I take the phone from her. A series of screenshots show the original message – which is so cruel it makes me gasp, causing tears to well in my eyes once again – as well as the replies from various people. Every single one is condemning Danielle’s message, and expressing full support for me. I read one response after the next, saying how I’m one of the most talented project managers they’ve come across; how, if that’s what I’ve been up against, I deserve to be where I am more than anyone else; and how I’m a total inspiration. I become so completely overwhelmed by this that the sobs come once more, this time so thick and fast that a passing nurse stops to check I’m all right.

Emmanuel sits with me quietly, allowing me to work through the jumble of emotions I’m feeling, until I’m calm enough to have a coherent conversation again.

‘Sorry.’ I’m embarrassed as I remember that this is my boss I’m with.

‘You have nothing to be sorry for, Alex.’ She stays and chats about lighter things for a while longer until it eventually dawns on me that she won’t have had anything to eat.

‘Emmanuel, it’s nearly seven p.m. You’ll need to get your dinner. Why don’t you head off and I’ll call you tomorrow once I’ve seen the consultant?’

‘All right. I am needing to see to a few things. I’m glad you’re feeling a bit calmer.’ She gets up from her chair. ‘I’ll come by tomorrow after work again.’

‘You don’t have to do that.’ I feel tremendously guilty that Emmanuel is having to fill the gap that would otherwise be filled by family or close friends.

‘Enough. I want to come and see you. And I could get some more things from your apartment – that is, if you’re happy for me to do that? We didn’t manage to pack much yesterday.’

‘Only if it’s not too much trouble.’

‘It’s not at all. I can nip there straight after work before coming here. It’s not much of a diversion.’

‘OK, sure. I’d really appreciate having my iPad. Maybe some more comfortable clothes. Also, my toiletries bag in the bathroom is the one I use when I swim. It’s got everything I need in it.’

‘Not a problem. I’ll see you tomorrow then. Chin up. This will pass.’ She gives my hand a squeeze, before heading out of the ward.

Once she’s gone, it’s not long before unhelpful thoughts start to plague me. Danielle has really messed things up. Though I seem to have everyone’s support, they’re all going to see me differently now, probably even treat me differently. While this huge worry is taking up space in my mind, a big bubble of sadness is also competing for space. My career has been compromised, but Matt’s gone from my life for good. Memories of our time together flood my mind: our first date; the walk in the woods; all the other amazing meals out and nights in since. The way he kissed me, his touch, those eyes. Now, all gone as if it never happened. It’s all too much to bear. I pick up my phone and dial Sasha.