Knave of Hearts. Caroline Anderson

up.’ He washed his hands thoroughly, pulled on a pair of gloves and began to examine her.

      ‘Well, your cervix is dilating nicely, about six centimetres, and the head’s certainly well down. I just want you to relax as much as you can, Mrs Hamilton. I’m going to try and push the baby down to see how snug the fit is. It may be a little uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t hurt.’

      With one hand on the smooth curve of the baby’s bottom, he pushed steadily down, his brow creased with concentration. After a few seconds, he released the pressure, straightened up and stripped off his gloves.

      ‘Well,’ he said, as he rewashed his hands, ‘it’s certainly going to be close, but the presentation is excellent, and I think you should manage it.’ He dried his hands and smiled reassuringly at Lizzi. ‘I’ll order a scan now, just to be on the safe side, but I’m pretty confident you’ll be all right.’

      They left Lizzi with the midwife, and a few seconds later Ross followed them out.

      ‘Could I have a word?’ he asked Jake.

      ‘Sure—let’s have a cup of coffee. Coming, Annie?’ They went into Sister’s office, and Jake poured three cups of coffee from the jug in the corner.

      ‘Ifs and buts?’ Ross asked without preamble.