‘That’ll be the absinthe again,’ whispered Blythe to Sam.
‘Here’s to those we love who are not here today,’ said Greg, raising his glass. ‘Very merry Christmas to you all.’
‘Merry Christmas,’ they chorused, including Sam. And they all clinked glasses.
‘One more thing,’ said Greg. ‘Crackers!’
‘Here we go,’ said Blythe, shaking her head, and Sam laughed.
They all tucked into the food, rolled their eyes at Greg as he belly-laughed at every cracker joke and watched the king’s speech; and Blythe fell asleep in Sam’s arms wearing a wonky cracker hat. It was exactly how Blythe believed Christmas should be.
EPILOGUE
26thDecember
Boxing Day
Boxing Day in the pub was always a bit manic, but meeting there was a Vicky and Blythe tradition, and this year they had an added incentive because Leonora was expecting an email from the Christmas competition judges.
Blythe heard her name above the chatter and turned to see Vicky waving from the door. Close behind her was Owen carrying a grinning Eden aloft. It was a sight to warm her heart. Blythe placed a drinks order as the others made their way through the crowd, which took a little while as every other person was greeting them. At last Vicky enveloped Blythe in a hug. ‘Happy Boxing Day!’ she said, holding Blythe tight.
‘And to you.’ Blythe tipped her head at Owen who was chatting to Norman. ‘How was your Christmas?’
‘A-maze-ing!’ said Vicky. ‘Thanks for the bath bombs, hoodie and the posh crackers.’
‘You’re welcome. Did Owen—’
‘A number of times,’ said Vicky.
‘I was going to say – stay for Christmas?’
‘Oh, right.’ Vicky giggled. ‘Yep. Turned up Christmas Eve with more presents than Santa. We talked aboutwho’s the daddyand it turns out he really doesn’t care. Anyway, here’s the scoop. He’s moving in!’
‘I’m so happy for you,’ said Blythe, as they hugged again.
‘Thanks. And once Owen has built up his business locally I’m going to reduce my hours at the factory.’
‘And the dog walking?’
‘I’m going to make sure I don’t take on too much because between me and you I’ve been relying on a couple of people in the village to help me out.’
‘You don’t say?’ said Blythe with a smile. ‘But I think some of your helpers have really enjoyed it so maybe offer to pay them a little something rather than lay them off,’ suggested Blythe.
‘Ooh, good idea.’ On her third attempt Vicky managed to perch on the bar stool.
‘Hiya, Blythe, we’re off to play pool’ said Owen, pointing up at Eden. Blythe handed him a pint and a glass of lemonade as he passed. ‘Ta,’ he said, taking them from her and catching a quick kiss from Vicky who visibly shivered at the contact.
‘Get a room,’ teased Blythe.
‘Sorry. I take it you didn’t get any festive action?’
‘Well—’
As if on cue Sam appeared and kissed her lightly on the lips. ‘Sorry I’m late. Turpin wouldn’t let me out of the utility room. He says thank you for his Christmas dinner doggy bag by the way.’
‘That was all Mum’s doing, although I don’t think her alternative suggestion of calling it a pussy bag will catch on,’ said Blythe, cringing at the memory.
‘I think you have some explaining to do,’ said Vicky, looking primly at the two of them. ‘I do not like being last to know juicy gossip.’
