Me: Where is Chris?
Nell: Harriet is having her special time with him. Yesterday was so busy and they weren’t able to talk. She values his opinion.
Me: Is Poppy with them?
Nell: Yes. Poppy is on a break before lunch service so she has joined them for cuddles. They are discussing relationships.
Me: Really?
Nell: Yes. Chris enjoys reggae but thinks Dog Marley should stick to singing. He wants to meet Jim the Farm Dog, though.
Me: Good. Where is Dave?
Nell: David is sleeping after his morning training. He is learning Jiu Jitsu and has a natural aptitude apparently. Chris thinks it’s a good way of channelling David’s excess energy.
Me: Good idea. Have you seen Mutley?
Nell: Mutley is with John the Doberman. The Beefies have launched a crab and cranberry fish cake for Christmas and John is wondering if Starbarks should retaliate.
Me: We don’t want a fish fight.
Nell: Don’t be silly.
Me: It’s a busy time of year for Mutley, isn’t it?
Nell: Yes. Pizza Mutt are taking on extra staff. David is hoping to do deliveries but I’m not sure. He doesn’t have the necessary discipline and his record is poor. You can’t eat a few slices and expect no one to notice.
Me: True. Isn’t it wonderful to have Chris home?
Nell: It certainly is. I was quite overcome when he stepped off the train.
Me: So was I.
Nell: I know. Did you and Kev have to wear Santa hats?
Me: We made him smile.
Nell: I think he would have been smiling whatever you were wearing, don’t you?
Me: Yes. Sorry.
