Robert made the first move. ‘Right, then.’ He rubbed his hands together. ‘How about we open some presents?’ He headed to the tree. ‘And yes, Maggie, I know it’s not teatime but today it’s my rules.’

George’s presents were thoughtful and generous. A bottle of five-year-old malt for Robert, a box of violet creams for Maggie and a pair of Fair Isle gloves for Marion.

‘Oh, George, these are just what I wanted. I was only telling Mother the other day when we were shopping—’ She stopped, seeing the conspiratorial wink between George and her mother. ‘Have you two been talking?’

‘A wee bird may have dropped a hint, aye.’ George grinned.

Marion was touched. ‘And you remembered? That’s so kind, thank you.’ She suddenly wanted to kiss him, to feel the warmth of his skin.

She looked away, and the moment passed.

Maggie, the effects of the sherry now evident, had opened her chocolates and was offering them around gleefully. ‘George, you really shouldn’t have. We don’t have anything to give you.’

He looked around at all of them, resting his eyes on Marion. ‘Your hospitality and company are the only gift I need. Since my parents have been gone … Well, let’s just say Christmas has not been my favourite time of year.’ His words, spoken in a soft voice, touched Marion. His eyes were still searching hers. ‘Until now.’

As she searched for some words of comfort, Maggie’s giggly cackle stopped her. ‘You will come again, won’t you, George? Marion is here for the whole of January, aren’t you, Marion?

‘Mother, please. I am sure George will be busy. He won’t want me foisted on him.’

George smiled broadly. ‘There is nothing I would like more. Come to think of it, I have been offered tickets for a Hogmanay dinner dance; we could see the New Year in together, if you have no other plans?’

‘Oh, she never has social plans, do you, Marion?’ Maggie squawked.

Marion blushed with anger. ‘Please, Mother.’

George got up. ‘I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have asked.’ He checked his watch. ‘I’ve overstayed my welcome. High time I should be going. Snow is forecast and my little motor might struggle a bit. Thank you all for a splendid day.’

In the hall, Maggie took his coat from the bannister and helped him in to it. ‘Such a beautiful coat.’ She stood back and admired it. ‘Robert, this is exactly the sort of coat I have always wanted you to have. It reeks of quality and will last for years.’

George laughed. ‘This old thing? It’s done me for the last ten years and will do another ten for sure.’ He took Maggie’s hand and shook it. ‘I really have had a wonderful time.’

Robert opened the front door and a wintry gust blew in a cupful of snowflakes.

Maggie gave Marion her coat from the hallstand. ‘Go and see dear George off while your dad and I clear the kitchen.’

Marion’s cheeks were burning. ‘Mother!’