Blackie nodded. “Yes, I noticed how she’s been holding on ter his arm tightly. Perhaps she’s even more nervous and afraid than we realize. The Ham Shank would scare anyone ter death, especially a country girl from round where I grew up in Kerry. The men are rough and have no respect.”

“I couldn’t help noticing how clean Tommy’s cousin Jane’s living room was, and smelling of soap and disinfectant. And a soup was cooking in that pot on the hob. Homey and clean aromas, I must say, as well as good cooking,” Pat confided.

“Yer correct, Uncle Pat. And Jane and Harry were smart enough ter understand that they had ter keep her inside, sure and they did. ’Tis indeed an ugly place, and dangerous. Everyone living there must worry.”

“I hope I never have to enter that cesspool ever again. And here we are, Blackie, my lad! The Blue Door is right ahead, and we’ll receive a great welcome.”

Patrick was correct. Gladys, the waitress who always served them, hurried forward to meet them. There was a huge smile on her face and laughter in her eyes when she exclaimed, “What a sight for sore eyes ye are … the lot of you!” Her beady black eyes settled on Moira and widened as she took in her stunning looks. The waitress was obviously very surprised.

She glanced at Patrick, whom she knew best, and asked, “And where did ye find this beautiful package? Under a Christmas tree, that’s wot I thinks.”

Patrick laughed, and nodded. “You’ve got it exactly right, Gladys love.” He shook his head. “And if I told you where we’d really found her, you’d never believe me anyway.”

“Aye, I would. I’ve always believed what ye’ve told me. Well, come on then, let’s not stand here gawping like a lot of sucking ducks, and looking daft.” With these words she marched ahead, ushering them to Patrick’s favorite part of the café.

He took control immediately, seated Moira and Jack together, with Finn on Moira’s other side. He put Blackie next to Finn and seated himself on Jack’s left. He smiled inwardly as he noticed how pleased his old friend looked being next to Moira, who was obviously filled with relief he was.

It seemed to Patrick that the girl believed she had made a friend, and, in actuality, she had. Jack was as steady as a rock and reliable. True blue. Trustworthy. Respectful.

Gladys handed around five menus and said, “I’ll bring two pots of tea, and now ye can give the menu a quick glance.” She gestured to the blackboard on the opposite wall, and reminded them, “Our Saturday specials are listed over yonder, as ye well knows. Back in a tick.”

“I’d forgotten what a card she is, and then some,” Blackie said, his laughter echoing around the table.