AURELIA MARLOWE

Morning brought an unpleasant throb to my knee and enough puffiness around my eyes that I was grateful I did not have to look at myself.

Aura was curled somewhere near my feet, while Bubbles had wedged himself firmly against my side, making it difficult to move without disturbing him. I stayed beneath the covers for a few minutes, listening to the quiet of the room, until a knock came at the door and Maisie called, "Mrs Blackwell?"

"Come in."

The door opened, followed by the soft clink of china as she carried something towards the table. "I brought breakfast."

"You may be my favourite person in this...