‘No, really, I’m fine, but thank you.’ Unconsciously I’d stepped back towards Lorcan as his mum began fussing over me. The dams of emotion had already been busted once today and the last thing I wanted to do was burst into tears in front of a kitchen full of people I’d never met. As I moved, I felt the warmth of Lorcan’s hand at my waist, the steady weight of it resting softly, just letting me know he was there and I was safe. The latter I certainly had no need to have worried about. After the initial lull in conversation, and introductions completed, I’d been made to feel part of the family almost at once, all of them wrapping me in a kindness that made me feel secure and relaxed. I spent time, money and energy every week attending yoga classes, all with varying names and claims, and yet not once had I ever felt as relaxed as I did now, sitting at this table, being absorbed into the heart of an Irish family.

* * *

‘I hope that wasn’t all a bit much,’ Lorcan said later as he sat on a wicker chair in my room while I unpacked the rest of my things and put them into the wardrobe. ‘The family can be a bit full on if you’re not used to it. I didn’t realise everyone was coming this evening. That particular message seems to have been left out of the family WhatsApp group chat.’

‘Perhaps they thought you’d veto it on my, or your own, behalf if you were told.’

‘It would have been on your behalf – and yes, you’re probably right.’

‘Then I’m glad they didn’t tell you because I had a lovely evening. You have a wonderful family, Lorcan.’

‘I do.’ He nodded. ‘Drive me round the bend some of the time, but I wouldn’t swap them for the world.’

‘And I can see why. As for the rest, I think that’s just part of being a family, isn’t it?’

He smiled, accepting the rhetorical question. ‘I was concerned you might feel a little overwhelmed.’

‘I know you were. And I appreciate that you were ready to bundle me out at my signal, but, once I was over the initial shock, it was good. Your mum is such a good cook, too,’ I said, patting my tummy.

‘She is that. I can always call you for a five a.m. run tomorrow to burn the stew off if you like.’

‘Very funny,’ I replied over my shoulder as I hung my last dress in the cupboard and closed the door. ‘Somehow I think running around for this wedding is going to keep me pretty trim, especially chivvying that photographer. I have to say I’m still concerned about him.’

‘I know you are. What are you going to do?’