Quiet Night

Written for https://wordofthedaychallenge.wordpress.com/category/word-of-the-day/

There were no late night’s on New Year’s eve, just an quiet discussion, and a hot mug of cocoa. That’s the way Barbara liked it. There were some great programmes on television, and she had sent all her family new year greetings at midday.

Even when she was younger, staying up late was a chore, rather than an enjoyment. A home bird. Her best friend used to say, during their long conversations. Putting the world to rights – she missed her company.

Her children were everything to her and they both understood her need for peace. Social gatherings were overwhelming. Observing other people interact, she masked her uncertainty with a smile, and too much whisky.

Feet raised, she snuggled into her warm socks brought by Max, her husband. Sharing their time with Miss Marple, never wondering who the murderer was, because they watched them so many times.

‘Cheers,’ she said, and their mugs contentedly clanked. ‘Shall we open the good biscuits?’