Normally I keep my phone off during meetings, but I had set my iPhone to MAX volume with a siren ringtone if the NHS called. I was in the middle of a Teams call when the siren exploded. It was someone from not on the character list telling me I needed to come in this Friday. (It was Wednesday, for those without access to a calendar.)

“Can you tell me what is happening?” ”Is this good or bad?”

Response: “We can discuss everything when you come in.” No amount of pleading, grovelling, or dramatic whimpering helped.

I couldn’t concentrate for the rest of the meeting. The moment it ended, I went straight through to The Rock for a panic huddle. Why wouldn’t they tell me? Why do they want to see me so fast? It can only be bad. It’s spread. I know it has.

I have three minutes left to live.