Last One Out

Boot prints in the dust mark recent human activity around three abandoned houses in Carralon Ridge, a once-thriving village now reduced to a ghost town, overtaken by a mining company. The ivy-choked cottage, the weatherboard farmhouse with a missing front door, and the boarded-up sandstone bungalow stand as silent witnesses to the town's decline. A young man, celebrating his twenty-first birthday, arrives in a red rental car, navigating the rough, overgrown tracks leading to the houses. His journey is marked by discomfort and anxiety, exacerbated by the harsh conditions and the constant, unsettling hum of the nearby mine. After a brief stop to inspect his car, he steps out into the oppressive heat, taking a moment to survey the desolate landscape before him. Tinged with a sense of guilt and unease, he hesitates but ultimately decides to proceed on foot towards the houses. Later that evening, his parents discover his abandoned car, locked and undamaged, near the convergence of the three tracks. Concerned and confused, they call out for him, their voices mingling with the persistent, low drone of the mine. The chapter ends with the three houses standing in eerie silence, enveloped by the encroaching darkness, as the parents’ anxiety grows.

Five years after the initial event, Ro Crowley returns to Carralon Ridge, a town in rapid decline due to the encroachment of a mining company. Despite warnings, Ro is still shocked by the changes. She stops at the Hewetts’ property, where the once-lush orchard is now overgrown and the archway where she was married is gone, symbolizing the loss of the town’s former vitality. Driving through the town, Ro notes the deterioration of various landmarks: the community hall with a padlocked chain, the former medical center with newspaper-covered windows, and the boarded-up bank. The general store is barely surviving, and the pub, the Black Creek Inn, is unusually closed on a Thursday evening, a stark contrast to its usual bustling activity. Inside, the bar looks operational but empty, with only a few bottles remaining in the fridges. Ro’s return is marked by a sense of disorientation and loss. She hears an odd clanging noise, which she traces to no apparent source, adding to the eerie atmosphere. A call from her ex-husband, Griff, informs her that the pub is rarely open now and that their daughter, Della, isn’t yet in town. Reluctant to take the direct route to the ridge, which passes the three abandoned houses, Ro agrees to meet Griff there via a longer route.

Ro takes the longer route to meet Griff on the ridge, passing through dense bushland and noting the town's decline. The clanging noise she heard earlier seems to echo in her mind as she drives, adding to the sense of unease. Upon arrival, she finds Griff leaning against his car, looking tired and worn. They exchange greetings, and Ro observes the stark changes in Griff over the years, reflecting on their past and the town's better days.

Griff updates Ro on the current state of the town, mentioning the closure of the pub and the departure of several residents, including the Hewetts. They discuss the expansion of the Lentzer coal mine and the impact it has had on Carralon Ridge. Griff's role in maintaining the town's safety from fires is highlighted, revealing his conflicted feelings about working for the mine.

Ro and Griff share a somber moment as they look over the town, with Ro feeling a mix of nostalgia and sadness. They decide to head down, and after a brief pause, Ro returns to the edge of the ridge to gaze at the three abandoned houses where Sam was last seen. She reflects on the night Sam disappeared, recounting the frantic search and the growing sense of dread as time passed without finding him.

Ro arrives at her former family home in Carralon Ridge, where a clean silver sedan indicates that Della is already there. As she approaches the house, a mix of emotions washes over her, noting the changes and the surreal sense of returning to a place that once felt like home. The house, now leased back to Griff by the mining company, shows signs of neglect, but Ro appreciates the efforts to maintain some parts of the garden.

Inside, Ro reunites with Della, who greets her warmly. They discuss the town's decline and Della's concerns about the atmosphere. Ro decides to stay in the hut, a small, self-contained studio built by Griff for her parents, rather than in the main house. The hut, while not as homely as before, provides a sense of familiarity and isolation.

Later, Ro discovers a large envelope addressed to her, containing a collection of photographs of her and Sam throughout the years. As she goes through the photos, she is overwhelmed by nostalgia and the stark contrast between her past happiness and present grief. She also finds Sam's notebook, which contains his last entries, including a list of questions and a name dated on the day of his disappearance. Ro's emotional journey is evident as she handles these mementos, struggling to keep her composure.

Before joining Griff and Della for dinner, Ro takes a moment to compose herself, reflecting on the changes in her family and the town. She steps out of the hut, ready to face what remains of her family, aware of the heavy burden of the past and the uncertain future.

Ro joins Griff and Della for dinner at their former family home, a place now marked by the signs of neglect and the intrusion of the mine's industrial noise. The atmosphere is tense, with Ro feeling a sense of disorientation and unease as she navigates the unfamiliar layout of the kitchen, a stark contrast to the familiarity of the wooden table where they sit. The conversation is strained, focusing on mundane topics like Della's work, but beneath the surface, the weight of the town's decline and the absence of Sam looms heavily.

During the meal, Ro announces her intention to visit the site of the three abandoned houses the next day, a decision that catches Della and Griff off guard. Della declines to join, her response tinged with a hint of evasion that Ro notices. Griff, however, offers to accompany Ro, suggesting a shift in their dynamic and a tentative step towards reconnecting. The offer is accepted, and the evening concludes with a sense of unresolved tension and a glimpse of potential reconciliation.

After the meal, Ro reflects on the changes in the town and her family, particularly the distance that has grown between her and Griff since Sam's disappearance. She recalls a vivid memory of their early days together, a moment of connection that seems distant now. As she prepares for bed, Ro contemplates the upcoming visit to the abandoned houses, a place that holds significant emotional weight and unanswered questions.

Griff suggests taking two cars for the day's activities, explaining he might need to check the fire break later. Ro agrees, appreciating the flexibility to leave whenever she wants. In the quiet house, she reflects on the changes and the absence of her family's belongings, particularly in Sam's room, which is now bare and neutral.

