I didn’t even try to sneak out on Christmas Eve, just headed straight into the living room. The coven was lined up on the sofa, all three of them with expectant looks on their faces, as if they’d known I was on my way.
Then again, they’re witches. They’d probably known before I had.
“Come on, Mum,” I challenged her. “I’m ready for you. Do your worst.”
“It’s all for your own good, young man, so don’t you forget it. Happy Christmas, love, and here’s hoping it’ll be keeping you warm long after I’m gone.” She heaved a sigh.
“Are you off to the bingo, then, Mum?” I asked innocently.
“I’ll be off to your Aunty Gerry’s church in a minute, to pray for some respect from the fruit of my womb. Now open it, love.”
Mum’s present was all done up in recycled paper, tied with string. I opened it up
