Charmian is James’s aunt and has been responsible for his upbringing since the death of his parents. She’s a strong, independent woman and she believes wholeheartedly in treating children as adults.
‘James’s Aunt Charmian was waiting for him on the platform. He held out his hand for her to shake, but she brushed it aside and gave him a big hug.
‘You’re so formal, James. Sometimes a lady wants more than just a handshake.’ Aunt Charmian was wearing olive-coloured trousers tucked into high riding boots and a matching jacket with a simple white silk shirt and scarf. You didn’t often see a woman in trousers, but Charmian carried herself so confidently that nobody would have dared to criticize her.’