I disconnected the call and breathed in deeply. Thank God someone was on my side. No, that wasn’t fair. They were all on my side, which was why they were so negative about Scott. I was a big girl, though, and if Scott was a mistake, then he was a mistake I wanted and needed to make.

The moment I stepped inside La Vecchia Scuola that evening, it was like stepping back in time to that first night with Scott. I looked over towards the cosy table for two where we’d fallen in love by candlelight and my stomach fizzed. I could still remember everything about that unexpected evening. I’d known back then that meeting Scott would change my life. I just hadn’t expected it to play out like this.

I was a little early and he hadn’t arrived but the waiter said it wasn’t a problem and directed me to the same cosy table for two. Was it coincidence or had Scott specifically requested it?

The restaurant was busy with only a couple of empty tables and there was that definite ‘the weekend has arrived’ buzz in the laughter and chatter. I ordered a glass of wine and scrolled through my phone while I waited.

Across the morning, Scott had posted a series of photos on his Facebook feed for my eyes only: a sad face as he waited at the station because he was missing me, the one of him blowing me a kiss, and a work pamphlet with ‘I love Jemma’ in a heart written in marker pen.

My favourite was the final image that he’d posted late this morning. He was standing on Brighton beach. Behind him was the sea and the silhouette of the burned-down pier. He was beaming at the camera. The caption read: Quick tea break before it gets too busy. Can’t wait to see you tonight. You’ve made me the happiest man alive. The pier behind me might be in ruins and I’m praying our future together isn’t. I promise you won’t regret it if you give me another chance. I’ll never lie again and I’ll never, ever let you down. Counting down the hours xxx