‘I wouldn’t mind that she can’t cook,’ Robert grins.

Faith is clearing all the vegetables off the bench top as a smell of almost-burning pastry wafts into the front room – perfect timing.

‘Boys. Faith and I are trying to watch this in peace and your sausage rolls smell like they’re done. Grab them from the oven, Jordan, will you? Now. Before they burn.’

On the promise of food, Jordan and Robert retreat to the kitchen. Emptying the oven, they disappear to the basement in the nick of time.

‘Faith, I’m so sorry, I couldn’t get Jordan out of the room. He was watching. With Robert.’

‘I want to meet this Robert one day. You always say he’s my sort. Why have you never introduced us?’

‘Because… I don’t know, Faith. It just… hasn’t happened.’

‘What’s this about my Benny Boo?’ Faith carries on. She sounds faintly cross.

How did I get roped into this?

‘Jordan needs a cat to impress his cat food client? I don’t know. He asked me to ask you if he could cat-sit Benny. I forgot.’

‘Is it for Royal Canin?’

I tell her the campaign is for Pussy Paws.

‘Benny only eats Royal Canin, so there’s no point.’

‘Benny eats ham sandwiches from tourists,’ I object.

‘But when it comes to cat food, he’s discerning. What can I say? He’s a cat.’

‘Can I please borrow him anyway? Or could Jordan and Robert perhaps visit at yours tomorrow? You just asked why you’ve never met charming Robert…’

‘Tempting as that is, I’m out tomorrow. So I suppose, seeing as I’m your best friend, and I’d do anything for you, Benny may have to have a sleepover. Though I’m really not sure about any of this. Who borrows a cat?’

‘Robert genuinely adores cats, and I promise I’ll look after him. One night.’ I lower my voice. ‘Faith, I am sorry to have put you on the spot. You know I’m not in a great place with Jordan. I’m considering… other options. But, right now, I don’t need a blow-up with him. I can collect Benny from you tomorrow after work and return him safe and sound the next day?’

‘One night,’ Faith concedes. ‘And, Gracie, I’m holding you responsible.’

‘Thank you so much, you truly are my best friend, and I’d do anything for you, too. You know this.’

The closing credits roll on the screen.

The first episode is done. Aired. We made it.

Faith chugs what must be the last of her wine.

‘Gracie?’

‘Hmm?’

‘I think Jordan’s been a terrible boyfriend lately. He takes you for granted and doesn’t know a good thing when he sees it. Ending things may be for the best, I don’t know. Only, I don’t want you hanging your hopes on “other options”. You see, darling?’