At the site of the abandoned houses, Ro and Griff stand by the spot where Sam's rental car was found. Ro notices a flicker of movement near the ivy cottage and sees Ann-Marie Birstock, who owns a nearby rented house, beckoning them over despite being warned not to enter the abandoned properties. Griff, frustrated but resigned, decides to go up and warn her again.

The memory of the night Sam disappeared resurfaces, recounting the initial police questioning and the community's involvement in the search. Ro and Griff recall the officer's questions about Sam's hiking habits and the ownership of the abandoned houses, including the tragic history of Griff's cousin Warren Hillary, who committed suicide at the quarry. The officer's inquiry into Sam's mental health is a painful reminder of the uncertainty and fear they faced.

Griff and Ro arrive at the ivy cottage, where they find Ann-Marie and her son Jacob. Ann-Marie is determined to clear the overgrown ivy despite the dangers, and Griff expresses concern for her safety, highlighting the town's isolation and the lack of immediate help in case of emergencies. Ro and Ann-Marie share a brief, heartfelt conversation about Ro's return and the upcoming memorial for Sam, which has become an annual ritual involving the community. Ann-Marie also reveals that Griff's contract has not been renewed, adding another layer of tension to the visit.

Griff and Ro drive away from the ivy cottage, Griff still voicing his concerns about Ann-Marie's safety. At a three-way fork in the road, Griff hesitates before deciding to head to the Hillary house, the former home of his cousin Warren. The house, now in a state of severe disrepair, stands as a stark reminder of the past, with broken windows and sagging boards. Ro reflects on a photograph of Griff, Warren, and Damien from years ago, a moment of youthful camaraderie that now seems distant and lost.

As they inspect the rear of the house, Griff discovers significant damage caused by fallen branches, which have crashed through the roof and floorboards. Ro feels a sense of unease as she notices dozens of cockatoos perched in a towering gum tree, their presence adding to the eerie atmosphere. The house, neglected and decaying, serves as a poignant symbol of the town's decline and the personal losses the characters have endured.

Ro wanders to the front of the house, recalling the last time Griff and Sam visited Warren, a visit that ended tragically with Warren's suicide. Her thoughts turn to her own recent past, specifically the death of her father, Sam, whose sudden and violent passing left her deeply shaken. The funeral had been a painful blur. The chapter delves into the events leading up to Warren's suicide, including Griff's missed call and the subsequent discovery of Warren's abandoned house.

Griff's reluctance to maintain the house is a reflection of his unresolved grief and the desire to preserve the memory of Warren and Sam. Despite the emotional weight of the visit, Griff decides to leave the repairs for another time, turning away from the house without a backward glance. Ro follows him, understanding the depth of his pain and the complexity of their shared history.

Griff and Ro part ways at the end of their drive, with Ro deciding to walk the trail while Griff plans to check the fire break later. The trail is overgrown and neglected, evoking a sense of enclosure and isolation. Ro reflects on the many times she has walked this path with her family, noting the subtle changes in the landscape and the absence of the usual birdsong, replaced by the low growl of the mine and the mechanical buzz of a drone, likely operated by Darcy, Noel’s assistant.

Ro’s mind drifts to the night Sam disappeared, considering the various theories and her own hopes that he might have wandered into the bushland and gotten lost. She also contemplates the darker possibility that Sam’s disappearance was intentional, driven by a desire to escape. The chapter delves into Sam’s recent past, revealing that he had recently ended a relationship and was taking antidepressants, information unknown to Ro and Griff at the time. These revelations add layers of complexity to the mystery of Sam’s disappearance.

The conversation shifts to Warren’s tragic suicide, with Ro recalling the discovery of his truck and body at the mine. Griff mentions the changes made to the mine’s security following Warren’s death, and the impact it had on both of them. Ro and Griff’s shared grief and the counseling sessions they attended are discussed, highlighting the deep emotional toll of Warren’s death on their family.

As they continue walking, Ro brings up Ann-Marie’s mention of Griff’s contract ending, leading to a tense conversation about the future. Griff reveals that his contract is ending in three months, which means they will have to leave the house. Ro tries to offer support, acknowledging the practical reasons for selling the house, but the news leaves both of them feeling a profound sense of loss and uncertainty about what lies ahead.

Ro returns home alone to find Della missing, triggering a wave of anxiety and fear reminiscent of the trauma surrounding Sam’s disappearance. A reassuring text from Della eases her immediate worry, but Ro remains unsettled. She reflects on the hidden garden behind the sheds, once a place of solace, now dead and dry, symbolizing the decay and loss in her life. Retreating to her hut, Ro finds a stack of photos left by Griff, a tangible reminder of their impending departure from the house. The looming end of Griff’s contract and the subsequent need to leave weigh heavily on her, filling her with grief and overwhelming emotion. To distract herself, Ro revisits the drone footage from the day Sam disappeared, meticulously analyzing the images in the hope of finding some clue, but ultimately finds nothing new. Della returns home, and Ro learns that she spoke with Griff about the end of his contract. Della takes a pragmatic view on leaving, acknowledging that it’s time to move on, while Ro grapples with a mix of emotions, including relief and sadness. Della suggests they attend the pub opening that evening, and Ro agrees, seeing it as an opportunity to reconnect with the community before the memorial for Sam. The chapter ends with Ro contemplating the names in Sam’s notebook and the drone footage, still searching for answers to her son’s disappearance.

Della drives Ro and Griff to the pub, where they encounter Damien, who has dropped by to say hello before his scheduled call with the UK. Damien’s polished appearance and smooth demeanor stand in stark contrast to the rough edges of Carralon Ridge, and Ro reflects on the complex relationship between Damien and her son, Sam. Damien had been the last person to see Sam alive, and his movements on the day of Sam’s disappearance remain a source of tension and speculation, though Ro has ultimately chosen to trust him. Damien shares a brief update on his work and mentions the ongoing issues with the Hillary house, which has been damaged by fallen branches. He expresses gratitude for Griff’s willingness to address the repairs. The conversation turns to the past, revealing Damien’s guilt over his role in Warren’s death and his decision to stay in Carralon. Ro observes the strained dynamics between Damien and Ann-Marie, particularly as Jacob’s resemblance to Damien becomes more pronounced, hinting at a deeper, unresolved family secret. Ann-Marie and Jacob join the group, and the conversation shifts to the pub’s reopening. Ann-Marie’s neutral greeting and Jacob’s indifference underscore the tension between them and Damien. As Damien departs, Ro reflects on the lost opportunities and the complex web of relationships that have shaped the town’s decline. The group enters the pub, and Ro contemplates the significance of Damien’s presence and the lingering questions about Sam’s disappearance.

