We are sitting in the dining room, having just pulled the crackers I went into Harrods to choose specially. Eating a meal that I cooked for you animal eaters, even though I am vegan. Turkey with apricot and plum, and chestnut stuffing. Homemade cranberry sauce. You have a choice of red wine jus or gravy. I have also provided devils-on-horseback, bread sauce, croquette and lyonnaise potatoes. Roast potatoes. Sprouts with almonds. Carrots in orange sauce and roast parsnips. The wine, which I also chose, is perfect. A rich burgundy. Gevrey Chamberlin 1er Cru Les Champeaux 2003.

Wait until you see the cheese course, and the desserts I have made. And what about all the money I have earnt over the years to support your son and grandsons? Miles’ career is just a hobby.

And I have to start looking after the family sometime?

82

Hayley

Saffron is in such a bad mood that she went to bed straight after lunch. Maybe Caprice is right about Saffron and Miles’ relationship. Caprice has insisted that she clears the dishes whilst Miles and I play with the children. I started to help, but she waved me away and insisted that she did it alone. So I’m back in the drawing room with Miles, Ben and Harry. Ben is sitting reading the instruction booklet for his box of magic tricks, frowning as he reads, a silky handkerchief and a wand balanced on his knees. Miles and I are helping Harry build his Lego quadrocopter. It’s very tricky. We are lying on the drawing room floor, heads together, puzzling over the instructions.

I glance across at Miles’ face, deep in concentration, and my stomach rotates. We are so comfortable together. How can he be completely happy with Saffron, when they have so many bitter arguments? The truth is I haven’t got over him yet. One day, perhaps, I will finally have a chance.

83

Caprice

Boxing Day, 6 a.m. My back was aching so much all night that I couldn’t sleep. Now I’m feeling peaky in the kitchen, brewing coffee. Hoping it will pep me up. Hoping it will help me cope with the day. My morning is not helped by you walking towards me, Saffron, wearing your mini-bathrobe and Ugg slippers. I don’t think you should leave your bedroom without getting dressed. It makes you look slovenly. I guess you weren’t properly brought up and that is why you are so nonchalant with your own children.

I know it must have been hard for you, being brought up by a single parent. An irresponsible young woman who had allowed herself to get knocked up when she was still in her teens. Even though I also came from a simple background, at least I had two parents who loved each other. I had stability and that is why I am a loving homemaker, in contrast to your coldness.