Crossing her legs, Joyce urged her family to guess the first syllable.

‘You look like you’re busting for a piss, the way you’re standing, Joycie,’ Eddie said, taking the mickey.

Joyce turned to Stanley.

‘Knees? Legs?’ he asked.

Unable to control her annoyance, Joyce let rip at him. ‘Didn’t you notice me crossing me legs? It’s Crossroads, you silly old bastard,’ she said, flopping down in the armchair.

Eddie stood up to take his turn.

‘Film, two words. The something,’ Jessica said.

‘The Godfather,’ Frankie shouted correctly.

‘Clever girl,’ Stanley said, impressed.

Frankie smiled. ‘That was easy, it’s Dad’s favourite film.’

‘Sounds about right,’ Stanley mumbled, as he nodded politely.

Already bored with Christmas, Joey stood up. ‘I’m really tired. I’m gonna go to bed, if that’s OK.’

Frankie nodded. ‘Me too,’ she said, finishing her drink.

‘Do you want waking up early to open your presents?’ Jessica asked them.

‘Leave it out, Mum. We asked for just money; we’re fifteen, not five,’ Frankie replied, laughing.

Seeing Eddie yawn, Jessica smiled. ‘Shall we finish this game tomorrow and go to bed now?’ she said.

Eddie nodded. ‘Are yous two staying up for a bit?’ he asked his in-laws.

Joyce stood up. ‘No, we’ve had enough as well. Come on, Stanley, leave that drink, you’ve had enough. Come on, chop-chop.’

Having little alternative, Stanley left the glass of Scotch and followed his wife up the stairs.

Jessica felt glum as she pulled the quilt over herself. She had been in a funny mood all night, and was struggling to snap out of it. Eddie got undressed and snuggled up next to her. Planting kisses on the back of her neck, he asked her what was wrong.

‘I’m fine, honest I am,’ Jessica insisted.

‘No, you’re not. We’ve been married for a long time, Jess, and I know when something’s wrong.’

Jessica turned to face him. ‘You’re gonna think I’m ever so silly if I tell you.’

Eddie leaned over her and moved her fringe out of her eyes. ‘Tell me, I promise I won’t think you’re silly.’

Jessica struggled for the right words. ‘It’s just that now the kids are older, it doesn’t really feel like Christmas any more. I’ve noticed it this year more than any other. They’ll soon be leaving school and it’s as though they don’t need me, Ed. I feel like I’ve been made redundant all of a sudden.’

Eddie saw a tear roll down her cheek and held her close. ‘Ssh, don’t cry, Jess,’ he whispered.