Jermaine O’Shay walked back behind the bar and, bringing back the bottle of malt, he poured them each another large drink, before saying sincerely, ‘To us. The new order.’

Michael grinned. ‘I’ll drink to that.’

He was tired out. He had never completely understood just how much Patrick Costello had actually done until now. He had assumed that Patrick had given him the lion’s share of the work. Now, though, he realised that the real money was what Patrick had concentrated on, and that was a full-time job in itself. Michael was having to work day and night to keep on top of everything and, even though he was given the same respect as Patrick Costello, he didn’t have a Michael of his own, so he was having to gradually farm the lesser work out. He had not been too bothered at first, knowing that he just had to find the right people for the right jobs, and that might take time.

Josephine being pregnant again had changed everything. He needed to get things in place as soon as possible so he could concentrate on her. She was a diamond, never complaining about his late nights, always ready to listen to him. He knew she would stand by him through anything life might throw at them. Now it was his turn, and he wanted to be there for her. He would do anything to see that this child came into the world. She deserved a baby so much, and her craving for a child of her own was painful to watch. He owed her this, and no matter what happened, he was going to be there beside her.

Chapter Fifty

Chapter Fifty

‘Michael, will you go out, please? I am OK.’

Her husband was starting to get on Josephine’s nerves now. He was always asking how she was, staying in with her, offering everything from back rubs to cups of tea. It was wearing her out. All this attention was really irritating, and he watched her like a hawk.

‘I just want to help you, darling.’

Josephine sighed. ‘You want to help me, do you?’

Michael nodded. He looked like a lost Boy Scout. ‘Of course I do.’

‘Then go out, will you? I know you have loads of stuff to sort out. I also know you want to help me. But all I want is a bit of space. I am OK! I feel good. But you’re making me feel nervous, like you’re waiting for this to go wrong.’

Michael was devastated. He was trying to be the good guy. He was worried about her, and he was worried that she might lose the baby. It would obliterate her, as it always had. ‘Oh, darling, I just want you to know you are my priority. I spend so much time out and about. I love you. I want to be there for you.’