For the first time this year, Games Night is actually held in the evening. Although as it starts getting dark from three thirty, it feels a bit like we are in a perpetual night. The overhanging trees are looking particularly evil this evening.

I near Rahul’s flat – he’s always a favoured host because of his food. However, I’ve chosen to risk missing out on the most popular food options by purposefully running late. The more people there before me, the more diluted Peter will be.

I approach the door and ring the doorbell. I can hear lots of people inside, and someone shuffling to open it.

‘Bea!’ Mark smiles at me from the other side, and welcomes me in with a hug.

It looks like everyone who has ever attended a Games Night has shown up this evening. The hallway is packed. There are far too many people to play games, but it doesn’t look like anyone minds.

It’s also really warm, a stark contrast to the outside. I start to panic and my neck gets really itchy. There is barely enough room to take off my coat.

Luckily, Mia comes to help. The lack of space and multiple layers mean I’ve got a little twisted. She looks really pregnant now.

‘I know, I’m huge.’

‘You’re not huge, but it’s now very obvious that you’re pregnant.’ I hope this is the right thing to say.

‘Ugh, and I’m so warm all the time. I’m so grateful I got accidentally pregnant when I did. I couldn’t imagine being this warm in summer.’ She hangs up my coat. ‘It’s cooler over here, follow me.’

It takes us a while to reach our destination next to the big windows in the lounge, mainly because there are so many people here. People I haven’t seen since the last Christmas Games Night. I don’t have a huge amount to say to them, so I’m happy to have a reason (Mia’s body temperature) to move on, but it’s nice to see them anyway.

We reach the window. Mia perches on the sofa arm and I stand opposite. I look around. No Peter in sight. I’m relieved.

I definitely feel relief. I definitely do not feel sad.

I turn my attention to Mia. It’s been some time since I’ve seen her.

‘So, have you decided how long you’re going to take off for mat leave?’

‘The whole year.’

‘Good!’ She had been thinking of only taking three months.

‘Although Mark wants me to give him a couple of months as shared leave.’ She shakes her head. ‘We haven’t decided anything quite yet though. If I’m pushing this thing out, I want to reap all the benefits I can.’

‘So, what made you change your mind?’

‘Well, I’ve been doing some research –’ obviously – ‘and a lot of studies say that going back after twelve weeks is actually quite unhealthy for the baby and the mother.’ She leans forward. ‘Also, I like the idea of having time to just be a mum. And watching daytime TV.’