But that January, just like the ones before, there was a promotion on the table, and once again it wasn’t the time to start a family. Inevitably they would leave it there, Tommy full of promises to pick up the conversation again towards Christmas. But the next year there would be another reason, another job that had opened up, another box he had to tick as he rocketed towards the top. Not the best time. Maybe next year.

She appreciated that she didn’t understand how hard his work was, not really. After all, she had all the time in the world; all the hours in the day were hers to do with as she wanted. As long as there was a nice dinner on the table for him when he got home.

Paula drummed her fingers on the windowpane. Could this year be different? After all, Tommy had gone as far as he could go, having landed the top job of director of accounting in the summer.

She felt a thrill run through her and she shivered at the fresh realisation. There were no more reasons to delay. No more excuses.

She inhaled deeply, the scent of change in the air, and suddenly she couldn’t wait for Tommy to get home.

She abandoned the pile of washing, skipping past it and into their master suite. Peering in the mirror, she pulled her hands through her shoulder-length brown hair, teasing it up and pinning it. Quickly, she moved over to her wardrobe and flicked through the hangers.

She would make an effort tonight. After ten years of marriage, it was important to keep things good for her husband, who worked all the hours. She would nip down to the butcher’s on the high street and buy a couple of nice steaks for dinner.

Candles and wine; she made a mental note as she pulled out a woollen dress the same shade as the leaves outside. Music and a great dinner, and maybe an early night.

Paula smiled, bathed in hope. Could this be it?

‘I was only going down to the high street, the local butcher would have been okay,’ said Paula as she jostled her shopping into the booth and sat down opposite her best friend, Julie.

Julie appraised Paula’s Waitrose bags. ‘It wouldn’t have been organic, though, would it? And if you’re going to start a family, you want only the best. Start as you mean to go on.’

Paula shushed her, glancing around furtively. ‘Nobody knows!’ She giggled. ‘Even Tommy doesn’t know yet.’

Julie raised her eyes. ‘I don’t know why you’ve waited so long. I mean, why don’t you just go ahead and get pregnant anyway? You’re married, for Christ’s sake!’