Rosalba was silent for so long that, despite her tears, Angela turned round.
Rosalba was staring straight ahead, her eyes unfocused, as if she were looking at something very far away.
When she spoke, it was in a strange, distant voice. It reminded Angela of Domingo's voice when he was reciting what his mother had said.
"We have lived in fear so long that we have made a habit of fear. We have forgotten what it was like to speak freely. But the world is changing, bringing better times. The last man of the mountain is dead and now we can breathe again. We are no longer between the sword and the wall."
Then, with an abrupt change of tone, she went on. "So, you see, Angela, there is nothing for you to worry about. Your child will be born into the best of all worlds."
Angela stood, her hands knotted together and pressed to her breast. She believed every word Rosalba had said. It was like a prophesy. But she was still worried.