The following day, Bryan drove her to the coast. They spent the day on the sand, swimming in the warm waters of the Gulf of Cadiz. Sharon felt self conscious in her stylish one piece bathing costume. Her stomach hadn't started to swell yet but her waistline had started thickening and she felt embarrassed beneath Bryan's cool searching scrutiny.

'I'm ugly', she said sharply, disconcerted by his silence. 'And soon, I'll hardly be able to move'.

He smiled with understanding. 'You are beautiful', he said softly. 'So beautiful. Pregnancy suits you. I know because it suited you the first time as well as this time. Your eyes are sparkling, your...