‘Yes, every day. I want this to be the best one I’ve – I mean we’ve – ever done. I’ve worked hard on that script. I even did an online scriptwriting class in the summer, so I’d know exactly what I’m doing. I’ve learned all about pacing and the three-act structure and the hero’s journey.’ Bella bit her lip for the second time that day. It all seemed a bit excessive for a fake pantomime where half the children would be off with colds and the rest would either forget their lines or be too busy fiddling with their costumes to remember when to recite them. Last year, one of the teachers had actually had to step up on stage when one of the angels kept knocking the donkey’s ears off. ‘This year, I don’t want you two and your lackadaisical attitude ruining it.’ She pointed between Johnny and Nina.

‘They won’t, Mrs Brody,’ Bella said, protecting them. ‘I’ll make sure of it.’

Johnny and Nina’s attitudes weren’t at all lackadaisical. They were just a bit more laid-back than highly strung Mrs Brody. Bella thought them two of the best teachers she’d ever known.

‘Good,’ Mrs Brody said. ‘It’s going to be fun, fun, fun for everyone.’ She clapped her hands together, beaming.

After pointing once more between Johnny and Nina, Mrs Brody walked off. For a moment, no one spoke in the intimidating silence left in her wake until Johnny blew the air out through his mouth, puffing his cheeks.

‘She is actually the most terrifying woman I’ve ever met. But here’s a question. If you were in a pantomime, which end of the pantomime horse would you be?’

‘The front of course,’ Nina replied.

‘Bella?’

‘Yeah, me too. For obvious reasons. And because being the other end would put my back out.’

Before they fell into discussing the ins and outs (or fronts and backs) of the pantomime horse, Freddie came up to them and Bella felt her eyebrows pull together.

‘Miss Radcliffe?’

‘Yes, Freddie.’

‘Can I go and set the books out, please?’

‘Too cold?’ asked Johnny. ‘You just need to run around a bit. Want to play some football with me?’

‘No, thank you. I don’t feel well.’

Bella stepped forwards and put a hand on Freddie’s shoulder. His face was so full of sadness her heart almost lurched out of her chest. ‘Who were you playing with just now, Freddie? Don’t you want to carry on? There isn’t long till playtime’s over.’

He shook his head. ‘I was playing with Amias and Richard, miss.’

‘And was everything okay?’ asked Nina.

He paused for a moment. ‘Yes, miss.’

‘What’s wrong, Freddie?’ Nina leaned down to speak to him.

‘My tummy feels funny, and I’ve got a headache.’