Ro and Heather reunite at the pub, sharing a tight hug and exchanging pleasantries. Despite Heather's attempts to maintain a positive facade, Ro notices the strain around her eyes, a sign of the difficulties she faces at home. Heather explains that Darcy, her eldest son, is not present and that her younger sons, Kyle and Zach, have been acting out, prompting Darcy to stay behind to watch over them. Ro feels a pang of guilt for not having been more supportive over the past five years, reflecting on the deep bond they formed during their university days and the early mornings they spent walking and talking.

Ro wakes up in the studio hut, her head throbbing and the low-frequency rumble from the mine permeating the space. Noise-canceling headphones help dull the sound, but the vibrations persist. Reflecting on the previous evening at the pub, Ro feels a mix of relief and sadness, noticing the subtle changes in the town and the people she once knew well. The conversation at the pub had been fragmented, and Ro realized how much she had missed in the years she was away.

At the pub, Ro reflects on the changes in the place where she once celebrated her marriage. The energy and spirit that once filled the room have faded as the people who gave it life have left, one by one. Ro feels a wave of loss but pushes it aside as she joins Heather, Griff, Noel, and Bernie at the bar.

Noel greets Ro with a tired smile, a shadow of the enthusiastic welcome he used to give her. His physical appearance hints at the toll the town's decline has taken on him. Bernie, once a robust and active figure in the community, now sits quietly, his health visibly failing. Ro senses a layer of frost beneath the warmth of their greetings, a subtle indication of the tensions that have developed between those who stayed and those who left. She thinks about Damien, who waits outside the pub, and the impact of the mine's expansion on Bernie's decision to sell his home.

Sylvie, the bartender, offers Ro a mediocre pinot, and Ro accepts, joining the conversation with Heather and Ann-Marie. Sylvie’s presence brings back memories of Sam’s interactions with her in the week before his disappearance, particularly the notes in his notebook that Ro often revisits. Ro notices Della sitting with Jacob in a corner, engaged in a one-sided conversation. The scene evokes a sense of unresolved tension and lingering questions about the town’s past and future.

As the evening progresses, Ro contemplates the upcoming memorial for Sam and the uncertain plans for her remaining time in Carralon. Sylvie’s warm but brief interaction with Ro hints at a deeper complexity in the town’s social dynamics, suggesting that even those who seem welcoming have their own reservations and secrets.

Ro wakes up in the studio hut, her head pounding and the low-frequency rumble from the mine permeating the space. Noise-canceling headphones help dull the sound, but the vibrations persist. Reflecting on the previous evening at the pub, she feels a mix of relief and sadness, noticing the subtle changes in the town and the people she once knew well. The conversation at the pub had been fragmented, and Ro realized how much she had missed in the years she was away, from the town’s deteriorating infrastructure to personal news like Ann-Marie’s ex getting remarried.

Della drives Ro and Griff back home in silence. Ro asks Della about her conversation with Jacob earlier, sensing that Della is lying about the details. Later, in the hut, Ro opens Sam’s laptop and reviews his research notes and interviews. She focuses on Damien’s statement to the police, noting his self-justification for selling the Hillary house and his attempts to rationalize the decision. Ro also reads interviews with Noel, Heather, and others, observing the varying perspectives on Carralon’s decline and the impact of the mine’s expansion.

Ro reflects on the day of Sam’s disappearance, recalling the mundane tasks that kept her from saying a proper goodbye. She reads through Sam’s notes, including a cryptic note about Sylvie and Warren, which she believes Sylvie is lying about. Ro’s hope for answers remains, though dimmed, as she continues to search for clues about Sam’s fate.

The chapter ends with Ro feeling a deep sense of exhaustion, both physical and emotional, as she grapples with the town’s decay and the unresolved mystery of her son’s disappearance.

The morning after the pub visit, Della waits for Ro at the steps of the hut. As Ro crosses the lawn with a piece of cold toast and a collection of screwdrivers, Della watches curiously, wondering about her intentions. Ro explains she’s trying to remove a small, colorful mirror from the wall, intending to give it to Heather as a gesture of comfort. Della seems disappointed but agrees to let Ro take it, suggesting it would look good in Heather’s saloon. Ro, aware of Della’s reluctance, wonders if Della wanted the mirror for herself but dismisses the thought.

As Ro works on removing the mirror, Della asks if she can accompany her to Heather’s place. Ro, sensing Della’s hesitation, presses her for the reason. Della admits she wants to see Darcy, but denies any romantic interest, explaining that she needs to ask him about something she overheard. Ro, immediately suspicious, questions if it’s related to Sam’s disappearance. Della, trying to reassure her, insists it’s not about Sam and pleads for a chance to gather her facts before sharing more. Ro, recognizing her daughter’s concern, agrees to wait, feeling a mix of guilt and desperation.

Ro reflects on her daughter’s wariness, realizing it’s not hope but a deep, tired desperation that she sees in her own reflection. The chapter ends with Ro standing in the doorway, watching Della walk away, feeling the weight of the town’s decay and the unresolved mystery of Sam’s disappearance.

