However simple the setting, the rite itself had a stirring pomp and grandeur here, as it would in Saint Patrick’s magnificent cathedral on Fifth Avenue. She felt solid and steady sitting beside Brianna, listening to the lyrical tone of the priest, the murmured responses from the congregation, the occasional cry or whimper of a child.

Murphy’s family was across the narrow aisle, taking up two pews. And hers—for she was beginning to think of them as her family—ranged together in one.

When they stood for the final blessing, Liam clambered over the pew and held up his arms to her. She hoisted him onto her hip, grinning when he pursed his lips.

“Pretty,” he said in a stage whisper when she’d obliged him with a kiss. His pudgy fingers went to the citrine and amethyst stones she wore at her ears. “Mine.”

“Nope. Mine.” She carried him out with her as the congregation emptied the pews and spilled out into the late morning sunshine.

“Pretty,” he said again, so hopefully, that she rooted through her purse to see if she could find something to please him.

“She is that, lad.” Murphy snatched Liam away, tossing him high to make him laugh. “Pretty as a May morning.”

Shannon felt a little thrill ripple up her spine. Only hours before they’d been naked, sweaty, and locked together. Now they were trimmed out for church and surrounded by people. It didn’t stop fresh need from curling in her gut.

Pulling a small mirror out of her bag, she aimed it at Liam. “There’s pretty.”

Delighted, Liam clutched at it and began to make faces at himself.

“Look, Ma.” Nearby Kate cradled her youngest on her shoulder. “They look like a little family together there. Did you ever think Murphy would set his sights on a Yank? And such a fancy one?”

“No.” Alice watched them, her emotions mixed and muddled. “I didn’t think it. Used to be I wondered if it would be one of Tom Concannon’s daughters for him. But this I never expected.”

Kate glanced down to where her three-year-old was contentedly plucking at grass and checking its flavor. “You don’t mind?”

“I haven’t decided yet.” Shrugging off the mood, Alice bent and scooped up her grandson. “Kevin, grass isn’t for eating unless you’re a cow. Let’s gather up the troops, Kate. We’ve Sunday dinner to cook.”

Hearing his name hailed, Murphy lifted a hand. “I’ve got to get along. I’ll call for you later.” He passed Liam back to her. “Will you let me kiss you here?”

“Kiss,” Liam agreed and puckered up.

“Not you, lad.” But Murphy kissed him anyway, before shifting up and letting his lips glide lightly over Shannon’s. “Till later.”

“Yes.” She had to concentrate on not sighing like a schoolgirl when he walked off. “Later.”

“Want me to take your load there, Aunt Shannon?” Seeing the way was clear, Rogan stepped forward.

“No. I’ve got him.”

“Looks as though he has you.” And it was a nice stroke of fate, Rogan thought, to have the boy run interference for him. “I was hoping for a word with you. Would you come home with Maggie and me? We’d be pleased to have you for tea. As would Liam.”