It was Professor Mac an Bhaird who heard Inteachán sobbing late on that awful evening.

Who left his door open in case she needed someone. Who woke to find Inteachán curled up asleep at the end of his narrow bed. Who smiled and didn’t speak. Who allowed Inteachán to just sit. Until she was ready to talk.

‘You may call me Mac,’ he said kindly.

Now they talk all the time.