As they sat opposite each other in the snug at The Ivy Inn, a sleepy but determined-not-to-be-ignored Paddy at their feet, they made plans for some more touristy days together before Lorcan went back to England. Jo was even able to laugh as she told him that Ewan McLachlan had clearly found her to be a good tourist guide.

As the evening progressed, and they talked more – about Sophie, and about Colm – about how much Lorcan had loved spending time with Clara and thought kids were the best people in the people, Jo felt herself grow even braver.

After last orders, as he offered to walk her home, she felt the need to reach out to him – to feel his hand in hers. Just as she was trying to talk herself into just going for it, she felt the tips of his fingers brush against hers. The touch sent waves of longing through her – a longing for something more than just physical contact. He took her hand and she gave his a squeeze.

Lorcan stopped walking, and she noticed they were back at the same spot they had shared that first little fizz of something more between them, a week before. What a whirlwind it had been, and yet at the same time, it all felt as if it was unfolding in perfect time.

‘Jo,’ he said, his voice low and soft. She turned, still holding his hand, and looked up at him. She saw so much in him – his strength, his need to be loved, his kindness and his sincerity. ‘I don’t want to be a person who hurts you,’ he said and brushed a loose strand of hair from her face.

‘Then don’t be that person,’ she said, her heart thumping.

‘Yeah, that’s… what I’m saying in the worst, most awkward way possible,’ he said.

‘I’m not sure I totally understand,’ she replied, as she wished his hand was close to her face again, just so she could feel the warmth of it.

He took a deep breath. ‘I think you’re incredible,’ he said. ‘I think you’re funny, and talented and caring. I think you can make a horrible day seem infinitely brighter. I think…’ he paused, and looked downwards, unable to hold her gaze. ‘I think,’ he repeated, ‘you are incredibly beautiful and sexy and comfortable in your own skin.’

‘I don’t know about that.’ She gave an awkward laugh. Everything he said was just so perfect that she found it hard to believe he was talking about her.