‘It was… something I need to think about less.’

‘Fair enough. So, do you have friends in Birmingham?’

‘No.’ I shake my head and pour myself a refill. ‘Don’t know anyone who lives there.’

‘Right then.’ He looks a bit bemused. ‘Must be a damn good job if you’re up for starting over by yourself. Hats off to you. Though I do remember the last time we chatted, you said you liked it there.’

We continue to laugh and chat all the way to Birmingham New Street Station. The two-and-a-half-hour journey has seemed to pass in a flash and, when the conductor’s voice comes over the intercom, announcing our imminent arrival and reminding us to take all our belongings as we alight from the train, I can’t help feeling a little disappointed that the journey is over so quickly. I’ve enjoyed my bit of escapism with gorgeous Matt.

‘Do you know where you’re going all right?’ he asks me, as we descend the steps from the train and find ourselves standing opposite each other on the busy platform.

‘Yeah, I remember a bit from when I was last here, and I’ve pretty much got the image from Google Maps stored in my head. I’ll find my way just fine.’

He nods his understanding but shows no sign of moving.

‘It was nice to see you again.’ I feel the need to fill the silence. ‘Thanks for the company.’

‘You too.’ He looks at me, almost shyly this time.

I realise that, knowing I’m single again, he now wants to ask for my number but is perhaps wondering if it’s a good idea so soon after my break-up. As much as I’m attracted to him, I’m not sure I want him to. It’s only been a matter of weeks since Dom and I went our separate ways, and I’m still a bit battered and bruised from that experience. I decide I should be the one to move away, so as not to give the wrong impression.

‘OK, see you then.’ I turn and start to walk off.

‘Wait.’ Matt steps forward and gently places his hand on my arm to stop me.

I curse myself for not shutting this down sooner and slowly turn towards him. ‘What’s up?’

‘Uh… you don’t happen to need a tour guide, do you? I could show you around. Point out the good places to eat, bars, etc.’

My stomach flutters. He looks so vulnerable, standing there waiting for my response. There’s something appealing about a man who gets nervous when asking a woman out – it shows a human side that speaks volumes over laddish bravado. There’s no doubt I’m attracted to him, but something just doesn’t feel right, which must surely be because I’ve just ended my engagement. But as he stands there, I can’t bear to let him down.

‘Sure,’ I hear myself say automatically. ‘How about you give me your number and I’ll give you a call once I’m settled?’

‘Great.’ His face immediately lights up.