‘So after I’ve completely ruined the mood, would you like your other gift?’ Sam asked.

I smiled. ‘You didn’t ruin anything. You voiced one of my fears that I could never compare to what you had with Nikki.’

‘You don’t need to compare to her. There are things about you that remind me of her, and there are things about you that are nothing like her but it’s the whole package that I fell for – not the reminders. It’s you I love, Jemma. You.’

‘You really are a superhero.’

‘Which is the perfect link to this.’ He retrieved the gift from under the Christmas tree and handed it to me. ‘Happy Christmas, Jemma. This is the keeper of the scroll.’

The box was quite heavy and wrapped in superhero paper, which made me laugh. I swiftly removed the wrapping to reveal a gift box. When I lifted the lid, I grinned. It was a Ju-Sea Bear, dressed in a skirt, cape and breastplate, holding a hammer in one hand. I lifted him out and gazed at his face. ‘My very own superhero bear. He’s absolutely gorgeous. When did you and Mum conspire about this?’

Sam laughed. ‘I couldn’t possibly breach patient confidentiality.’

‘I love him. I’m sure he’ll take great care of the scroll.’ I looked up at Sam. ‘Are you sure you’re okay to give me some time to adjust?’

He lifted up one of my hands and kissed it gently. ‘We can take it as slowly as you like. There’s no pressure for anything. I know you’re still hurting about Scott and I did kind of turn up without warning. After what you said on the day we said goodbye, I knew it was no good promising I’d leave London. Actions speak louder than words so here I am back home in my old job and feeling excited about new beginnings.’

‘It’s the most romantic thing anyone’s ever done for me. I can’t believe you gave up your promotion and have returned to your old job so you could be with me.’

‘A wise woman once suggested that a choice between a great CV or being surrounded by friends and family was a no brainer. She was right. That day I saw your mum, when I turned up in a suit, I’d been to York Hospital to explore opportunities there. I’d have done the commute for you but they had nothing so I got Jack to put feelers out in Whitsborough Bay. I was lucky that there were so many complaints against Dr Steadman and they were keen to replace him but I’d have moved back here for you, even if I hadn’t been able to secure my old job back.’

‘Really? What would you have done?’