Cian jumps from the sofa, runs and hug me. ‘Mammy, mammy, mammy.’ Aaron pulls himself up off the floor and walks over, dragging a small bean bag with him. Releasing Cian from my hug, I put him on the ground then kneel to give Aaron a hug.

‘They were fighting over that earlier,’ Amber says, nodding at the bean bag that Aaron doesn’t want to let go of. He puts one arm out to hug me. Holding him close I squeeze him a little tighter than I should, inhaling his innocence before releasing him back into his own little world. Pale blue eyes dominate his chubby face, blonde hair hangs like puppy tails across his forehead.

‘Cocoa.’

‘Of course, Aaron, Mammy’s going to make you cocoa now… do you want some, Cian?’

Cian jumps. ‘Yes. Yes. Yes.’ They follow me into the kitchen, sit at the table and wait for their hot chocolate with marshmallows floating on top. Aaron always wants five exactly, no more, no less. Cian likes as many as I can fit in the mug.

‘I think I should have my own TV in my room.’ Amber walks into the kitchen claiming it’s impossible to watch her programmes with the twins playing in front of the television. And if Kenny can have one, why can’t she?

I never wanted a situation where everyone stayed in different rooms watching television instead of mixing with their family but things have changed. Once again I must lower my standards, I tell her I’ll think about it.

‘Maybe your dad can pick one up at the weekend.’

Amber thanks me then rushes out of the room before I can change my mind or attach conditions to it.

The smell of chocolate fills the air reminding me I haven’t eaten yet. When the boys are in bed I’ll ring for a take-out.

With the marshmallows on board I hand the boys two mugs asking them to be careful not to spill any when Kenny walks into the kitchen.

‘Oh sorry… I didn’t know you were in here.’ He turns to walk back out.

‘Kenny, come back.’ He stops and turns to look at me. ‘You can come in here whenever you like, you don’t have to wait until the room is empty. If this is going to work you’re going to have to feel at home. I want you to feel at home, so come on in, whatever it is you want, take it.’

Slowly, his eyes travel around the room like he’s reassessing his needs.

‘Would you like a hot chocolate?’

Kenny watches the boys pick marshmallows out of their mugs.

‘Don’t worry… I won’t give you a Thomas the Tank mug.’ He smiles at me. The kid has a lovely smile.

‘Okay, thank you, Sally.’