The burly Irishman and the woman he loved slept in each other’s arms, and Bianca lay, snuggled and safe as she thought of St Just. He had looked so thin, emaciated even, as he lay in the ICU.

Although the two of them had wanted to stay at the hospital all night, the doctors had dissuaded them.

“Mrs O’Grady,” said the matron, indicating Bianca and failing to see the blush on Bianca’s face at the words,” She’s pregnant and needs her rest, Sir.”

O’Grady had ...