Nikki’s parents lived out in the green outskirts of Glasgow, but Nikki was a city woman, and since she left home, the city centre had been her home. The Sharkey empire was run from here and at the office building, just five minutes away.

Mack and Isla had finished their food and were patiently waiting on dessert. Nikki had been eating at a rate of one mouthful per five minutes.

“Mum,” Isla whined. “Put your work away. We’re waiting for ice cream.”

Nikki looked over at their empty plates. “Sorry, little bug.”

“You aren’t meant to do work at the table.”

Nikki scooped up some of the food and ate it quickly. “I’m done. Can you take the plates, and then we’ll get ice cream?”

“Okay.”

Once Isla was away, Nikki asked Mack, “How are things at the shop?

“It’s been fantastic. I’m loving every day. I was lucky to get Liam on board. He’s going to help me so much.”

“I’m so glad you’re enjoying it. You deserve it,” Nikki said.

“Don’t, Nik.”

“Don’t what?”

“Don’t keep feeling guilty. There’s nothing to feel guilty about.” Mack looked towards the kitchen area of the open-plan apartment, to make sure Isy was busy and not able to hear her. “You know how Isy has been. Can you imagine how she would have reacted if you went to prison? It wouldn’t bear thinking about. She needs her mum.”

Nikki shot a look over to Isy and said, “I know, but I still feel guilty. I’ll never be able to repay you.”

“Shut up, Nik.”

Nikki laughed. Mack was one of the few people who could say that to Nikki.

She then shouted over to Isla. “Can you just bring the ice cream, bug?”

Isla sighed and rolled her eyes. “You’re talking?”

Mack’s niece was used to some conversations being adults only. It’s how she was brought up.

“She’s definitely going to be a moody teenager,” Mack said.

“Don’t I know it. If only she was as confident outside of the family. So, have you made any progress with your neighbour next door?”

“Yeah, the letter made things easier, but I helped her when some kids were getting out of hand in the shop, and that broke the ice. I haven’t mentioned that night we met. I don’t think she can face it.”

They heard a bark and turned around to see Isla feeding Dexter ice cream from a spoon. Mack laughed but Nikki sighed. “Isy, stop that.”

“Dexter helped,” Mack said. “I mean with Flora. She likes dogs, so he’s helped with the conversation.”

Isla brought the bowls over to the table and went back to pick up the ice cream. “You’re determined to make her your friend.”