Stella

You know how the boys are doing club appearances?

which is for them, not for me.

I feel like, again, with the right people meeting in my path, I would like to potentially do school appearances and potentially give a pep talk to the young girls, all young girls and boys, you know, because at the end of the day, we all have the same heart, the same brain.

It doesn't matter, boy or girl.

I do connect with young people.

I do connect with kids really well.

She needs some TLC. Well, it is her favorite. Exactly. And, well, I wanted to talk to you. Who? Look, I haven't checked with Pip about it yet, but are you free on Thursday? Her appointments come through at the clinic. I can be free. Of course I can. What time? Quarter to eleven.

I think she'd really appreciate it if you came with us, Ruth, and so would I. I'd like to very much, if I won't be in the way. Of course not. Thanks for asking. I didn't like to offer. Why not? You're her fiancé, Stella. You don't need me sticking me all in. You wouldn't be. And, well, not to put too fine a point on it, Ruth, you know what to expect. You've been through it.

A long time ago. Yeah, but I don't suppose you've forgotten. No, no, of course I haven't. If people'd like it, of course I'll come. I can drive us if you like. Oh yes, please. That would be a bit of pressure off.

I know it's only a lump and the chances are it's nothing sinister. I tell myself that five times an hour. And you're right to. But even so it doesn't go away. I know. The lying awake at four in the morning, all the what-ifs racing around your head. Yeah, it's hard. It's not like me to be such a worrier.

But they don't hurt, not as long as I keep the door closed. So please don't worry about me. I'm not gonna fall to bits. It's not you I'm worried about. Is Pip struggling? Should I come over? No, no, she's okay. Quiet, very calm, very practical. All the things I think I am, only I'm not.

You're quite wise, aren't you, on the quiet? I don't know about that. Check with Pip, and if she says yes, I'll pick you up about half past nine.