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!

“Let’s leave it at that. That way we can work together without any awkwardness.” But his short laugh was the most awkward sound in the world. “We’ll get this show on the road, right?” He dropped his feet to the floor, stood, and strode away, catching up his coat as he went.


He didn’t look back, but he lifted a hand once, as if to touch his mouth. And then he was gone, the door creaking shut behind him.


When had I got things so confused? So wrong?


Chapter 10