Once they had said their goodbyes, Ruby set off for the train station in a thoughtful mood as she mused on what Betty had said. However, the windows of the shops she passed were glittering with Christmas decorations and the frosty streets had taken on a magical air, so soon she was so busy admiring them that she forgot all about it.

*

When she arrived back at Hermione’s house in Bedworth, she found the woman waiting for her, eager to hear all about how her day had gone. She was really enjoying having someone young in the house.

‘It was wonderful,’ Ruby told her, her eyes animated. ‘And while I was there, Mr Cushing sold at least two of the brooches I designed. He says one design in particular is proving to be very popular. So popular, in fact, that he’s ordered some to be made in silver for next year for those customers who can’t afford the gold version.’

‘I’m not surprised,’ the old woman told her. ‘And now I have some news for you. A letter arrived from Oscar today asking me – and you, of course – to spend Christmas with him. How do you feel about that?’

Ruby was surprised. ‘But what about Mrs B?’

Hermione waved her hand. ‘Oh, she’s more than happy with the idea; she’s going to spend it with her sister in Bulkington. The poor woman was recently widowed so she’ll be glad of the company.’

Ruby realised she didn’t have much say in the matter, although she was secretly pleased to think of spending time with Cook and Betty – and Bill, of course.

*

Two days before Christmas, Hermione and Ruby caught the train to Oscar’s house. ‘You will dine with me, Oscar and Walter – if he’s well enough – over Christmas,’ Hermione informed her as they rattled through the countryside.

Ruby shook her head. Sometimes she wasn’t really sure where she fitted in anymore, for although she was supposed to be Hermione’s companion, she still considered herself to be a servant, and she knew she would feel more comfortable dining in the kitchen with the rest of the staff, especially Bill. The thought of him brought a flush to her cheeks and she quickly gazed out of the window so Hermione wouldn’t see it as she replied, ‘That’s really kind of you but I think it might be best if I ate in the kitchen. I’m not family, after all.’

Hermione sniffed as she clutched the bag on her lap. She didn’t usually venture far from home these days and wasn’t enjoying the train ride at all, nor the cold weather, if it came to that. ‘As you wish,’ she said shortly and thankfully the subject was dropped.

They arrived at the house to find a number of Miranda’s trunks packed ready in the hall, although she wouldn’t be leaving until the next morning.