With a wide grin, Abby practically leaped from the bed."Are you ready for dinner?""Yes, I think all that fresh air worked up my appetite."He strode toward her, powerless at the sight of her, all swollen with child. She was lovely, even with the bruises still on her face; the radiance of that smile and the pink glow in her cheeks was enough to light up the room. Taking her arm, Eric guided her out the door.When they entered the wardroom where all the officers gathered for dinner, a momentary silence fell as all eyes focused on Abby. Eric sensed her tightening up and her fingernails dug into his arm. She must have felt as if she were on display. He directed a stern look at Joe, and the first officer took control. He used his own stern glance to send the officers back to their meals.As he guided Abby to the middle of the table, he pulled out the empty chair beside his, and then helped this lovely woman ease into her chair. Since they had ordered the meals earlier, once they were seated their two meals were placed in front of them by the seaman on duty.Abby's mouth watered at the tantalizing smells of roast beef, potatoes, and broccoli.