Ro and Della arrive at Heather's farmhouse, where Heather greets them after a run. Despite her strong gait, Heather’s demeanor now carries a grim determination, a reflection of the town’s decline. Inside, the house is quiet except for the sounds of Zach and Kyle engrossed in a video game. Heather’s attempts to get their attention are met with indifference, and the tension escalates when she grabs the remote. Kyle mutters an insult, and Heather reacts with a mix of anger and embarrassment. Ro and Della retreat to the kitchen, where Ro presents Heather with a mirror as a gift for the saloon. Heather, grateful but troubled, confides in Ro about the challenges of raising the boys in the isolated, decaying town.

As the first anniversary of Sam’s disappearance approaches, Ro finds herself increasingly drawn to the three abandoned houses, unable to resist the pull despite her resolve to return home directly after work. One evening, she sits in the back garden of the old stone bungalow, reminiscing about the town’s happier days, particularly the wedding of Heather and Noel. Her reverie is interrupted by the arrival of Bernie, who warns her about recent signs of trespassers in the area. Bernie inspects damage to a board covering the dining room window, which appears to have been tampered with. He shares his memories of Sam, praising his respectful and patient nature during interviews. Ro is touched by Bernie’s words and the support he offers, even as he reflects on the possibility of demolishing the abandoned houses to prevent further danger. Ro and Bernie share a moment of mutual understanding and respect for Sam’s legacy.

Later, Ro joins Heather and Noel, who are grappling with the stress of raising their sons, Zach and Kyle, in the declining town. Heather confides in Ro about the challenges of caring for Bernie, whose health is failing, and the family’s reluctance to leave the town. Despite the hardships, Bernie remains resolute in his decision to stay in Carralon Ridge, a choice that profoundly affects the family’s future. Ro and Heather discuss the pros and cons of leaving, with Heather ultimately deciding to stay for Bernie’s sake, though she worries about the impact on her sons.

The chapter concludes with Ro, Heather, and Noel heading to the saloon to hang the mirror Ro brought. Heather expresses her gratitude for Ro’s continued visits, acknowledging the emotional toll of returning to the town. Ro, while dreading the visits, finds solace in reconnecting with old friends and the town’s history, even as she acknowledges the challenges and pain that come with it.

Ro and Heather drive to the Last Chance Saloon, a unique structure built by Noel over the years, using salvaged items from abandoned homes. Once a vibrant space, the saloon now feels neglected and stale, mirroring the town’s decline. Noel, visibly affected by the space, explains that the kids are no longer interested, and the memories weigh heavily on him.

While Noel and Ro prepare to hang the mirror, they hear a commotion from the main house. Heather rushes to handle the situation, leaving Ro and Noel alone. Noel’s demeanor suggests he’s struggling, and Ro notices the faint smell of alcohol on him. They discuss the challenges of raising the boys and the town’s decay, touching on Griff’s potential departure due to the end of his contract with the mine.

Noel and Ro reflect on the town’s history and the personal sacrifices they’ve made to stay. Noel is adamant about remaining, despite the difficulties, citing their deep roots and the cherished relics preserved in the saloon. As Heather returns, visibly upset, she and Noel exchange worried glances, and Della signals her disapproval from a distance. Ro, sensing the tension, decides it’s best to leave, squeezing Heather’s hand in a show of support.

Della and Ro drive away from Heather's farmhouse, the tension between them palpable as they discuss the challenging behavior of Zach and Kyle. Della, particularly frustrated, criticizes the boys' disrespect towards Heather, attributing their actions to boredom. Ro remains neutral, but Della's frustration is evident.

The conversation shifts to Darcy, who has become increasingly reserved and uncommunicative. Della reveals a troubling story from Meaghan Austin, a former classmate, about a night when Darcy, Jacob, and Meaghan were drinking at the creek. Darcy became angry when Meaghan joked about Jacob living in a haunted house, leading to a physical altercation where Darcy hit Jacob. Meaghan suggested that Darcy felt guilty about something, and Jacob confirmed it, hinting that Darcy's actions may have contributed to Warren's suicide.

Della has tried to confront Darcy and Jacob about the incident, but both men have been evasive and uncooperative. Della wonders if Sam was also involved, given the proximity of Sam's disappearance to Warren's suicide and the location where Sam's car was found near Warren's property. Ro reflects on the town's decline and the lack of answers surrounding Sam's disappearance, sharing her own theories and the emotional toll it has taken on the family.

The chapter concludes with Della expressing her hope that whatever happened to Sam was quick and that he did not suffer. She also reveals her thoughts on her parents' separation, suggesting that they need to talk honestly about their grief and how they handled it differently. As they pass by the turnoff to the three houses and the spot where Sam's car was found, both women silently reflect on the past, their minds heavy with unresolved questions.

Ro returns to the house, finding Griff in the shed, methodically clearing out old belongings. The atmosphere is heavy with unspoken tension, and Ro feels a pang of guilt for not having helped sooner. She joins Griff, and together they sort through the clutter, each item stirring painful memories. A vintage pinball machine and a child’s bike stand out, relics of a happier time now marred by loss. As they dig deeper, Ro discovers a box of Christmas decorations, one of which bears the fingerprints of Sam and Della, a silent testament to their past. Among Sam’s old belongings, they find Warren’s running medals, a bittersweet reminder of his achievements. Griff, breaking the silence, reveals that Darcy and Jacob were seen together near the quarry on the night Sam disappeared, adding another layer of mystery to the already complex web of events.

Ro sits in the hut, surrounded by the medal collection she and Griff discovered in the shed. Each piece evokes memories of Warren’s home, a place that had remained largely unchanged since his parents’ deaths. Damien had eventually cleared out the house, selling its contents and offering a portion of the proceeds to Griff, who declined. Ro contemplates the value of the items, wondering if Sam could have taken something valuable if he had intended to do so.

Opening her laptop, Ro reviews Sam’s interview files, starting with the interviews of Zach and Kyle. The boys express their boredom and frustration with the town’s decline, hoping their parents would eventually decide to move. She then reads Sam’s interview with Darcy and Jacob, noting their pride in their families’ contributions to Carralon Ridge, but also their underlying frustration with the town’s current state. The interview touches on their schooling, the town’s offerings, and the lack of job opportunities. Ro senses a hidden depth in the conversation, a hint of a shared secret, but cannot pinpoint it definitively.

