Getting into bed, I make one last petition to the good Lord. "God, if only my husband could just walk in my shoes, he might understand how I feel with the hot flashes, no best way to write an essay and anxious thoughts, and the depression that comes and goes. Men have it made. If only I was born a man."

'Tamsy,' said Piers very firmly, 'I'm glad you've come. We all are; but if nobody else is – I'm glad you've come.'