I decide there’s no point in mulling this over too much. I’ll have my answer this afternoon. Instead, I throw myself into my work, ensuring I’m on top of everything.

By lunchtime I’m feeling quite confident that Danielle has nothing on me, but I’m annoyed that she’s managed to rattle me in a way I’ve never experienced before. I’ve never doubted myself because of someone else. Either Danielle’s a level above anyone else I’ve met, or – and I don’t even want to admit this to myself – my medical situation has knocked my confidence and self-esteem more than I’ve realised.

Irritated by this thought, I decide I need some air, so I quickly grab my things and head out of the office. Despite being late autumn, it’s an unseasonable fourteen degrees with only a light breeze. So even though I’m exhausted, I decide to take a walk by the canal to clear my head. As I wander along the canal bank, watching the Canada geese dabbling in the water, I take some deep refreshing breaths.

So what if Danielle has set me up? I can handle her. I will handle her – like the professional that I am. I need to focus on my strengths, not my weaknesses – and one of them is dealing with people like her. With this narrative running through my mind, I feel cheered and more in control.

Spotting a bench, I sit down and start to eat my quinoa salad while checking my personal emails on my phone. As I do, a flicker of a memory from Friday night flashes in my mind: my brief conversation with Matt. A smile spreads across my face.

I open up my messages app and tap out a new text message.

Hi Matt. Hope you enjoyed the rest of your weekend. Mine was too busy. Exhausted today. When are you free to be wowed on your own private tour of this fine city? Alex.

My thumb hovers over the end of the message. Should I add my signature double kisses? We are going on a date… but I hardly know the guy. I suddenly feel like I’m fifteen again. Guided by my hesitation, I decide to leave off the kisses and hit send. Then I put my phone on my lap and continue to eat my lunch.

My thighs are getting a bit chilled from the bench but it doesn’t bother me. I’m enjoying the peace that this inner city waterway provides. It’s like a little sanctuary away from the vibrancy of Brindley Place – something I wouldn’t naturally seek out, but with my energy levels not being what they were, I’ve learned to appreciate the odd bit of peace and quiet.

To my surprise, my phone lights up in my lap with a very quick response from Matt. I pick it up and read it.

Hi Alex. Good to hear from you. Spent all weekend biting my nails, wondering if you’d actually get in touch this time. Sorry, just kidding – that’s the last time, I promise. This weekend’s wide open. How about I spare you the research and take you out for a drink on Friday instead? x