It turns out my colleagues are a lively bunch and quite different to how they are in the office. Either that or they’ve been on their best behaviour with me, and now they’re letting their true personalities filter through. Dhruv is very much the leader in this social context, using his humour to bring everyone together. Emmanuel is a solid figure within the group whom everyone clearly respects (even Danielle to a certain extent). She joins in the banter, giving the team space to enjoy themselves and forget they’re in the presence of their manager. Felix and Aadesh are less dominant characters, but they still get involved in the jokes and the laughter. It’s a really pleasant social dynamic and I find myself grinning like a new moon, happy to have found such positivity in my new life already.

‘I’ll get the next round in,’ Emmanuel announces. ‘Same again?’

We nod or confirm verbally as she gets up from her seat, her braided hair swishing around her shoulders, having been released from her ‘work bun’ as soon as we left the office.

‘Alex, are you going to have a proper drink this time?’ Dhruv teases me in a friendly manner. ‘We need to get you drunk so you don’t remember what we get up to this evening.’

‘I’d remember it regardless.’ I flash him a mischievous smirk. ‘Alcohol doesn’t affect my memory. I’ve got loads of drunken escapade collateral saved up over the years, ready to be wheeled out at any time – big birthdays, weddings, leaving speeches…’

He considers this with a glint of humour in his eyes. ‘Looks like you’re one to watch out for.’

‘Don’t worry. I only do it to people I don’t like.’

‘So, if you ever “red-neck” me publicly, I’ll know it’s because you secretly want to off me.’

‘Not at all. If I want to off you, no one will find you. You know I’m from Glasgow, right?’ I give him a cheeky wink as his face turns to one of white shock, then amusement.

‘You’re good.’ He hoots. ‘I know you’re just joking, but now I’m wondering if that’s a double bluff. I’ll be careful not to get on the wrong side of you.’

I start to laugh myself, then glance across at Danielle, who looks less than happy that I’m engaging in such easy banter with Dhruv.

‘I’ll go and help Emmanuel with the drinks.’ I climb out of my seat and head for the bar.

As I walk inside, I’m engulfed by upbeat music, loud voices and the sweaty humidity from a bar packed with people who’ve been stuck in the office all day. I carefully pick my way across to where Emmanuel is patiently waiting to be served. It’s so busy, the queue is three people deep and she’s still at the back. I touch her on the arm and she turns and gives me a little wave.

‘I thought I’d come and give you a hand.’ I have to raise my voice to be heard over the noise.