He was hiding something, George could tell, and it didn’t take a genius to work out what. ‘You and Sarah … are you seeing her now, you know, like a couple?’

Roger slowly nodded his head. ‘I hate to tell you, mate, but yes. Look, I’m sorry and all that. I know you like her, but you wasn’t getting anywhere with her, and after the attack we got closer. She thinks the world of you as a friend, but, well, she’s my bird now. You understand, don’t you?’

George felt like he’d been stabbed again, only this time in the back. Roger was his best friend. They’d known each other since they’d been at school together. He wouldn’t have treated Roger this way. Where was the man’s loyalty? He felt disgusted, but his pride kicked in and there was no way he was going to let Roger see how hurt he felt. ‘Sure, I can understand why you’d want to be with her. I get it and hope it works out for you,’ George said, adding as he walked away, ‘Just make sure don’t hurt her, and that’s a warning.’

What had started as such a good day had suddenly turned into one of the worst. George knew he’d lost Sarah for good now. With his hopes dashed, he ripped at the bunting, venting his frustration at being let down by his friend and losing the love of his life.

Mo had the hump, and it peeved her even more that Samuel didn’t seem to care that she was annoyed with him. ‘It’s not often we get to have a weekday together, and all you want to do is sit there and paint your stupid pictures,’ she complained.

Samuel looked up from his artwork, but continued painting. ‘It’s no good pouting like a sulky little girl, Mo. You know I’ve been wanting to get this done for a while now. This will add a bit of colour to this place, and surely you want it to look nice.’

‘Yes, I do, but can’t you leave it for today? The sun’s out, and it’s not like you normally get time off work.’

‘I know, Mo, but with the hours I work I don’t get a lot of chance to paint. I can’t stand looking at these dull walls. It’s not been the same since your brothers smashed up my paintings. I like it looking bright and colourful in here, it reminds me of home.’

‘I don’t know why you’re bothering. You keep saying we’ll be in our own place soon, so does it really matter what this room looks like?’