When Aiden and I parted for our break, though, we agreed not to dwell on being apart for special occasions during this year. Instead, we’d make next year’s celebrations more memorable. Bigger parties, bigger gatherings. But I should have remembered our anniversary. The fact that Aiden appeared maudlin means something has lowered his spirits. Maybe because he’s never had to cope on his own with the fallout from any major upset, that’s what triggered his call. And the fact that I’m not there to fold my arms around him feels wrong, very wrong.

I sigh. I need to talk to Hannah about Nico, next. I don’t suppose she unwittingly said anything in conversation with Aiden that added to his worries? I touch the blank screen with my thumb, tempted to call him back. But what would I say? Instead, I text him.

If you need me any time – night, or day – just call. I’m always here for you. x

‘That’s good, Fern. Are you pleased with how it’s going?’

Nico appears at my shoulder, watching as I sweep the brush upwards in a gentle curve.

‘I think I am. I’m going to call it Solitude, I think.’

He continues to study the canvas, tilting the angle of his head and then leaning in to inspect the brushstrokes up close.

‘Good choice. My initial thoughts were along the lines of Separation, or Loneliness,’ he replies softly, straightening to look at me. ‘The way you’ve portrayed the light working out from the centre gives it a feeling of depth. This here represents a person?’ He indicates to the shape in the centre of the mass of colour.

‘Yes. It’s the soul. The layers are like veils, which need to be peeled away if one wants to connect with one’s true self.’

‘Hmm,’ he nods his head.

Then I begin laughing. ‘On the other hand, it could just be a very yellow smattering of paint that would brighten a wall and be a conversation piece.’

He chuckles. ‘It certainly draws the eye, and the longer you look, the more you see. Cleverly done and not easy when you’re working with such a limited range of tones. That’s impressive.’

It’s hard not to feel pleased with myself, hearing his words of endorsement. I’ve enjoyed every single brushstroke. I think the colour alone has brightened my spirits, despite the fact that it hasn’t been a particularly easy day.

‘Do you know, Fern, having you here and seeing you so engrossed in what you’re doing has been very satisfying for me. It’s been a long time since I had the pleasure of mentoring someone over a prolonged period of time. It’s a humbling experience because it reminds me of my own early years.’

I swish my brush around in the clean water pot and dab it on the rag.