‘Of course you do. But time changes things. You might feel differently when she’s a bit older – and when you’re earning a bit more, which no doubt you will be very soon, if I know you. You’ve always worked so hard. And then helping with the baby on top of all the pressure of your job …’ She turned to me. ‘I know he’s my son and I’m biased, but you’re such a lucky girl, Stina.’

‘I know,’ I conceded, smiling through clenched teeth.

Jack looked mortified. He had actually been marvellous, but it was almost as though Sylvia thought I should be worshipping him for it. We were a unit; we shared things. Elodie belonged to both of us, and while I knew that I was ultimately responsible for feeding her, Jack was her father and I expected him to pull his weight when possible. If it had been left to his mother, I think I’d have been waiting on him hand and foot and bringing him his pipe and slippers at the end of the day. It was as if I should simply be grateful that he had chosen me and ask no more of him.

We said our goodbyes and I felt my whole body relax as their car pulled away. Closing the front door, Jack pulled me to him and stooped to kiss my cheek.

‘Thank you. I know she can be a pain in the arse, but she means well. I think it’s a bit of a ball ache for my poor old dad, though. Anyway, we won’t be seeing them again for a while, so you can breathe now!’

‘I’m sorry if I was tetchy. I know your mum has a good heart really – I just wish she hadn’t said that to Mrs Barley. And I’m not too sure she likes me sometimes, either.’

He looked surprised. ‘Don’t be silly! She thinks you’re wonderful. And why wouldn’t she?’

I laughed. ‘If you say so.’ I wasn’t going to justify my thoughts and left it at that. I felt bad for Mrs Barley and hoped she hadn’t been upset by Sylvia’s thoughtlessness. I was grateful that we didn’t have to see Jack’s mother too often or I think I might have exploded.

It was Saturday and although Jack usually went in for morning surgery, he had been able to take the whole day off. The weather was cold but bright, and he was keen to get me out in the fresh air. I had been advised that gentle walking would be helpful after the C-section, but was a little reluctant nevertheless. We wrapped Elodie up in her pink quilted snuggle suit that Jack’s parents had bought for her, and tucked a warm blanket round her in the pram.