Donna began eating. Dolly asked God to forgive her for her lies about prison food. But it was for Donna’s own good; the girl was wasting away.

The shrill ringing of the phone on the kitchen wall broke their reveries. Donna got to her feet and picked it up.

‘Hello?’

‘Is that you, Don Don?’

‘Georgio! Where are you?’

‘Calm down, love. I’m still in nick. The prison chaplain got me a call to you. I’ve been feeling a bit down. Missing you, like.’

His voice trailed off. Donna felt her heart bursting with love for this man who would get a call to her because he missed her so much.

‘It’s so lovely to hear your voice, Georgio.’ Her own voice was scratchy with emotion. ‘I miss you too, love. More every day, in fact. I can’t believe I’m talking to you.’

Georgio sighed heavily. ‘Listen, Donna, do me a favour. Put Dolly on for a second, would you?’

‘Of course. Dolly, come and talk. It’s Georgio!’

Dolly took the phone in shock. ‘Hello, Georgio?’ The words came out high-pitched in disbelief.

‘Listen to me, Dolly, and listen good. Someone might be sending someone to see Donna, and it won’t be a friendly visit. Don’t say a word, just tell Big Paddy what I told you. Say that Lewis is out to get me.’

Dolly’s face blanched. ‘I’ll do that, mate. Here’s Donna back. She’s champing at the bit to talk to you.’

‘Thanks, Dolly.’

‘Georgio, is everything all right?’

He laughed down the phone. ‘I tried it on with the chaplain love, told him I was depressed and wanted to top meself. He arranged for me to make this call.’

Donna’s voice was small as she answered, ‘Don’t talk about killing yourself, Georgio. Especially after what happened to Wilson.’

The line went quiet and Donna wished fervently she could take back those few words.

‘You know about him then?’

Donna nodded, forgetting he couldn’t see her.

‘I miss you, Don Don. I love you, darlin’. You’re my life, don’t ever forget that. You’re my whole life.’

‘And you’re mine, Georgio. Always have been. I went to see your barrister with Maeve and he’s got the appeal in hand. So try not to worry, all right?’

‘All right, Donna love. Look, I’ve got to go, the chaplain’s back in the office with me. Come and visit soon, and bring Big Paddy with you. I’d love to see him, all right? Promise me you’ll bring Big Paddy?’

Donna wiped her eyes with her fingers. ‘I’ll bring him, Georgio. Don’t worry.’

‘Good girl. I’ve got to run. I love you, darlin’.’

‘I love you too.’ Before she finished talking the line was dead.