Of course, the barmaid chose that moment to bring their food over, realizing too late what she’d walked into.

‘The, uh, cottage pie?’

‘That was me, my darling. Thanks. Thank you so much.’ He felt he had to be extra smooth to make up for it all.

‘And the cheeseburger. Well done. No mayo. With chips.’

Clio grunted. The girl looked at the floor.

‘OK, can I get you anything else now?’

‘No, we’re fine thanks, angel. Thank you.’ He slapped on a smile till she’d edged out of sight, then leaned over his plate and held his wife’s hand.

‘Listen, babe, I know you’re scared. I know you are. I’m scared too. I know it’s not going to be a walk in the park. But you’re going to be an amazing mum, and we’ll get through all the tough times. We’re a team, hey? It’s you and me.’

Her hand wriggled out from his, grabbed at the air again.

‘You are not hearing a thing I’m saying, are you? It’s not – God, Danny. Just, just shut up for a few minutes, would you?’

She pushed the plate with the burger across the table, away from her.