Her reflections lead her to ponder whether she is projecting her own desperation to uncover answers onto the interviews. Despite reading the transcripts multiple times, she remains uncertain if there is a deeper meaning or if the boys’ words are simply a straightforward account of their lives in Carralon Ridge. The chapter ends with Ro’s unresolved thoughts and the lingering sense of a mystery that remains unsolved.

Della visits Ro in the hut, expressing concern about Griff's demeanor. Ro decides to check on him and finds him at the Hillary house, cutting down a branch that had fallen on Warren’s porch. The scene is poignant, as Griff works alone, maintaining the property that holds so many painful memories. Ro offers to help, and they work together, cutting and clearing the branches.

As they work, Ro reflects on the history of the house and the memories it holds. She enters the house, walking through the dusty, abandoned rooms, and stops at the study, where she notices the bullet holes and faded outlines of where Warren’s father’s medal collection had been displayed. The room is filled with a sense of loss and the weight of untold stories. Ro’s thoughts drift to Sam, imagining his final moments in the house.

While helping Griff remove a particularly stubborn branch, Ro notices a small glint fall into the gap created by the broken floorboards. She retrieves a small key from the debris, and both Ro and Griff realize the significance of the discovery. The chapter ends with a sense of unease and the potential for new revelations about the town’s secrets and the fate of Sam.

Ro and Griff sit around the firepit with Della and Damien, the air thick with the weight of their recent discoveries. They discuss the bloodstains found at Warren’s house and the key Ro discovered, which seems to hold a significant connection to the stains. Despite testing the key on various locks around the property, they find no match. Damien voices his concerns about Sylvie’s behavior regarding the sale of the Hillary house, suggesting she may have ulterior motives. Griff recalls the unusual state of Warren’s barbecue the day he and Sam found the house empty, adding another layer of mystery to the evening’s conversation.

Ro lies awake in her hut, disturbed by a dream and the relentless wind. She wakes to find Griff already gone, leaving a note that he would be on the ridge watching for spot fires. After a quick breakfast, Ro drives to the center of town, stopping at the pub where Sylvie has not yet arrived. With a sense of urgency, she tests the key with the cockatoo key ring on various locks around the town, including the pub, the former bank, and the old pharmacy, but finds no matches.

Her search leads her to Damien's town house, where she hesitates before testing the key. It fits, but does not turn, leaving her with a mix of guilt and relief. As she steps back, she hears Sylvie's car approaching and notices the woman has been crying. Concerned, Ro decides to approach the conversation gently, asking about Sylvie's mother who had a mini-stroke. Sylvie invites Ro into the pub, and they share coffee as the wind howls outside.

Ro shows Sylvie the key and photos of the bloodstains on Warren’s deck, hoping for answers. Sylvie appears genuinely distressed and claims ignorance, but Ro persists, showing Sam’s notebook with a note about Warren and Lentzer. Ro confronts Sylvie about her continued presence in Carralon Ridge despite her mother’s condition, suggesting it might be due to guilt. Finally, Sylvie agrees to tell Ro what she knows, but only for Warren’s sake.

Sylvie's voice trembles as she confesses to Ro that she feels partially responsible for Warren's suicide. She explains that she had pressured Warren to sell the Hillary house to the mining company, Lentzer, to support her ailing mother in a nearby care home. Despite the lucrative offer, Warren refused, leading to intense arguments and a strained relationship. The tension escalated to the point where Sylvie moved out of the house temporarily as a form of protest.

Sylvie recounts the last conversation she had with Warren, which was heated and ended poorly. She admits that she never shared the full extent of this conversation with anyone, including the police, out of shame and respect for Warren's privacy. However, she reveals that Sam, who visited Carralon Ridge three years later, somehow knew about Warren's decision to sell the house. This revelation shocks Ro, who realizes that Sam's knowledge of this crucial information might have deeper implications for the town's secrets.

Sylvie's confession adds a layer of complexity to Warren's suicide, highlighting the personal and financial pressures he faced. It also raises questions about how Sam obtained this sensitive information, suggesting that there might be more to discover about the town's past and the people involved.

Feeling uncertain about Sylvie's confession, Ro reaches out to Griff to discuss the new information. She recounts Sylvie's admission that she had pressured Warren to sell the Hillary house and their final heated conversation, which ended poorly. Together, Ro and Griff speculate on why Sylvie never shared this information with anyone, including the police, and consider the possibility that Warren might have confided in someone else about his decision to sell, leading to the spread of rumors. As they talk, Ro hears mysterious banging sounds and decides to investigate, asking Griff to watch her from the ridge.

Driven by a mysterious noise, Ro heads to the abandoned medical center where she used to work. Hiding behind a sign, she listens to the muffled voices and movements inside, feeling a wave of nostalgia and loss as she recalls her past. She texts Griff to inform him of her location and the intruders, then decides to investigate further, stepping out from her hiding spot and peering through a window into her old office.

Inside, Ro witnesses Kyle and Zach, the sons of Heather and Noel, destroying the filing cabinet and other fixtures with a cricket bat. The boys seem more determined than excited, and Ro confronts them, expressing her disappointment and concern. She learns that the boys often sneak into town to vandalize buildings, a destructive outlet for their frustration with the town's decline. Ro offers to drive them home, and during the ride, Zach confides in her about his father's alcoholism and the family's internal struggles.

At the farmhouse, Ro decides to speak with Darcy about the boys' behavior and other pressing matters. She finds Bernie working on the Last Chance Saloon, and they have a candid conversation about end-of-life care and the family's ties to Carralon Ridge. Bernie insists that staying in the town is his choice, not a burden imposed on his family. Ro leaves the conversation feeling conflicted but respects Bernie's decision.

