Bess and Dennis came visiting mid-morning, armed with gifts. Barry offered them eggnog. “Sorry that Jimmy and Jake aren’t here. They had to nip into town.”
They’d left their Christmas shopping until the last minute, something Jake had admitted was usual for them.
“No problem,” Bess said, accepting her drink. “This is lovely,” she said after taking a sip. “Family recipe?”
Barry shook his head and explained that eggnog wasn’t common in Britain. He didn’t care much for the stuff but quite liked it in coffee.
“Oh, almost forgot. We picked up your mail from the mailbox on our way in,” Bess said, reaching into her large purse and pulling out a bunch of letters.
“Thanks. Probably just junk mail,” Barry said, quickly scanning the pile. He was relieved to see a card from his parents. When he’
