I’d turned into our street now and without realizing it I was walking close to the buildings, staying in the shadows, pressing myself into doorways just in case Harvey hadn’t gone to work for some reason. Which was ridiculous because Harvey had never had a day off sick since I’d known him.

‘Thanks, love. The thing is, I need to clear your room to put everything in storage. Is there anything you particularly want sending on, or can I box it all up?’

My heart leapt; if I’d needed another sign to convince me that leaving London today was the right thing to do, this would have been it.

‘Tell you what, Dad, I’ll do it myself.’

‘What? There’s no need to do that. Besides, I don’t have time to hang about. Adam and Nicky want to move in on Monday.’

‘Then I’ll come tonight. No arguments, I want to. I’ll text you when I know what time the train gets in.’

‘Excellent! Well, if you’re sure?’

‘I’m sure,’ I said, growing more confident by the second. ‘See you later.’

A flicker of excitement warmed my insides as I turned my key in the door and found the flat empty just as it should be. It was really happening.

It only took me ten minutes to pull my two suitcases from under the bed and stuff my belongings into them. It took me twice as long to compose a kind but firm letter to Harvey.