‘Well, that’s wonderful, darling, it sounds like a big step up—’

‘And she’s decreased my hours to three days a week.’

There is a tumbleweed moment.

‘But I asked her to. Or, I agreed to it.’ They look at each other. The air in the room is very heavy. ‘It’s a good thing – it means I can spend more time developing my card business, and the job itself is much more interesting.’

I go on, rambling as I get more nervous, filling the void with words.

‘I realize this is a big decision, and it isn’t one I took lightly.’

There is still silence.

‘So, what do you guys think?’

They all look at each other, probably trying to decide who will talk first. It won’t be Anna. As vocal as she is, she’s still careful in proper family discussions. The real choice is between Mum and Fred.

Fred wins.

‘Well, I would like to see the business plan, but I think that if this is what you want to try and do, you’re very brave. I wouldn’t have the balls to do it.’

My mouth actually drops open.

‘Mum? What do you think?’

She actually smiles. ‘Honey. All I ever want is for you to be happy. And I don’t think you’ve been happy for a while. If this will make you happy, I’m happy.’

Uncomfortable with any kind of sincerity or positivity, I do what I do best. Distract. ‘Anyone for some chocolate?’

I get up, using the table for extra leverage, and squeeze past the chairs. I swear they’ve moved closer to the wall since I sat down.

‘So how is Peter? He’s such a good boy to help you with your business plan.’ Luckily my face isn’t visible to anyone.

I steel myself and turn around with the chocolates in hand, and head back to the table.

‘Uh-huh. He was very helpful.’

‘I always thought the two of you would end up together.’ My mum never usually offers an opinion on my romantic life.

‘Me too,’ Fred casually adds. He’s never offered up any relationship advice either.

‘Me three.’ Was that Anna?

What is with everyone?

‘What? When? How? Why?’

‘He has a wonderful smile.’

‘Why haven’t you two ever gone out?’

‘You would have very cute babies.’

I have no idea who said what.

‘I always thought Peter harboured a bit of a soft spot for you. The first time you brought him here, he followed you everywhere like a little puppy.’ Mum looks like butter wouldn’t melt.

‘Stop! Please.’ How did everyone see this but me?

I’m getting very warm.

‘I am not going to talk about this with you guys.’

‘Why, has something happened, sweetheart?’

‘No!’ That came out louder and more forceful than I meant it to. I’m probably very red. ‘Nothing has happened. Nothing will ever happen. Peter is a great guy. I know this because he’s my friend, and yes, he is a boy, but that doesn’t automatically mean I want to go out with him.’ Even though I do, despite trying really, really hard not to. OK. Maybe medium hard. ‘And I don’t need to go out with him, or anyone else for that matter, to be happy.’ I lose a lot of steam as I say this next sentence. ‘I’m happy that Peter and I are just friends.’