9.1Her husband believes she cannot hear him discussing his mistress and another baby with their daughter. But her hearing returned a week ago. While he continues his careful performance of affection, she prepares to leave for a teaching placement far away.
9.2A man whose hearing has recently returned overhears his wife Penelope Peters and son Hughie discussing her relationship with Darren and her plan to hide the circumstances of her pregnancy. She continues signing promises of love, unaware that he knows. He has quietly booked travel to Lumora for volunteer teaching and is waiting for approval before leaving the marriage she believes remains secure.