‘Next up it’s the latest from one of my favourite bands of the moment,’ says the DJ in his usual upbeat, eager tone. ‘They’ve just announced a long-awaited new arena tour which will get all you fans up and close with them at last! They just keep getting better and better! It’s Blind Generation, with their new single, “Move Into Me”.’

I slow down a little as the tick-tock drum beat opens the song but instead of panicking, then switching channels as I’ve often done when I’ve heard or seen any reference to Blind Generation, I turn the radio up and put the windows down. I’m determined to shift my mind-set and Tom Farley’s wondrous voice fills the car.

It’s a clever melody with a catchy hook and by the time I pull into the stony driveway that leads to our cosy cottage, I’m singing along without any of the old anxieties, fears or regrets that I once associated with the first person who truly broke my heart.

I am a mature, successful, independent, talented woman who is proud of who I am now and of who I was then. I’m over him. I’ve forgiven myself once and for all, and to prove it, I do something I should have done a long time ago. I open my emails and, right then from the driveway of my new home, I send Tom Farley a message to acknowledge his massive success, and to give myself closure from the ghosts of my past.

Dear Tom, I write quickly.

You mightn’t even use this email address any more, but I just heard your new song on the radio and thought I should send a long overdue message of congratulations from one friend to another. I know I’m about three years late, but better late than never, I hope!

I’m so delighted for you and all you’ve become, Tom.

I only wish I’d had the courage and maturity to say it before now, but sometimes it takes the heart a bit of time to catch up with the mind.

I hope you’re enjoying every moment of your wonderful life which I’ve been following from afar as your star keeps rising. Keep pumping out those hit singles, you talented sod! You deserve every bit of success that comes your way – I’m rooting for you, and always will.

Most of all, I’m so, so proud of you Tom Farley.

With all my love,

Charlie x