Today I Will Set It Out

Back in the woodland clearing, Puschel put the basket beside the bench. The boat returned to its own stone, away from the food. Puschel spread out the blanket. This time it kept all four corners on the ground.

Puschel“The picnic cloud has done enough work for today.”

Flauschi sat at the edge of the blanket. They both cleaned their paws. Puschel took out the bread prepared at home and the washed apple pieces. He arranged them on the wooden plate and set out two cups of drinking water. There was no unfamiliar food to gather and nothing to cook over a fire.

For a moment he wanted to ask whether the plate should go on the left or the right. Then he placed it between them, where both could reach. Flauschi did not need to make every little decision for him.

Puschel“The food is ready. Help yourself to whatever you like.”

Flauschi“Thank you. I am also glad I did not have to say what comes first.”

They ate. Puschel reached for his cup and Flauschi for a piece of bread. No grand plan lay between them. A few dry leaves rustled beneath the bench; the little boat waited quietly on the stone.

After a while, Puschel asked whether her rest today had helped. Flauschi thought about it.

Flauschi“Yes. That does not mean my wish is settled forever. But today there has been room for it.”

Puschel“Then we should look at how we share our responsibilities later too. Not now while we are eating.”

Flauschi“I would like that. And until then I can remind you without us having to begin all over again.”

Puschel nodded. He did not need a thank-you certificate, and Flauschi did not need to give an especially cheerful answer. She took a sip of water and leant back comfortably.

When they had finished eating, Puschel packed the plate, cups and blanket. They took everything with them and followed the familiar dry path home. The boat’s sender remained unknown. But Puschel now knew another wish: the one belonging to the companion beside him. He wanted to remember it for more than one afternoon.