Fran’s green eyes glittered with regret. ‘I’m sorry, but there’s so little time left before the end of the month, and the journey to Ireland will take two days from here. We plan to be in Ireland for a week, and then travel straight to London, leaving us only four days to settle in before Robert has to be in his office. So you see, Aunt Peg, we have no other option but to leave as soon as possible.’

Peggy wished wholeheartedly that she could go with her, but merely nodded, forced to accept that Fran now had Robert by her side to support and guide her through this journey that would undoubtedly be an extremely difficult and emotional one.

‘Then we must make the most of you while we can,’ she said. ‘I’ll see if Alf has got a joint of beef or something under the counter so we can have a proper roast on your last night.’

‘It’s already in hand and paid for, Peggy,’ said Robert. ‘I’m picking it up on Saturday morning.’

‘Bless you, dear,’ managed Peggy. ‘You didn’t have to do that.’

‘Oh, but I did,’ said Robert stoutly. ‘You’ve loved and cared for my girl ever since she came to Cliffehaven, given us a home to start our married life in, and seen Fran through her darkest days. A joint of meat is nothing in comparison.’

To avoid further protest, and clearly feeling a bit embarrassed by his unusually long and emotional speech, he pushed away from the table. ‘We’re off to the Anchor to celebrate my promotion, so if any of you feel like joining us, the first drink is on me.’

Cissy, Rita, Sarah and Cordelia immediately set about fetching coats and outdoor shoes whilst Danuta swiftly finished her meal so she could join them, but Peggy was tired and really not in the mood for celebration. ‘I’ll stay here with Daisy and put her to bed if you don’t mind,’ she said. ‘It’s been a long day for both of us, and we have another early start tomorrow.’

Cissy and Cordelia understood her reluctance and chivvied the others out. ‘We won’t be back late, Mum,’ said Cissy. ‘And I’ll bring you something as a nightcap.’

‘Come on, Ivy,’ said Rita impatiently. ‘I’ve only got an hour before I’m due at the fire station.’

‘I’ll catch up with you,’ Ivy replied.

‘It’s not like you to lag behind when there’s a free drink on offer,’ teased Peggy as Rita crashed the back door shut behind her.

‘Yeah, I know, but it don’t feel right taking free drinks when I ain’t got the money to pay for a round.’

‘What is it, Ivy?’ asked Peggy gently. ‘You’ve been very quiet all evening.’