The Creek Crossing

This original practice scene uses Jess and Leslie from Bridge to Terabithia; it is not a passage from the novel. The rain had stopped, but the creek still rushed between the trail and the strip of woods Jess called his secret place. He stood at the bank, turning a length of rope in his hands. The old branch they usually crossed on was slick and half-submerged. Leslie crouched beside the water. “We could wait,” she said, “or we could find a safer way.” She studied the banks, then pointed to a broad, flat stone a few yards upstream. Jess tested it with one foot. It did not shift. He carried two more stones from the edge and set them in a line toward the other bank. Leslie held the rope taut while Jess crossed first, testing each step. When he reached the far side, he tied the rope around a sturdy tree and called, “Your turn.” Leslie crossed slowly, watching her feet. Neither of them hurried. On the other bank, Jess looked back at the stones. “That was my idea,” he said, sounding surprised. Leslie grinned. “And a good one.” She brushed mud from her hands. “Tomorrow, we can make a sign so nobody tries the old branch.” Jess tucked the rope under his arm. The crossing was not much to look at, but it felt like something they had made together.