Frankie stood in the doorway and smiled. ‘It’s my treat for food today. No need to give him any money. You save it for yourself. I’m taking Ged down the market to see if he can get some work too. I work there helping the traders, unloading and packing away, and I’m sure I can get him on. It’s good money and it’s only a few hours after school each day.’

Clare couldn’t have been more delighted to hear this. Seemed this Frankie was a great role model for her son, just what he needed in his life right now.

‘Oh, that would be great, Frankie. I’ve told him before to look for work but he’s never off that bleeding game. You’ve done me a favour. I’ll tell you, most days I need a crowbar to get him up off that bed. No motivation that one.’

Ged was mortified. Why did she need to be going on like that? He had to shut her up and quick.

‘Mam, go and get back in bed and stop waffling. I’m looking for work so you can relax. You might even get a little treat if I get a job.’

Clare arched her eyebrows. ‘I won’t hold my breath. The proof is in the pudding, son, seeing is believing.’

Ged was ready to leave. Frankie gave him the nod then turned and faced Clare. ‘Nice meeting you. I’ll look after your boy, don’t worry about him, he’s in safe hands with me.’ He walked towards the door, Ged right behind him as Clare shouted, ‘No kiss then?’

Ged stomped back and pecked her on her cheek. Mothers, eh? They were so fucking embarrassing.

Frankie kept his head down low as they left the house. He was edgy, looking over his shoulder and checking everything out. ‘So, what time are you going to see your old man, then?’

‘The visit is two o’clock, but I have to get there at least half an hour before.’

Frankie nodded. ‘I know a few kids who are in the big house too. Johnny Weston got five years shoved up his arse last month and Roy Jennings got an eight stretch. They’re both in Strangeways too. You might even see them. Top lads they are too, fucking ruthless.’

Ged was intrigued. ‘What did they get sent down for?’

‘Drugs, they got caught, banged to rights, they were lucky with their sentences too, they could have got a lot more time. They got off lightly if you was to ask me.’

Ged walked at Frankie’s side, following his lead and looking behind him every now and again. Frankie moved in closer and spoke.