On her way back to her car, Ro sees Darcy and Jacob chatting and laughing, a scene that stirs a mix of emotions in her. She confronts them about Della's inquiries, but the interaction is brief and tense. Before leaving, Ro tests the key from Warren’s porch on the lock of Darcy’s family home, but it does not fit. She drives off, aware that the two men are watching her.

Ro returns from the abandoned medical center, her mind heavy with the recent events and the pressure Warren faced. She stands where Sam’s car was found, contemplating the possibilities of what might have troubled Sam that day. As a service truck from the mine approaches and passes by, Ro considers how Sam might have reacted to strangers or familiar faces in the area, given the town’s dwindling population and the increased suspicion towards outsiders.

After the truck disappears, Ro contemplates the conflicting pressures on Warren, including the demands from Sylvie, Damien, and the mining company. She reflects on the town’s communal support and the limits of that support, especially when individual interests diverge. Ro’s thoughts turn to the isolation and boredom of the teenagers, particularly Zach and Kyle, and the broader impact of the town’s decline on families.

Her reflection deepens, and a new insight emerges, connecting the town’s issues with her own experiences. As she drives back to the road, she spots Jacob on a bicycle, looking both surprised and unsurprised to see her. Jacob admits he was on his way to see her and acknowledges that Sam would have told if it was his mother asking. Ro invites Jacob to her place, suspecting a connection to the running medals, and they load his bike into her car to head back.

Ro and the young man, Jacob, arrive at the house, where Damien and Griff are waiting. Damien appears visibly shaken by Griff’s earlier news about Sylvie’s claims regarding Warren. Jacob hesitates but finally agrees to share his side of the story, recounting the boredom and frustration he and his friends, Darcy and Sam, felt growing up in Carralon. He describes the pranks they played on the townspeople, including Warren, which ranged from minor annoyances to more serious acts of vandalism. Jacob admits to moving Warren’s tools, turning his TV on and off at night, and stealing his sports medals, which Darcy had hidden. He explains that they thought Warren could handle their pranks, unaware of the extent of his distress. Ro and the others are shocked by the revelations, and Griff, in particular, seems deeply affected. Damien shares his own memories of Warren’s youthful mischief, suggesting that Warren might have understood the pranks better than they thought. The conversation shifts when Griff realizes that Damien might have mentioned Warren’s carvings to Sam during their last interview. This detail was omitted from Damien’s police report, raising questions about the thoroughness of the investigation. Griff becomes increasingly focused, urging Damien to recall the specifics of his conversation with Sam. The group decides to investigate the carvings further, and Griff leads them to a location where they can see the marks for themselves.

Ro, Griff, and Della take Griff’s truck to the stone bungalow, still reeling from the revelations about Warren’s past. Griff leads them to the back of the house, showing them a small, circular carving with two dots for eyes and a zigzag mouth, hidden at the base of a wooden post. Della confirms that she has seen similar carvings at the Hillary house, and they continue to find more carvings around the property, each one adding to the eerie atmosphere of the abandoned town.

As they follow the pattern of Sam’s footsteps from five years ago, Ro and Griff reflect on the significance of the carvings and the possibility that Sam was searching for them on the day he disappeared. Ro feels a mix of relief and disappointment that the reason for Sam’s visit might be so mundane. Griff suggests that Sam might have been seeking a form of closure after learning about the carvings, which could have provided some comfort knowing that Warren also engaged in mischievous behavior as a teenager.

The group moves to the ivy cottage, where they find more carvings and follow the path Sam might have taken through the house. Della, visibly distressed, walks away to the back fence, prompting Ro and Griff to sit on the verandah and discuss their feelings about the town and their son’s disappearance. Griff opens up about his struggle with grief and his perception of Ro’s coping mechanisms, leading to a moment of mutual understanding and apology.

As Della returns, still visibly upset, the chapter ends with the family’s shared sense of loss and the haunting realization that despite their efforts, the mystery of Sam’s disappearance remains unresolved.

The morning of Sam’s birthday dawns with a bittersweet reunion between Ro and Griff. As the clock ticks towards midnight, Ro sits in the hut, reflecting on the night Sam was born and the kindness of the hospital staff, as well as Griff’s nervous presence. The day is a mix of emotions, compounded by the recent discoveries about Sam’s disappearance and Warren’s past. Ro feels increasingly disconnected from the certainties she once held, and the family’s silence at dinner underscores the weight of their shared grief.

Later, Ro finds a packet of sunflower seeds labeled in Sam’s handwriting and decides to plant them in the garden. She retrieves a trowel from the shed and heads to the garden, only to discover that it has been transformed into a thriving, well-maintained space filled with resilient plants. The garden, once overgrown and abandoned, now includes a climbing jasmine arch, reminiscent of their wedding day. Ro is deeply moved by this gesture, recognizing it as Griff’s way of preserving a piece of their past.

Feeling a renewed connection to Griff, Ro returns to the house and joins him in their bedroom. They share a moment of reconciliation, apologizing for their respective choices—Griff for staying in Carralon and Ro for leaving. The chapter ends with a sense of tentative hope and the possibility of healing, as Ro and Griff embrace, reaffirming their bond.

The morning of Sam’s birthday is a bittersweet reunion for Ro and Griff, who share a tender moment reflecting on the passage of time and the weight of their shared grief. The anniversary marks both the joy of Sam’s birth and the pain of his disappearance, casting a heavy shadow over the day. Ro, Griff, and Della each cope in their own ways: Griff checks the ridge, Della retreats to her room, and Ro aimlessly moves through the house, trying to find a purpose. Ro takes the keys from Damien and compares them with Warren’s key, finding no match, a disappointment that barely registers. She retreats to the revitalized garden, planting sunflower seeds under the wedding arch, a symbolic act of remembrance. As the hour approaches when she last saw Sam, Ro and Della begin to prepare the same chocolate cake they make every year on this day, a ritual that provides a semblance of normalcy and comfort. Later, the family gathers to light the birthday candles, a tradition that has become a yearly observance. As Ro gazes at the flames, a faint, elusive thought flickers in her mind, hinting at a memory or a dream. Despite her attempts to grasp it, the thought slips away, and the family blows out the candles, Ro making the same wish she always does. The chapter concludes with the family preparing to leave for the memorial, a silent acknowledgment of their enduring loss and the hope for some form of closure.

