Me: What do you think of Breakfast in Bed?
Nell: It’s an excellent idea. Especially when it’s cold and you’re still in recovery.
Me: Yes, that’s what I thought. A chance for me to unwind and relax.
Nell: Exactly, and begin the day a little more slowly.
Me: The thing about Breakfast in Bed is that you shouldn’t have an audience.
Nell: An audience?
Me: Of Labradors watching your every move.
Nell: At least we’re showing Respect and Restraint.
Me: Really?
Nell: We are sitting quietly next to the bed Being Encouraging and Supportive. Poppy is sitting on the bed Being Pushy and Slightly Fierce.
Me: It’s not as if you haven’t had your breakfast already.
Nell: One breakfast is rarely enough.
Me: But it’s only sourdough toast. Nothing fancy.
Nell: Toast is meant to be shared.
Me: This is not very relaxing.
Nell: It’s better than being downstairs. Trust me. The kitchen is full of mackerel.
Me: Any particular reason why?
Nell: There was an early morning Beefy attack.
Me: Oh dear.
Nell: Fortunately Poppy had her lacrosse stick to paw so she caught most of them.
Me: The Beefies?
Nell: No, the mackerel. Do try and be a little realistic.
Me: I didn’t know Poppy played lacrosse.
Nell: Oh yes. In her schooldays she was an excellent player and she still enjoys a game.
Me: What’s happening with the mackerel?
Nell: Fortunately it’s still fresh so Manuel is making mackerel paella.
Me: I’m not sure I want mackerel in my paella.
Nell: It isn’t for you. Princess and Sir Roger Blubbery are having a romantic lunch. We think he might propose.
Me: How exciting.
Nell: Do you want those crusts?
Me: Not really.
Nell: Well, share them then, please. We’ve been waiting for ages.
Me: Of course. Sorry.
