‘That’s the Devil coming out of her,’ whispered Cat’s Nana Kelly, who was a big fan of fire and brimstone.

When that part of the service was over, Father O’Leary brought the baby over to where they were all standing. ‘Now, if one of the godparents would like to hold this little one while we light the votive candles?’ he said.

There was a hiatus. No one knew what to do. If Judith offered or declined in favour of the others, it meant engaging with Lana. She sensed the feeling was mutual.

Luckily Sol’s brother stepped in. ‘Come to your Uncle Tom, pet,’ he said, taking her from Father O’Leary’s arms.

The two godmothers were each given a candle to hold and a little card certificate bearing the date and place of Romy’s christening. Judith’s name was on there, along with Tom’s. And Lana’s. This whole thing had obviously been pre-planned and she couldn’t wait for it to be over. She was furious with Cat, and gutted that she’d not been able to enjoy a single moment of what should have been a special event.

They all made their way back to the other end of the church and Father O’Leary concluded the service. The second it finished, Judith headed straight for the side entrance of the church, swiftly followed by Gareth.

‘D’you think she knew?’ asked Gareth. ‘Catrin, I mean. Or d’you think Lana just turned up without warning?’

‘Of course she knew! Her bloody name was on the certificate.’

Over at the main entrance the other guests began pouring out of the church, full of joy and celebration, unaware of the enforced and reluctant reunion that’d just taken place in their presence. Lana was laughing with some of Sol’s relatives and Judith felt shocked by how much she resented it. Lana’s irritating nonchalance. She also resented how good Lana looked. Occasionally over the years Judith had caught sight of her on TV, so she knew what she looked like these days. But seeing her in the flesh was different. She glanced at Gareth to see if he was looking at Lana too. He was. And she was instantly struck by a flash of jealousy – Does he think she’s more attractive than me? she wondered. Or was he just being curious? She cursed herself for being so immature and then noticed that Becky Williams had got her camera out. So that’s why she and her cronies are here! To catch sight of Lana Lloyd! Jesus. When the camera was turned on her and Gareth, Judith looked away.

‘A couple of Mum’s friends need a lift back to the house,’ Catrin called out, walking towards them now, with no reference to what had just happened in the church. ‘I’m afraid I offered your services.’

‘So you knew,’ said Gareth, ignoring the request. ‘That she was coming?’

Catrin blushed. ‘Well, I invited all of you, didn’t I?’ she said, attempting and failing to sound blasé.

‘Right, well we’ll drop your mum’s friends off, but then we’re heading back,’ said Gareth, clearly annoyed.