I am a big old sucker for Christmas stories.
…like this one.
The landlord shook his head, apparently deaf to Ivo’s meaning.
“Can my horse and I find a place there, do you think? I will pay.”
“Sleep in my stable, sir?” The man seemed dumbfounded. He cast a look back over his shoulder and up the stair. Doubtless wondering how his missus would take the proposal. Then he shrugged. “If you like, sir.”
– from Bedlam Inn, Copyright © 1994 by Madeleine E. Robins.
First published in Christmas Magic, edited by David G. Hartwell, Tor Books, 1994.
This is one of those “if only” stories that I really wish were true. Enjoy.