‘You don’t know that. They say opposites attract, don’t they?’ Matt takes a handful of cashew nuts, tosses one up in the air and catches it in his mouth.

‘Matt!’

‘What?’

‘Leave the nuts alone.’

‘Sorry.’ He scoops up a few more and shovels them into his mouth.

‘Matt!’

‘That’s the last time, I swear.’

I suck air in through my teeth.

‘You’re a bit tense, Rachel. Want a glass of wine?’

‘Not yet – I’m trying to keep a clear head till I’ve finished cooking.’

‘You sure this was such a good idea? It’s a lot of effort for people we hardly know.’

‘That’s the point. We want to get to know them.’

‘Do we though?’

‘Yes. Why not? But anyway, it’s more to do with the kids. Jess and Charlie have made friends with their kids, so it’s good to make an effort. It’s nice to meet new people.’

The doorbell rings and I swallow down my nerves. This is going to be a perfectly enjoyable evening. I only wish I’d thought more carefully about the questions I’m going to ask. About the kind of information I want to get. About how I’m going to do this without coming across like a crazy person. ‘Can you get the door, while I check on the food?’

‘Yeah. What’s his name again?’

‘Shaun. Shaun and Kate. Don’t forget!’ I call after him. I know he’s just messing with me, but I need this to go well. We all have to bond, to become good friends so I can create another opportunity to see Bella. I’m banking on them inviting us to their place in return. That’s probably the only way I’m going to get to see Bella again.

My heart thumps as I hear Matt welcoming our guests. He sends the children upstairs to Jess and Charlie’s rooms and ushers the Morrises into the kitchen, which is exactly where I didn’t want them – as it’s where I’m cooking – but never mind. I turn away from the stove and plant a smile on my face.

Kate’s blonde hair has been artfully arranged into an elegant up-do. She’s wearing a gorgeous print wrap-dress and leather ankle boots that I’m now coveting. Shaun is wearing jeans and an expensive-looking designer shirt.

‘Hi, Rachel!’ Kate comes over to give me a hug.

‘Hello! So lovely to see you.’ We kiss on both cheeks.

‘This is my husband, Shaun. Shaun, this is Rachel.’

‘Nice to meet you.’ Shaun is medium height, medium build, with fair hair and a subtle cockney accent. His blue eyes crinkle into a friendly smile. He seems like a nice guy. I’m pretty sure he and Matt will get on well.

‘Hi, Shaun. Thanks so much for coming.’