Wayne O'Donoghue's girlfriend has been giving evidence in his trial at the Central Criminal Court for the murder of his friend Robert Holohan.
Rebecca Dennehy told the jury she loved Mr O'Donoghue and her feelings have not changed. She described the 21-year-old as brilliant, genuine and caring.
After admitting to gardaí that he had killed 11-year-old Robert, Mr O'Donoghue asked to be allowed meet with Ms Dennehy. She said it broke her heart when he told her that he was responsible.
Mr O'Donoghue of Ballyedmond, Midleton in Co Cork, denies murder but admits manslaughter.
Robert's body was discovered at Inch Strand near Midleton on 12 January. He had been missing from his home in Ballyedmond since 4 January.
The jury has been told that Robert died from asphyxia caused by manual strangulation.
The trial has adjourned and will resume on Tuesday.
