As I pulled open the door to the pub and immediately clocked Jemma by the bar paying for a couple of drinks, my stomach did a somersault. She looked so relaxed and carefree as she laughed with the barman that I’d never have guessed that her life was in such turmoil. I was full of admiration for anyone who could do that. Over the years, I’d seen patients who always put on a brave face despite deteriorating health, and I’d seen others fall apart at the slightest of symptoms and become victims from that very moment.

Nikki had been like Jemma. She’d always put on a brave face to the outside world when things were tough. She’d tell me that, as long as she had me by her side, sharing her worries or simply listening to her whinge about a bad day, she could face the world with a grin and a laugh.

My stomach did another somersault as Jemma turned, locked eyes with me, and smiled widely. Uh oh! What the hell was going on? Why was I having that reaction to her? Then I checked myself. Idiot. It wasn’t about Jemma. It was because I’d made the decision to tell her about Nikki. Phew! Because the last thing I needed right now was a childish crush on a potential new friend.

Jemma handed me a pint of real ale. ‘No arguments. This is to say thank you for giving up your evening for me yet again.’

‘Thanks, but it’s no problem.’

She steered me towards the same corner table as before and dumped her bag on the floor. I slipped off my coat as she started to unbutton hers.

‘I promise no major dramas this evening,’ she said.

‘How’s Drew doing?’

She draped her coat and scarf over a spare stool then sat down. ‘He’s a bit up and down but he’s coming to terms with it. I think that Luukas giving him such a poor reason for ghosting him has helped because Drew’s starting to focus on all the negative stuff in their relationship. He’s realised that he’d put Luukas on a pedestal. He’ll get there. It takes time to get over losing someone you love, doesn’t it?’

Oh God, yes! Confession time. A little earlier in the evening than I’d hoped, but best just to throw it out there.

I was grappling with how to word it when Jemma spoke again. ‘I’m absolutely dying to chat about home, but would it be really rude if we finish talking about Mum first?’

Conversation closed. For now. I took out my notebook and pen. Hopefully I’d have another opportunity to tell her later. ‘That’s fine. It’s what I’m here for.’