anyhow, I was about to take Pete and Ella for their walk. Did you want to join us," asked Theodore.

"Sure, that would be lovely," said Margot. She linked her arm with Theodore's and they went to walk Pete and Ella to the local park.

### Chapter 28

Megan

Megan clicked on the news item on the news website, "Lawyer who stole money and joined circus goes to jail". She took a deep breath and remembered what had happened on the day before Aria's arrest. Aria had struck up a conversation with Megan after the dress rehearsal took place and they agreed to have lunch together near by the Big Top. They had just finished having lunch at a café and decided to have a walk around the Adelaide Botanic Gardens.

The day before the arrest

"It was a good dress rehearsal," said Megan to Aria de Cieling.

"It was indeed. The crowd will love your performance for sure. So this is the Adelaide Botanic Gardens? I always love visiting gardens," said Aria.

They both entered through the Botanic Gardens' gate and were soon walking through a pathway amongst the trees in the wide open space.

"I also wanted to talk to you as I heard you were a real estate agent. I'm impressed. How did you get your own agency?" said Aria

"Short answer is sheer bloody-mindedness and wonderful audiologists. Long answer is that I was a high achiever at school and I read a lot. Today's technology also helps, where I can respond by email rather than through verbal communication. Oh, and subtitles saved my life," said Megan. "Here is the wellbeing health garden."

Megan pointed to a well maintained garden space where garden rangers, wearing chaps over their shorts, were weeding and tidying the garden.

"I could relax here all day," said Aria. She looked solemnly at Megan. "I've done something really out of character."

"Really, like what?" asked Megan.

They walked quietly for a few minutes, where they came across a glass pyramid.

"What's that glass pyramid?" asked Aria.

"It's a rainforest space in a large glasshouse," explained Megan. "It's pretty unusual considering Adelaide has a very dry climate.

"What a coincidence! A rainforest space right here in Adelaide!" remarked Aria.

"I'm not sure what the coincidence is," said Megan.

They both walked through the sliding door and felt the humid air immediately and saw a large rainforest canopy with multiple walkways.

They walked around quietly with Aria absorbing the experience with silence. Aria turned to Megan.

"I just love rainforests," said Aria. "Aren't they the most amazing thing?"

"Sure," said Megan. "I can see that you're very passionate about the environment."

They exited the glass pyramid and Aria motioned to a park bench close by to sit on, They both sat down.

"Megan, I feel that I can trust you. You may not believe what I am about to tell you but I need you to, in case I get caught," said Aria.

"Caught? You're not in some kind of trouble are you?" said Megan with concern.

Aria looked down at her feet.

"My real name is Fiona Fern. This is a very new thing for me, being a circus artist. I used to be a tax litigation lawyer back in Sydney. I'm glad I've left the law firm. Everyone I worked with were just so self-righteous. Anyway, I've been doing my job, trying to ensure my clients, which are large multinationals, take advantage of all the tax concessions available to them. I provide customised and economically favourable business solutions. Everything was just progressing as normal. Then me and my now ex-boyfriend decided to go to Queensland for a holiday. We went to this really peaceful place that had a huge rainforest," said Aria.

Aria took a deep breath.

"I can't describe how I felt when we entered this incredible place. Everything was so green. Living and breathing green. Everywhere I looked, there were trees, birds, and water. It felt so alive. So sacred and so calming. And I thought to myself, how did I end up working in a sterile steel and concrete city, when this most enriching rainforest in Queensland was the most amazing place I had ever visited. I had a life-changing moment, and questioned whether I was using my time on earth in the best way as possible," said Aria.

Megan nodded, engrossed in what Aria was saying.

"So, when I returned to Sydney, I was a changed person and I looked at things differently. At work, I was responsible for looking after a client's tax dispute with the Taxation Office. This involved Surface-Under. The CEO, Malcolm Mugtree, advised me they were only happy to settle for no more than $10 million. What a greedy man! He couldn't help himself. So I was expecting $10 million to be transferred into the trust account but their accounts team definitely made an error and $100 million was transferred instead. I couldn't believe my eyes. I thought, well what can I do with this money for the best of society? I was thinking about the public interest. So I thought, well the Taxation Office should get as much money for the costs of looking after Australian citizens. And so I settled the tax dispute with the Taxation office for $95 million."

"I'm not sure what to say," said Megan. "That's a lot of money. I thought you said they transferred $100 million."

"They did. I was reading the news and somehow you see examples where politicians aren't the best people to determine how money is spent. So I withheld $5 million."

"Oh my god," said Megan, covering her mouth. "You stole $5 million? How come you haven't been arrested?"

"Yet. I haven't been arrested yet because I've been good at covering up my tracks. But I know there is a huge chance that I will be caught anytime soon," said Aria.

"So what have you done with the $5 million dollars?" asked Megan.

"Well, I've made it look like I blew it all in the casino. I went to Melbourne and visited the casino there. I tried to make it look like I spent a lot of money there but it was exaggerated and I used my savings not the stolen funds," said Aria. "I had the cheque for $5 million made out to Cash, because I purchased a vast tract of grazing land as well as a disused mining site in Queensland that used to be a rainforest. The real estate agency handling the sale was Cash & Brothers Real Estate. They had no issue with accepting the funds. They did not ask me how I got the money and the sale went straight to settlement. I would say that Cash & Brothers had perhaps non-existent due diligence policies."

"So you're a landowner. What are you going to do with the land?" asked Megan.

"I hope to regrow the rainforest it used to be. I had done some research about protecting the interests of rainforests. I was lucky that I met a few volunteers who were happy to replant the land with native rainforest vegetation. It won't be a rainforest overnight, but one tree at a time, and in the future it may become the rainforest that I was amazed by on that holiday. But I need someone to look after the landholding if I go to prison. handle all the rates and administration. The volunteers I mentioned said they were happy to donate towards the costs of the rates," said Aria.

"You want me to look after the landholding for you? Because I'm a real estate agent?" asked Megan.

Aria nodded her head.

"I'll need to think about it. I'm shocked," said Megan. She stood up and walked further into the Botanic Gardens. Aria followed, unsure what decision Megan would make. They were now both in an enormous rose garden. They both walked quietly around in the maze-like configuration of roses. There were roses blooming of almost every conceivable colour. Yellows, pinks, reds, oranges and creams.

"I'll do it," decided Megan.

"Oh, I can't thank you enough," said Aria as she gave Megan a hug. Aria took out a USB drive from her jacket.

"I have included all the documentation and directions on where to access the unencumbered land titles on this USB. I hope to get back in touch once I serve out my more than likely prison sentence," said Aria as she placed the USB in Megan's hand. "This USB also includes a trust declaration for the benefit of the general public, including educating them about rainforests."

Then Megan saw the look of relief in Aria's eyes and they returned to the Big Top.

Megan looked at Aria's USB in her hand. _It's our secret,_ thought Megan, and she plugged the USB into her computer.

### Acknowledgements

I would like to thank my family and friends who have been supportive of me throughout the writing this book.

### About the Author

Jonathan Solomon is an office worker who was born in Sydney, Australia. In his spare time, Jonathan thinks of new ways to be busy and has an interest in all things theatrical, both on and off stage. He is also passionate about running, at his own pace. He has written and produced two plays, _Office Ink_ and _Out of Bounds_. He also wrote _White Tulips & Wedding Cake,_ his first novel.

