‘Dangerous? Jesus, Dad, listen to yourself. Mum got murdered jogging! There are people down there who are making a real difference. They’re calling for penal change and social justice. They’re demanding rehabilitation of gang members and giving young people a reason to live rather than die.’

‘Oh Millie, it’s your age. You’re altruistic and naïve—’

‘Don’t you dare!’ She stood up and looked at him angrily. He didn’t know what to say; he’d never seen his daughter like this. ‘Your generation is responsible for what is happening now; you’re the naïve ones. You can’t shove people into housing estates while you sit in your ivory tower and expect them to behave. You have to look after society as a whole for everyone to feel included.’

‘Oh Millie, don’t give me that socialist crap. You’re too young to understand—’

‘God, Dad, I’m ashamed of you. I had no idea you were such a diehard Victorian. I’m sorry that poor people annoy you, because you know that knife crime stats and penal failure stats are mirror images of economic status, right? You really think it’s their fault and not circumstances? Shame on you. I don’t care for your politics. I’m going to bed.’

‘Darling, I’m sorry! There are a thousand and one sides to this and many of them you’ll only learn when you become a parent.’

‘Good night, Dad. We can talk about it when I’m old enough.’ She strode out of the room and he stared at the door.

He heard more doors bang and wished Ella was here. It was the type of conversation he dreaded. He suddenly realised that for the rest of their lives, Jordan and Millie would only have him. Ella wasn’t there to be their mentor and guide any more. He was terrified, and he’d already screwed up.

He’d also thrown away a chance to watch TV with his daughter, albeit under unfavourable conditions. Ella had hated the kids spending so much time in their rooms, isolated and on social media, giving in to God knows what influences, and he’d let her down. He felt wretched. Maybe he’d give Millie an hour or so to calm down and then go and apologise. He turned his attention back to the TV.