Me: Why are you and Poppy looking so concerned?
Nell: We’re tired of waiting for your test results.
Me: I’m not finding it easy either, but I don’t think that’s the reason. Is there something you’re not telling me?
Nell: What do you think of Poppy’s new haircut? It’s perfect for this hot weather, isn’t it?
Me: Just tell me.
Nell: Lionel got away.
Me: Oh no.
Nell: Dorothy did her best to distract him with a selection of local cheeses and some fig chutney, but he wasn’t interested.
Me; I don’t think I’ve ever had fig chutney.
Nell: That’s not the point.
Me: No.
Nell: He said he was happy with what was in his basket and did she work for Barks and Spencer because why else would she be pestering him?
Me: That was a bit rude of him.
Nell: I think he was hungry.
Me: Or hangry. It happens to us all.
Nell: Anyway, Dorothy said she didn’t actually work for Barks and Spencer but she liked to share recommendations to which Lionel replied, ‘Go and share them with someone else then.’
Me: Now, that really was rude.
Nell: Dorothy burst into tears and while an elderly Airedale was comforting her with a shortbread biscuit, Lionel paid and left.
Me: So, he’s still out there?
Nell: Yes. Beauregard scoured the town but there was no sign of him so we are guessing he has moved on.
Me: Maybe he’s hired another boat?
Nell: You might be right. Beauregard said all wasn’t lost as he and Oliver were able to enjoy an ice cream in the sunshine before they came home.
Me: I didn’t know Oliver was involved.
Nell: Oh yes. Where Beau goes, he goes.
Me: It’s Beau now, is it?
Nell: Yes. Why?
Me: Nothing. Sorry.
