The Names

Cora and her children move into a flat after Gordon goes to prison for killing Vihaan. Cora’s mother, Sílbhe, travels from Ireland to stay with them for a while. Mehri and Fern are a further source of support, becoming like family to them.

Maia is like a second mother to her ebullient younger brother. Bear calls Maia “Bees” and refers to Cora as “Mama Bear.” Maia startles easily and has regular therapy appointments. Gordon’s absence transforms Cora’s life. She has a gardening job on the grounds of a stately home and dances for fun.

When Julian is a toddler, Gordon kills Cora when she attempts to leave him. Gordon goes to jail, and Julian and Maia move to Ireland to live with their grandmother Sílbhe. A widow, Sílbhe, was romantically involved with Cian Brennan, a jeweler, before Cora’s death. However, she puts the relationship on hold, devoting herself to the responsibility of caring for her traumatized grandchildren.

Despite attending counseling, Maia wets the bed every night. She is ashamed that her younger brother does not suffer the same problem. Maia has ballet lessons as a way to connect with her deceased mother. Julian’s favorite pastime is making bobbin spangles for his grandmother’s neighbor, Eileen, who is a lacemaker.