On the way to the hospital, Jack called Ridley back. Ridley was concerned whether Jack could safely get on the inside of De Voe’s operation in the space of a couple of days. ‘I’m going to go in as a buyer, sir,’ Jack reassured him. ‘Meet De Voe and assess the situation from there. He’s clearly a smart guy who keeps a good distance from the sharp end, so I’m going to take my lead from him.’

‘Fair enough,’ Ridley conceded. ‘Oh, and well done for sticking to your guns with Charlotte, by the way. But be careful, Jack. Stubborn self-belief can come across as insubordination with you. I can hear you smiling, but you know I’m right.’

Jack was smiling now. ‘If you’re around tomorrow morning, sir, I’d like to come in for a proper tactical briefing.’ It was quickly agreed that Jack would be in Ridley’s office by seven. Jack then disconnected the call and pulled into the hospital grounds.

*

Maggie had her professional doctor’s head firmly on as she sat by Regina’s bedside in the small, four-bay ward, talking her through the potential complications she might expect in the coming months. But when she saw Jack at the window, a lump immediately formed in her throat, forcing her to excuse herself and leave the room. Taking Jack by the wrist she dragged him out of sight of Regina and then she leant heavily against the wall, and exhaled. Jack pulled Maggie’s head forwards onto his chest, supporting her weight as she sagged against him. ‘I’ve got you. Don’t do too much, Mags. You’re no good to any of us if you’re worn out.’ Maggie leant back, so they could look at each other.

‘How are Regina and the baby? Mum mentioned Herb’s palsy or something,’ Jack said.

‘Erb’s. E-R-B-S. There could be the option to operate but, if not, then it’ll mean paralysis. And it’s bilateral, so it’s affecting both arms.’ Maggie put the palms of her hands flat against Jack’s chest. ‘She won’t be able to lift her arms.’ Maggie put her hands round Jack’s waist to hug him tight.

When Maggie and Jack went back onto the ward, Maggie was surprised that Jack wasn’t saying comforting words to Regina; he just hugged her. Perhaps he didn’t know what to say, or perhaps he thought actions spoke louder than words – either way, Regina seemed grateful for his kindness, as waves of worry ebbed through her mind. Jack then asked the one question that Maggie had forgotten to ask.

‘How’s Mario?’

Regina had spent the past few days talking non-stop with various people about herself and the baby, but this was the first time anyone had asked about Mario, and she immediately burst into tears.