Me: Oh Nell, what’s the matter? Why are the puppies watching over you?
Nell: It’s nothing to worry about. I was just feeling a little low and missing Charlie.
Me:I think this is a difficult day for a lot of people.
Nell: Yes.
Me: You probably aren’t in the mood for Cheeky Animals.
Nell: Is David playing again?
Me: I think he’s just trying to cheer you up.
Nell: Bless him. He’s right. There is no point in moping around. Charlie wouldn’t want that. It’s Valentine’s Day and we should be celebrating love.
Me: Shall I get your cards?
Nell: I suppose so, although I can’t think who sent them.
Me: What do they say?
Nell: ‘From one who loves you from afar and always will.’
Me: How romantic. And the other one?
Nell: ‘Be my Valentine. I know you like me.’
Me: That’s a bit over optimistic.
Nell: It certainly is.
Me: Why is Poppy clattering around in the kitchen?
Nell: She’s annoyed. Babycakes Gillespie made her a heart shaped bagel.
Me: How sweet.
Nell: Poppy has no time for ‘sentimental twaddle’. Her words. She sliced it in two with her sword.
Me: Lunch is going to be a bit tense then.
Nell: Squawk is going in the corner. If Susan insists on inviting that disreputable seagull then he can keep his distance.
Me: What about Terry?
Nell: Terry is sitting near me. He knows how to behave.
Me: Oh look outside, Nell. Dave is about to sing his song for Sally with the Welsh corgi choir.
Nell: Two songs, actually. ‘Daydream Retriever’, and my personal favourite, ‘I’m a Retriever.’
Me: ‘I couldn’t leave her if I tried?’
Nell: How did you know that?
Me: Just a lucky guess.
Nell: Well, stop talking and listen.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
