Last Christmas, Francis had a promising acting career and a budding romance with Duncan. This Christmas, it seems he's lost it all. When his mum persuades him to help her with the annual village production, he's drawn back into the wacky world of amateur pantomime. This year's production has all kind of new twists, the village players are eccentric although enthusiastic, and Francis isn't sure he ever saw himself as a director. And what his mother also didn't tell him was, he'd be working with Duncan by his side. But if he can cope with charity shop costumes, squabbling characters, cross-dressing, and all the corny jokes, can he also believe in the show's magical triumph of Good over Bad, and win a second chance with Duncan? After all, in pantomime, everyone gets their wish granted in the end.

He's Behind You!

“I don’t care how I look,” Duncan said quietly, the lilting chuckle lifting his words. He was back in his casual shirt and jeans, though there was glitter on his cheek and plenty in his hair. “But it feels really good. The costume’s like a walking meringue dessert, but Amy and Elena are working on letting it out to fit my shoulders.”


I laughed again. “You looked magnificent, even with that off-the-shoulder Bardot style. I suppose I just never imagined you in the pantomime, let alone what character you’d be.”


“So you don’t mind?” He was slightly hesitant.


“Why would I? It’s nothing to do with me.”


There was a lull in the conversation, a stillness in the quiet, airy hall around us. But it was comforting rather than awkward. I’d promised the vicar we’d sweep up before we left, but I was in no rush. When Duncan reached down to the box at his feet for another beer, his thigh pressed against mine.


Chapter 9