Me: Wasn’t it lovely to see Tony again? I couldn’t believe it when he knocked on the door.
Nell: He is our postman.
Me: I know but we haven’t seen him for ages.
Nell: Yes, he’s been gone far too long.
Me: He was off sick, Nell. He had to get well again.
Nell: David couldn’t control his emotions as usual.
Me: Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy. He missed his best friend so much.
Nell: Fortunately Tony doesn’t mind but David can’t throw himself at everyone.
Me: He’s just a great big bundle of affection.
Nell: That’s one way of putting it.
Me: You know my sisters are coming to stay this weekend?
Nell: Yes. We’re celebrating Alex’s birthday. Belatedly.
Me: Charlotte had the flu so we couldn’t get together until now. Anyway, Alex is bringing little Hattie Button.
Nell: Who?
Me: Your cousin Hattie Button the cockapoo. You’ll finally get to meet her. She’s awfully sweet and fluffy.
Nell: I don’t do sweet and fluffy.
Me: Well, you’d better.
Nell: Why are you and Kev dressed up?
Me: We’re going to my Wednesday Writers Christmas Lunch at the Cottage Hotel.
Nell: The Cottage Hotel in Hope Cove?
Me: Yes.
Nell: My favourite place?
Me: And mine.
Nell: What time are we leaving?
Me: I’m afraid you can’t come with us, Nell. It’s no dogs in the dining room.
Nell: Eat outside then.
Me: We can’t. It’s a special lunch and it’s far too cold outside.
Nell: I can’t believe this. First you tell me I have to welcome someone sweet and fluffy into my home this weekend and then you tell me you’re going to my favourite place for lunch and leaving me behind.
Me: I’m leaving everyone behind except Kev.
Nell: I rest my case.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
