Nikki, who was sitting by Flora’s bed, said, “I know, but he’s not coming back. He can’t hurt our family any more, but the McDades are going to pay for this.”

Isla had told them the whole story. She had run just like Flora told her to, and found help, who had phoned the police. While Flora and Mack were trying to find them, Nikki got a call from the police to tell her they had been found.

“I can’t believe he took them to the same place we kicked the fuck out of him, to kill them,” Mack said.

“He thought it would hurt us more, but he didn’t realize who this amazing girlfriend of yours was,” Nikki said.

Mack came back over to the hospital bed and sat next to Nikki. She took Flora’s hand and kissed it tenderly.

“Do you know what she must have gone through, not just physically? And she still protected Isy.”

“She’s as brave as a lioness, Mack. I’ll never be able to repay her for saving Isy.”

“I’m so proud of her, but looking at her beautiful face covered in bruises makes me sick,” Mack said.

Nikki patted her on the back. “She’ll be looked after for the rest of her life. Flo is one of us now. Mum and Aunt Mary are just waiting for her to get home to fuss around after her.”

Mack nodded. Uncle Thomas, Aunt Chrissy, and her mum were beyond grateful for what Flora had done and were making preparations to welcome her home to the Sharkey homes when she was ready.

Flora started to stir, and her eyes flickered open. Mack was up in a second, sitting on the bed and stroking her hair.

“Hiya, wee mouse.”

“Oww,” Flora said as she wriggled in bed.

“Try not to move. You’ve got broken ribs and a lot of bruising.”

“Isy? She okay?” Flora asked.

“She’s absolutely fine. Isn’t she, Nik?”

Nikki stood up so Flora wouldn’t have move to see her. “Yes, perfect. She found help. I can’t begin to thank you for protecting her. You were prepared to sacrifice yourself for my girl.”

“And I would again,” Flora croaked.

“Mack told me you had no family left after your grandpa died. I want you to know, you do now. You’re a Sharkey officially.” Nikki looked at Mack and grinned. “Or unofficially. You’ll always have us.”

“Thank you.” Tears started to fall from Flora’s eyes.

Nikki bent down and kissed her forehead. “I’ll let you two be alone now.”

“Tell Isy I can’t wait to see her.”

“I will do. See you at home, Mack.”

“Thanks, Nik.”

After she left, Flora asked, “What about the woman?”

“The one that helped abduct you both?”

“Yes.”

“She’s in hospital too. Bad concussion, they said.”