To be fair, she supposed they were unusual and something of a peculiarity, but she felt this was a good thing. At one time she had felt stuck between two worlds and that she fitted in nowhere but she and Edward had created their own world, with their own rules. It was one where class and wealth and social niceties had no relevance whatsoever; they were equals in every respect. They worked together and supported each other in a way she could never have envisaged years ago when she had sent him away, and they were determined to mirror their way to their bairns. They were both aware that the future wasn’t going to be easy. Europe was beginning to beat the drums of war and Germany’s massive rearmament programme could only mean one thing. War was inevitable and that would mean everything became uncertain, but one thing was for sure. She and Edward would deal together with whatever came.

The sky was a heavy blue-grey and the pleasing nip in the air at the beginning of the month had already given way to several hard white frosts in the last week, the alchemy of the season turning the decaying autumn landscape into a glorious abundance of colours. As they reached the little park situated not far from the house, Edward took the children off to play on the swings and roundabout while Ruby sat down on a bench to watch them.

The baby in her womb kicked, a strong, vigorous kick as though to demand that her attention wasn’t all on the rest of the family, and as she placed her hand under her coat and felt more movement she experienced a sense of deep contentment. Whatever challenges the future might bring, she was ready to face them. The road had been a long and winding one at times, but she had come to a place where she was sure of who she was and where she belonged. It was the most precious of gifts.

One Snowy Night

Rita Bradshaw was born in Northamptonshire, where she still lives today. At the age of sixteen she met her husband – whom she considers her soulmate – and they have two daughters, a son and six grandchildren. Much to her delight, Rita’s first novel was accepted for publication and she has gone on to write many more successful novels since then, including the number one bestseller Dancing in the Moonlight.

As a committed Christian and passionate animal-lover her life is full, but she loves walking her dog, reading, eating out and visiting the cinema and theatre, as well as being involved in her church and animal welfare.

By Rita Bradshaw

BY RITA BRADSHAW

Alone Beneath the Heaven

Reach for Tomorrow

Ragamuffin Angel

The Stony Path

The Urchin’s Song

Candles in the Storm

The Most Precious Thing

Always I’ll Remember

The Rainbow Years

Skylarks at Sunset

Above the Harvest Moon

Eve and Her Sisters

Gilding the Lily