It was Sunday, Annie’s one full day off, and the weather could only be described as awful. Even the most ardent wild-weather lover would be hard pressed to find inspiration in its utter bleakness. The wind and rain were sometimes working together, sometimes tag-teaming, without ever stopping for a break. The windows were running so thickly with rain that Annie could barely make out sea from sky from beach. Annie didn’t go out all day. Instead, she filled the slow cooker with the ingredients for a lamb hotpot, caught up on housework, and read for her book club. Though she didn’t show it, Annie was sure Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle was appreciative of her company. At three o’clock, she had a video call with Alex and Peter.

“Are you’re ready for the pre-Christmas Christmas party?” asked Alex.

“I think so, I’ve planned the food, and John’s going to help out . . .”

“John again!” said Alex. “Seems like we’ve heard a lot about John one way or another.”

“Is he friend or foe at the moment?” asked Peter.

Annie tried to look affronted, but in truth she secretly liked it when they ganged up on her like this.

“Mum’s walking that fine line between hate and desire!” said Alex.

Peter made retching noises.

“Anyway!” Annie cut in. “The village council organize the rest of the festivities, the processions and singing and the fires and stuff.”

“It’s a bit like you’ve stepped into the past, or a cult; have you seen The Wicker Man?” asked Peter.

Annie laughed. “It sounds pretty insular when I talk about it, but it’s really not like that. It’s just a community that didn’t forget how to be a community. They look after each other. It’s kind of nice.”

“And they have a lot of parties!” said Alex.

“They do have a lot of parties,” Annie agreed. “I’m sorry I haven’t been up to visit either of you. It’s been pretty full-on here.”

“So much for taking a step back,” said Alex.

“Don’t worry about it, Mum. Anyway, we’ve got a surprise for you . . .” said Peter.

“We’re coming down for the Christmas festival shindig!” said Alex.

“Oh my God, that’s amazing! I’m so happy you’re coming down for it. I can introduce you to everyone. Oh, you’ve really made my day.” Annie couldn’t stop smiling. “Is Greg coming too?”

“Yep, he’s coming with us.”

“Lovely,” said Annie. “And, Peter, will you be bringing anyone?”

“I’m between relationships at the moment,” said Peter with a wry smile.

“You haven’t had a relationship since Clemmy Pearson in year nine,” Alex snorted. “Your idea of getting serious with a woman is asking what her surname is.”

“He just hasn’t met the right girl yet,” said Annie.