“Why don’t we all change and head over to the fish pond. There’s also a pool under the waterfall if you feel like taking a swim.”

“That sounds awesome.”

“OK I’ll meet you ladies back here in say 15 minutes?”

Julia, Tina and Bette went into their backpacks to get their swim suits and shorts then headed to the bathroom to change. They met up with Paul 15 minutes later. He handed them their fishing gear and supplies then they all headed to the fish pond.

None of the women had ever fished in a pond before so Paul gave them some basics on bating the hooks and tossing the lines. They worked together and soon everyone had caught one fish which was enough for their meal. Paul and Julia headed back to camp to clean the fish while Bette and Tina went for a swim in the pool under the waterfall. It was beautiful and refreshing. They swam and chased each other and laughed and relaxed in each others embrace while sitting on a rock. They hadn’t been so carefree and happy together in what seemed like forever. They almost hated leaving this serene and invigorating environment but it was time to head back. They’d promised Paul and Julia that they’d grill the fish as a trade-off for the other two cleaning them.They prepared a delicious outdoor meal with the fish, and the vegetables and fruits that Paul had provided them.

As they did their wrap-up Paul expressed how pleased he was with how much progress Bette and Tina had made over the course of the past three days. They were off to a great start but he suggested that they sign up for another couple’s retreat in six months and perhaps a third in a year or so just to check in. At this point both Bette and Tina were willing to do whatever it took to stay on the course they’d mapped out for themselves on this journey. They agreed to come back in six months and to do a follow-up six months after that. Of course Bette would continue to see Julia on her own and if Tina wanted she could do the same or find someone else she was comfortable with but nonetheless they would continue to invest in their relationship and their forever.