Hot Mess

by Lucy Vine

I can only tell you that I like being single. I like my freedom, I like being selfish. My life isn’t exactly how I pictured it, but being on my own has never been an issue. I love my own space and I worry what a relationship would do to that. Even the best boyfriends in the world are difficult and need shouting at occasionally. I haven’t had to shout at anyone at all since I broke up with my ex, Tim. Or been shouted at. I can just be who I want to be. So yeah, I just like being single.’

Having a boyfriend feels like wearing a coat all the time. Like a big oppressive coat. Sometimes you’re cold and it’s nice to have it on – especially in the winter – but mostly I just feel sweaty and claustrophobic in it. And, as my mum always said, keeping your coat on all the time means I won’t feel the benefit when I go outside.