No one has asked me this before. I could tell her how hard it’s been, that saving his life still affects mine to this day. But that doesn’t have to be her story. It’s better if she focuses on the positives.

‘I’m fine. I’m just grateful I could help.’

On the drive home, we talk about the Coasters and Joel tells me he has plans. He’s doing an online nutrition and personal training course. ‘Only a basic one but I really enjoy it. And this is me, the kid who paid zero attention at school. I might apply for a full-time diploma, even a degree afterwards.’

‘About time you got your shit together.’

‘Did you like them? The guys?’

I’m touched that my opinion matters to him. ‘Very much. And you’re already helping people. That guy, Luke: it’s early days for him but his wife says he’s so encouraged by seeing how fit you are. Hey, you could even start playing football again.’

He focuses on the road. ‘No. I’ll never play again.’

‘What, not even a kickabout when you have a family?’

Another silence. ‘I’m never having kids. In case my faulty heart –’ he taps his chest – ‘is something I end up passing on.’

The rain has eased but the wind is stronger than before. A bloated balloon Santa rides up from the pavement on a gust, billowing out and across the road towards us, bouncing off the windscreen and towards the sea.

We’re getting closer to home and I wish the journey was longer. ‘Drop me on the main road, please.’ Tim still has no idea I’m in touch with Joel, never mind meeting him tonight.

He nods. ‘So, what shifts are you working over Christmas?’

‘Christmas Eve to Boxing Day. Overnight shifts.’

‘Wow, you must really have pissed off your bosses.’

‘I volunteered. So many of my colleagues have kids and it’s more important for them.’ Plus, it means I have an excuse not to endure a full Smith Family Christmas, complete with extended cooing over Baby Ava and my sister’s relentless interrogation about the postponed wedding. ‘How about you?’

‘Mum’s ordered the slaughter of several poor organic farm animals to celebrate the return of the prodigal son from the edge of drug oblivion!’

‘Way too harsh. They’ve been through hell with you, Joel.’

‘You’re right. Remember that joke we had. How are the jerks? I’m the jerk, right?’

‘I didn’t see a jerk tonight, I saw . . .’ My first love. ‘I saw someone who is trying.’

He turns up Hazelmere Crescent and pulls in, just out of sight of the bungalow. ‘Look, Kerry. There’s something else. The full-time sports science courses I’m considering for next year, they’re a long way from Brighton. I thought . . . after what we talked about after the triathlon, well, I could do with a fresh start.’

No!