The Scent of Reality and other short stories
by H. M. Forester:

A number of people find themselves at a strange and unexpected meeting in the back room of an English pub with an elderly lady, Gladys Merrywether, and tell their stories about why they are there and what led them there.

The shrewd lady opens their eyes to all manner of possibilities – some of which are welcome, and some decidedly not.

Most up-to-date edition for free download (just scroll down the web page):
https://sherpoint.uk/sherpoint/review...

You can find The Scent of Reality and other short stories at Goodreads.

Many thanks. Enjoy!