The family arrives at the memorial site for Sam’s birthday, finding a small crowd already gathered. Ann-Marie greets them, warning Ro about Heather’s desire to apologize for her sons’ vandalism at the medical center. Ro, feeling a mix of guilt and weariness, agrees to hear the apology later. The Buckleys and other familiar faces are present, including Jacob and Darcy, who seem to be having a heated discussion. Darcy unexpectedly speaks at the memorial, expressing his desire to leave Carralon.

The memorial concludes abruptly, but Sylvie steps in to announce that the pub will open shortly, helping to ease the tension. Ro thanks her as they both lead the group down the track. Along the way, Ro notices Della being cornered by Jacob and Darcy, who are discussing their plans to pursue remote education. Della appears overwhelmed but manages to break free, urging Ro and Griff to join her at the pub to avoid spending the entire evening with Jacob and Darcy.

After Della leaves with Jacob and Darcy, Ro, Griff, Bernie, and Noel remain at the memorial site. Bernie, visibly grieving, contemplates his decision to stay in Carralon, reflecting on Darcy’s recent announcement about leaving. Noel, supporting his father, suggests that perhaps it’s time for a change, acknowledging that many people, including himself, have stayed for the wrong reasons. Bernie and Noel eventually depart, leaving Ro and Griff alone.

Alone, Ro and Griff reflect on the day’s events and their reasons for staying in Carralon. Griff admits that his guilt and self-punishment have kept him there, and Ro comforts him, suggesting they focus on moving forward. They kneel at the spot where they last saw Sam’s car, saying their goodbyes and expressing their love. Ro, feeling a sudden clarity, remembers a key they found at Warren’s house and realizes its significance.

The chapter ends with Ro holding the key, a realization dawning on her about its potential connection to Sam’s disappearance. The atmosphere is tense, with the mine groaning and the wind howling, as Ro and Griff stand together, facing the unknown.

Warren paces the kitchen, his phone pressed to his ear as Sylvie’s voice crackles through the line, filled with anger and tears. She is devastated by his decision to sell the Hillary house, and despite his attempts to explain and apologize, she remains inconsolable. Warren’s heart aches with regret and fear, reflecting on the years of happiness they shared and the dark shadow cast by Lentzer’s arrival. His thoughts are interrupted by the need to tend to the barbecue, but his mind remains preoccupied with the conversation and the weight of his decision.

Feeling increasingly isolated, Warren tries to reach Damien and Griff for support, but both calls go unanswered. He prepares his dinner, hoping to calm his nerves, but the silence of the house only amplifies his anxiety. As he stands outside, the night air cool and heavy, he hears a noise and turns to see a figure standing on his verandah, silhouetted against the light from the hallway. The figure greets him, mentioning that the front door was wide open, adding a layer of unease to an already tense evening.

Ro and Griff drive back to Carralon Ridge in silence, the desolate landscape reinforcing the sense of isolation and impending abandonment. The car windows are streaked, and the darkness deepens, amplifying Ro’s feeling that they might be the last ones left in the town. The road stretches endlessly, and the only signs of life come from the pub, which glows like an oasis in the distance.

As they approach the crossroads, they see Della at the bar, surrounded by familiar faces. Ro and Griff decide it’s best to let her stay, knowing the pub offers a rare moment of normalcy and community. They pass by without stopping, the music and laughter fading into the night. The journey continues in silence, the weight of their thoughts pressing heavily on them.

Finally, they reach their destination. Griff pulls to a stop and turns off the engine, the darkness enveloping them. Ro expresses doubt about the future of Carralon, but Griff, determined, urges her to face the unknown. They sit for a moment, contemplating the stillness around them, before Griff decides it’s time to act.

Sam Crowley, returning to his rental car after visiting the three houses, notices a fleeting movement in the sky. He suspects it might be Darcy’s drone, which Darcy had mentioned flying near the mine for photos. Reflecting on the changes in his friendship with Darcy and Jacob, Sam notes that the once intense bond has evolved into a lighter, more casual relationship, which suits him better now. As he prepares to leave, memories of his earlier interview with Damien resurface, revealing that the carved faces scattered around the three houses were Warren’s creations. This realization brings a sense of relief and understanding, as Sam feels less guilty about the pranks he and his friends played on Warren and others. He realizes that Warren, too, was a bored kid who did stupid things. Sam’s thoughts are interrupted by the sound of a distant engine. Recognizing the approaching car, he waves to the driver, who stops to greet him. Sam walks over, ready to engage in conversation, marking a moment of unexpected social interaction in the otherwise isolated setting.

The grinding and groaning from the mine resonated in Ro’s head as she and Griff exited the car, the sound intensifying their sense of unease. They approached the door they had come for, their steps slowing as they neared, both reluctant yet determined. The door, plain and solid, bore the marks of time—scratches on the paintwork, a tarnished brass knocker, and a keyhole that seemed just right. Ro, hands trembling, retrieved the key from her pocket and attempted to insert it, fumbling with the lock. Griff’s hand covered hers, providing stability and support, and together they turned the key, the lock yielding with a satisfying click.

The moment the door opened, Ro felt a strange detachment, as if she were floating above, watching the scene unfold from a distance. The sudden silence of the mine, a rare interruption in the constant mechanical noise, brought her back to reality. In the brief lull, Ro and Griff heard a faint sound, a soft crunch of footsteps approaching. The noise was barely audible, but it was enough to alert them, and Griff’s grip on Ro’s hand tightened. Together, they turned away from the open door, their attention drawn to the source of the sound, the industrial noise starting up again in the background.

