Gerry pulled out the stool beside Michael and sat on it. It was the stuff of nightmares. She had phoned Gerry on Easter Monday, complaining that she was bored, in the hope that he would ask her out. Disgusted as Gina and Eamonn were at the idea of her sleeping with Gerry, at least he was single and the right religion. She moved along the counter and introduced him to Eamonn, praying her brother would not say anything more. She could feel Michael’s eyes burning her skin. Gerry mentioned Leeds United and Eamonn visibly relaxed; they were both fans and, for the next few minutes, chatted as if she didn’t exist. There was a good chance the club would make it to the European Cup Final. They might even win, only the second English club to do so. Bremner, Lorimer, Giles, great side.

Nice guy, like, said Eamonn, coming to where she was skulking beneath the television. Go round and sit with him.

The nearest empty stool was at the far end of the bar. Gerry carried it over and she tried not to look at Michael while they made space – horrifyingly – between them.

Recognising Michael, Gerry said, How’s about you?

Hello again.

We’re going to see Chinatown, said Gerry. It’ll be my fourth time. Lavery here hasn’t seen it.

I see, said Michael, taking a pen from his pocket. He unfurled his newspaper, snapping it open, and began filling in words on the crossword.

Further along the bar, Fidel lifted the English tabloid he bought daily that was full of sport and busty women, waving it at Michael. Wee Jimmy here did the crossword as well, he said. He began reading the nonsensical words the old man had written. Blibs. Sttor. Amicth. Beside him, Jimmy’s eyes were bright, a gormless smile revealing dentures too big for his gums. Michael glanced up sharply, then slapped his paper on to the counter.

Leave Jimmy alone, said Cushla.

Fidel spread his hands. I’m only having him on, he said.

Minty began telling a dirty joke, looking at Cushla slyly from time to time. She missed the set-up and was only half-listening, distracted by Michael’s proximity. She glanced at him and their eyes locked. He was furious. For a mad moment her hand rose from her lap. She put it under her thigh, afraid it would betray her by touching him. The beer tap sputtered and Minty delivered the punchline: ‘I always forget to take my tights off.’

Gerry turned to Michael and made a face. The old ones are the best, he said.

Quite, said Michael.

Gerry went to the gents. Michael lit a cigarette, glaring at her briefly as he took the first drag.

You smoke like a teenager, said Cushla. As if you’re afraid you’ll be caught.

He’s rather taken with you, said Michael.

Are you joking?