Pica, a tendency or craving to eat substances other than normal food such as clay, plaster,

or ashes occurring during childhood or pregnancy or as a symptom of disease.

16th July 2016.

I didn't notice Gemma running to the toilet in the middle of the night.

I woke to the sound of her dry heaves, but as I came to and saw the sliver of light

escape from beneath the bathroom door, I knew it was her.

I entered slowly and asked if she was okay.

She stayed silent for a moment, catching a breath.

I'm pregnant, she said.

My body...

chilled at the news.

Are you sure?

I asked.

Without taking her head out of the toilet bowl, she held up the pregnancy test.

Are you gonna say anything?

She asked.

As the news sunk in, the initial anxiety turned to excitement and my smile grew.

30th July 2016.

When I got home from work, I cooked dinner.

I did my best to steam the vegetables and grill the chicken, though I didn't do a good

job.

I think I may have overdone the broccoli, I said, taking a bite and feeling it turned to

...