Ro and Griff stand at the entrance of the Last Chance Saloon, the musty smell of relics and artifacts enveloping them. Noel approaches, his expression cautious and wary as he greets them. He mentions that his father found the pub too overwhelming and has returned home, and he seems surprised to see their car. His eyes dart to the key in Ro’s hand, then to the key ring he holds and the ceramic frog that hides the spare key.

Griff speaks up, mentioning the old blood they found on the boards at Warren’s porch. His tone is hopeful, as if seeking an easy explanation from Noel, a longtime friend. Noel’s reaction is guarded, suggesting they ask Sylvie about the blood. Griff and Ro exchange a look, knowing they have already spoken to Sylvie. Ro suggests asking Noel’s father directly when he arrives, emphasizing that the door belongs to him.

As they wait, the figure at the edge of the paddock begins to move closer. Ro’s hand runs over the blue-painted wood above the lock, reinforcing the connection to the past and the mysteries that lie within. The tension builds as the groaning from the mine fills the air, adding to the sense of unease and foreboding.

Eight years earlier, Warren confronts Bernie and Noel at his home, where Bernie accuses Warren of planning to sell his property. Warren, who has recently decided to sell, tries to maintain composure despite the emotional turmoil. Bernie, visibly upset, insists that Warren is selling and threatens that it will lead to the decline of the entire town, including Bernie’s own home. Warren, feeling the weight of his decision, attempts to reassure them but is met with disbelief and anger.

The conversation escalates as Bernie becomes more agitated, accusing Warren of betrayal and selfishness. Warren’s guilt and frustration boil over, leading to a heated exchange. Despite his resolve, Warren’s emotions waver as Bernie pleads with him, revealing the deep personal and historical significance of his home. Warren, torn between his loyalty to Sylvie and his community, tries to end the confrontation but is ultimately unable to diffuse the situation.

The tension reaches a breaking point when Bernie, in a fit of desperation, physically assaults Warren, knocking him to the ground. Warren, dazed and bleeding, lies on the deck, feeling the gravity of his decision and the potential consequences for his friends and the town. The chapter ends with a sense of impending doom and the realization that Warren’s choice will have far-reaching effects.

Still reeling from the weight of the past, Bernie takes responsibility for the events that led to Warren’s death, explaining that it was his fault and that he will tell the story. Noel objects briefly but acquiesces as Bernie recounts the confrontation with Warren, his decision to sell, and the resulting physical assault. Noel then reveals that he drove Warren to the mine, cut the fence, and disposed of the body, while Bernie cleaned up the evidence at the house.

Griff reacts with a mix of shock and distress, moving to the window to collect himself. Ro, curious and troubled, questions why the key to the saloon was never found, and Bernie explains that it was lost under the house. Ro reveals that her discovery of the key was prompted by Darcy’s comments at the memorial, which led her to consider the role of guilt in keeping people in Carralon Ridge. She challenges Bernie and Noel, suggesting that their continued presence in the town is a form of penance for their actions.

Griff, deeply affected by the revelations, confronts Noel about the timing of his withdrawal from the saloon, noting that it coincides with Sam’s disappearance five years ago. Ro, sensing a deeper connection, feels a profound emotional pull towards a forgotten corner of the saloon, believing that Sam might have been there at some point, crying out for her.

Five years earlier, Noel spots Sam Crowley’s bright red rental car parked near the three abandoned houses. Concerned about the condition of the houses and the rough roads, Noel greets Sam, who has come to check out the houses for his research project. Noel offers to drive Sam to his house to pick up some old maps he had promised. During the drive, Sam mentions Bernie’s confusion about Warren selling his property to Lentzer, which Noel dismisses but feels uneasy about. As they reach the house, Noel confronts Sam about his knowledge of Warren and Sylvie’s plans, leading to a tense and ominous moment.

From the ridge overlooking Carralon, Ro, Griff, and Della stand in somber silence, reflecting on the town’s apparent normalcy despite the recent revelations. Ro feels a mix of numbness and a creeping sense of dread, while Griff struggles with overwhelming grief. Della, ever efficient, has organized the necessary legal and logistical responses, and Ro feels immense gratitude for her daughter’s strength and support.

Noel has called the police, and the town buzzes with activity as officers and media converge. Ro, Griff, and Della watch the commotion from a distance, noting the full pub car park and the gathered locals. They observe Sylvie, Damien, and Ann-Marie standing by the bushland hiking route, seemingly in deep conversation. Della mentions that these individuals have been trying to reach Ro and Griff, and she speculates about the future of Ann-Marie and Jacob.

Ro recalls an early morning encounter with an envelope left on her doorstep, containing a note and a photograph of Sam. The note, written by Zach, expresses his and his family’s sorrow and reassures Ro of their support. The photograph shows Sam smiling in a paddock, a reminder of his happiness during his last days in Carralon. Ro finds solace in this memory, feeling a quiet gratitude for the time Sam spent with his family and friends before his death.

One year after the tumultuous events at Carralon Ridge, Ro reflects on the profound changes in her life and the town. The three abandoned houses have been demolished, and the mine has constructed a new access road, symbolizing the town's attempt to move forward. Many residents, including Heather, have left Carralon; she and her sons relocated to Sydney, and Ro recalls their tearful farewell on an empty road, a poignant end to their friendship in Carralon.

Darcy and Jacob have settled in Blenheim, where they started a small agricultural services business with Damien's ongoing support. Damien, now based in Sydney, visits regularly to help Jacob. Ann-Marie has found a new career with the Royal Flying Doctor Service and enjoys a vibrant social life. Della, reflecting on her experiences, contemplates a career change and has begun a relationship with Matthew, a high school math teacher.

Ro and Griff have moved to a cozy cottage in a picturesque country town between Carralon and Sydney. They have found a sense of peace and community, and their new home feels welcoming. After careful consideration, they decided to scatter Sam’s ashes in their back paddock, a place that symbolizes both a new beginning and a way to honor Sam’s memory. The chapter concludes with Ro, Griff, and Della scattering Sam’s ashes, feeling a profound sense of closure and renewal.