Of course, it was all there in writing – support for mothers in the workplace, later starting times, remote working and so on… but everyone knew how it worked. You got the crappy cases, your childless colleagues made your life hell, and you would never be made Partner. On numerous occasions, she’d been tempted to chuck it in altogether. What was the point in trying to do everything and enjoying nothing?

She should be celebrating her recent win but instead, she was sat here worried about the impact the last few months had had on her young son. There were too many missed bedtimes and school pick-ups. She’d missed sports day and the festive sing-along and although Chris had been able to make the sports day, her guilt that her son didn’t have any parent there for the sing-along was like an open, festering wound. Every time she thought about it, she added a little more salt.

She looked at Julia – perhaps her idea was worth considering? Yes, it would be stressful to set up their own practice but at least she would have more flexibility. And no verbal abuse from fat-faced Matthew. Turning back to her friend now, she compromised.

‘I’ll think about it. Okay?’

‘Promise?’ wheedled Julia.

‘I promise.’

‘Amazing!’ Everything was amazing with Julia.

‘So,’ Julia said, pulling some leaflets out of her bag. ‘What do you think of this office space?’

‘Office space! Julia! I said I would think about it and you’ve already been looking for offices?’

‘I know, I know, but Claire, look!’

Claire caught sight of an image – a New York-style loft – huge windows with views looking over Manchester. Pulling it towards her, she peered over her sunglasses at Julia reproachfully before glancing at the leaflet. She couldn’t help but be curious. ‘I’m just looking, Julia – it doesn’t mean I’ve agreed to this, okay?’

‘Okay,’ replied Julia, nonchalantly, hiding her smile behind her wine glass. But they both knew Julia had won. Together they would go into business and set up their own law firm, Stephens & Carmichael.

3

‘This lamb is just perfect, Claire,’ announced her mother and Claire looked up in surprise. It was unlike her mother to be so complimentary. She waited a moment before responding. There was usually something to follow. And sure enough.

‘Did you cook it or did Lucy do it?’

Claire deliberately took her time to finish her mouthful of food.

‘I cooked it,’ she lied, looking her mum directly in the eye.

‘Well, it tastes delicious,’ said her father, clearly trying to make up for his wife’s insinuation.

Claire took a gulp of wine and wished she hadn’t invited them. She tried not to think how she could be curled up with Chris on the sofa reading or watching TV. She and Chris didn’t get too many evenings together and she knew they’d get even less when she went back to work full-time.