‘Risky, but nothing. He isn’t Gavin, and there’s no reason why he should act anything like he does.’

‘I know, but how am I supposed to trust him? Or anyone? Either not to cheat on me or give up on me?’

I never meant to shatter a young girl’s illusion of love. The idea that she will walk away, just because of the fear of it not working out is so sad. This is why parents don’t let their kids watch horror movies. Unnecessary fear of a world that is probably quite safe. It’s a shame Risky witnessed such disastrous examples of marriage.

‘Risky, listen to me,’ I say, putting two hands on her leg and looking her right in the eye. ‘There are happy and successful relationships all around us. They’re easy to find, and they’re everything you imagine. All you have seen in the past few weeks is that when they don’t work, you never, ever have to be trapped in it. Nothing bad has to be forever. OK?’

‘Yes, but how would I get through it? I’m not sure I could cope.’

‘You are the strongest woman I know. And you know what you do if it doesn’t work out? You surround yourself with other women, because together we can get through anything.’

‘We can, can’t we?’ she says, feeling that sistership between me and her. My unlikely friend, who has inspired me in ways I could never imagine.

‘Text Adam back. Make a plan to meet up and just roll with it, OK? Don’t be scared, give it what you’ve got, and just enjoy it. Even if a relationship ends, you can’t regret that it started in the first place.’

‘Do you regret marrying Michael?’ she says, looking at me like I have the key to happiness in my hand.

‘No,’ I lie.

‘I know you don’t have the marriage I thought you had, but you’re still such an inspiration to me, Beth. The business, and Tommy. Making that work, being present for both. It’s incredible. And you’re a real women’s woman. I don’t know what I’d do without your support.’

‘Thanks Risky, I feel the absolute same about you.’

Picking her phone back up, she does as I suggest. ‘Maybe it will work out,’ she says, as she texts Adam back.

‘Maybe it will.’

I will always, no matter what, continue to sell the concept of love.

WhatsApp chat

Group name – Scooby-Doo

Lauren: Ladies, I did it. I sent the picture to Gavin. I said if he continued to defame me I would post it on my Instagram feed. He called me right away, the first time we’ve spoken since the wedding. He begged for me back. Said he was sorry. Can you believe it?

Risky: OMG, what did you say?