The days after Dad’s heart surgery pass in a blur. The operation was a success and he was back home the following day. It felt so sudden that one minute I was fearing the worst and the next he’s at home in his PJs watching daytime TV. I offered to stay whilst he recuperated, but Julie beat me to it and surprisingly it didn’t bother me one bit. Since our chat at the hospital, I feel as though we’ve had a breakthrough with how I’ve felt; it’s honestly a relief and comfort to know she’s there to look after him all the time. I’ve got to make the time to get to know her properly; I owe it to Dad and to her. And now, instead of dreading it, I’m starting to look forward to it.

With Dad resting at home, work has been hectic. Whilst we often joke that he doesn’t do any actual work, this week has proved otherwise. Everyone’s missing him and we know the sombre mood won’t lift until he’s sat back at his desk. But the doctor advised against it at least until a few weeks’ time, given the severity of his surgery.

I’m not sure when he’ll be back but with everything that’s happened, I can’t leave the company now. Not when they need me. Maybe it’s a sign that becoming a teacher wasn’t meant to be. Typical, just as I plucked up the courage to tell Dad, this happens. But just because I accept that my plans have had to change, doesn’t mean to say that I don’t feel absolutely gutted.

I’ve been trying my best to pretend that everything’s OK, but I’m failing miserably. I’ve been in a terrible mood and found myself snapping at the staff about the silliest of things, something I’ve very rarely done before, and it’s not fair to take out my frustration on those around me. So, I’ve thrown myself into an unhealthy amount of work.

‘Are you getting any sleep?’ Layla deposits a cup of coffee on my desk along with a sandwich. She and Claire seem to have taken it in turns to make sure that I’m eating. ‘You look exhausted.’

‘I’m OK, it’s just lots of things need to get done. A ship misses its captain.’

Claire comes over and sits on the edge of my desk.

‘We know these next few weeks are going to be difficult for you,’ she says, ‘and we’re all prepared to do more. Aaron and I have worked here for so long, we practically know the company inside out and can cover for you and your dad.’

‘And I can put in extra hours,’ chips in Layla. ‘Believe me, it’s less work being here than it is at home.’