CAROLS are playing softly, their melodies floating into the kitchen where Miranda is standing at the hob, gently stirring mulled wine. From the bubbling pot, the smell of cinnamon and clove wafts thro

RIGHT. I have come to a decision,” Mel said one weekend, as she cleared away the breakfast things. “In that case, I’m off. Bye, Mum, see you later!” “Wait, Seth. Stay exactly where you are! You have n

It was a new year and Tally was at a crossroads – in which direction should she go?

SOPHIE leaned close to examine the tree, her breath swirling in the freezing air like steam from a kettle. It was difficult to identify what tree it was at this time of year, when the branches were ba

Jane’s phone vibrated in her pocket and she got it out and glanced at it surreptitiously. It was January 6th, far too early for the baby to be on the way, but you never knew. Another two weeks until t

THE Janus Inn’s sign swung ominously in the gathering wind as Mairi and her bundle stood outside. Waiting for the coachman to appear, she looked towards the stout, ancient building, glad of the carous