‘Obviously, Aiden has worked tirelessly for the Merchant Outreach foundation, which offers financial support to families with autistic siblings. It’s never been just a job to him and he’s devoted a lot of his own time to it; weekends and annual leave when he could have been kicking back, he has been tirelessly fundraising. So, we know what a difference this little windfall will make. The two other charities who will benefit are research into childhood cancers and Alzheimer’s. The latter is in memory of Aiden’s gran, Daisy.’

As I finish speaking, everyone begins clapping and it’s wonderful to know that the general consensus is one of approval.

Aiden holds up his hands, quietening our little crowd of happy partygoers.

‘And there’s some other exciting news we’d like to share with you all.’ He turns to me and I nod, encouraging him to continue – albeit I’m struggling to look enthusiastic. ‘This win has allowed us a little self-indulgence. We were in our teens when we met and getting married fresh from university, we jumped straight into work. It’s been virtually non-stop and there hasn’t been much chance to sit back and relax. So, the other news is that we’re both taking a year off. We’re having a gap year, a chance for each of us to tick off a couple of items on that list we all tend to have in here,’ he taps his head, ‘things we’d like to do someday. Not exactly a bucket list – more a “before we have kids and get caught up in that” thing.’

There isn’t a sound in the room as he continues.

‘And we’re both excited about the experiences to come. I intend to travel and Fern, well, it’s time to take a break from being at everyone’s beck and call.’ He turns to smile at me with adoration in his eyes and something at my core wilts a little. Aiden is doing a great job of making this sound as if I’m really on board with his idea. Inside, however, I feel I’ve been backed into a corner and his enthusiasm is beginning to grate on me.

There’s a moment of hesitation before Georgia leads by raising her glass and everyone else follows suit. After a raucous chorus of general congratulations, Aiden again raises his hand to quieten everyone down. Maybe the spirits have been flowing a little too liberally tonight.

‘Right – that’s it, folks. Speeches over and the buffet awaits. Enjoy!’

As people head in the direction of the food, Aiden steers me outside into the garden. We disappear into the shadows as dusk falls around us and this evening is beginning to feel like a dream, one bordering on a nightmare if I’m being honest. Reality is setting in and it sends a cold shiver down my spine.