The Hidden Women: An inspirational novel of sisterhood and strength. Kerry Barrett

       Prologue

      Helena

      April 2015

      ‘I thought you’d be pleased,’ I said, watching Greg’s stony face for any sign of happiness.

      ‘Well I’m not.’ His expression softened, just a bit, and he sat down next to me on the sofa and took my hand.

      ‘It’s just too soon,’ he said.

      ‘We’ve been together for five years, Greg,’ I snapped. ‘It’s not like we just met.’

      He had the grace to look at least slightly ashamed.

      ‘I meant for me, not us,’ he said. ‘It’s too soon for me. And you. We’re still young. We should be out having fun, not at home with a squawking baby.’

      ‘We’re in our thirties; we’re not kids,’ I said, resting my head against the sofa cushions. I felt sick and I didn’t think it was just because of my unexpected pregnancy.

      I’d done the test that morning, and showed Greg the unmistakeable dark line as he brushed his teeth.

      ‘It’s positive,’ I’d said, feeling a tiny shiver of excitement mixed with fear. ‘I’m pregnant.’

      Greg had glanced at the plastic stick and then kissed me, his breath minty fresh.