“Hey hon. I’m going to take Lucy and Hattie to the park for a while. Want to join us?

“Oh. I- I’m not feeling great, John.”

“Maybe you just need some fresh air?”

“No. I think I’d better just stay home.”

“Maybe you’re… you know… pregnant?”

“Don’t get your hopes up, John. It’s just a migraine.”

“Oh. Well, can I get you anything while we’re out?”

“No, it’s fine. But do me a favour and stay out til dark, OK? I need peace and quiet for as long as possible.”

“Sure, hon. Rest up and we’ll come back around 7.”

“OK. There’s leftovers in the fridge for dinner.”

“I could get pizza-”

“Just eat what’s in the fridge, John. We’re not made of money.”

“No problem, hon. Of course.”

“Has Lucy done her homework?”

“I think so. If she hasn’t, I’ll help her when we get back. Feel better, babe.”

“Thanks, John.”

[five minutes later]

“Komei? I’ve just bought us two whole hours. Come straight over.”