‘Now that’s not true. I know lots of children like playing with you, Amias, but sometimes you do tease a bit and I think for some of the children, that can be a little hurtful. What I think we need to do is start some new games, don’t you? Perhaps we could start at breaktime tomorrow. You and Freddie and some of the other children can play together. I’m sure he’d be happy to, but perhaps it would be helpful not to tease so much.’

‘I only do what my dad does.’

A faint alarm bell began to sound in her head. ‘Does he tease you a lot?’

‘Not me, my mum.’ He began crying again. ‘I don’t think they love each other anymore.’

‘Oh, sweetheart.’ She rubbed his arm. ‘Why don’t we have a chat with Mrs White tomorrow and perhaps she can speak to Mum and Dad and let them know how you’re feeling. I know they love you very much and wouldn’t want you upset like this.’

After seeing Mr Cole’s antics the other day, she could well believe that Amias’s parents didn’t love each other anymore, but for all their faults, they loved their little boy fiercely. It was why they were so protective of him. This wouldn’t be the first time Mrs White had had to speak to parents about apparent difficulties at home and how they were affecting a child, but his admission couldn’t be ignored. It was always better to tackle things head on. Not that she’d been brave enough to do that with Nick, but hers was a totally different situation.

‘Now, take a deep breath and dry your eyes.’ He did as he was told, though his shoulders shook as he did so. ‘Shall we get back to class and get you ready to go on? You’ve worked so hard, Amias, I know everyone will want to see you in the play.’

She held out her hand and Amias took it. When she led him back into class, some of the children stared, surprised to see him so quiet and he tried to hide himself away in the corner. Speaking so she was heard above the din, Bella said, ‘Amias is feeling a little nervous, everyone. Can we perhaps help him to feel a bit better?’

‘I’m nervous too,’ said Leonie in her tiger costume, going over and rubbing his arm like a grown-up would. ‘I feel a bit sick actually.’