






Nell: Are you tracking Chris and Shannon’s flight?
Me: They’re only about two hours away now. Their flight was delayed by four hours.
Nell: How long have you been tracking them?
Me: Only off and on.
Nell: You’re supposed to be sleeping.
Me: You know what I’m like.
Nell: It’s all going to end in tears if you don’t get some sleep. I wish you would listen to me.
Me: Talking of not listening, can we have a quick word about yesterday, please?
Nell: What a wonderful day. Sunday Songs followed by a visit to the Garden Centre. I particularly enjoyed our walk along the river.
Me: You mean in the river.
Nell: Yes. I did a little paddling.
Me: The river was moving quite fast, Nell.
Nell: It was rather lively.
Me: I asked you not to climb down there but as soon as my back was turned you were off down the river bank and straight into the water.
Nell: I make my own decisions.
Me: We’re ladies of a certain age, Nell. We’re not as sprightly as we used to be.
Nell: Speak for yourself.
Me: And then you asked Faye to pick you a flower and you’re not supposed to do that.
Nell: We didn’t know. The children had a marvellous time.
Me: We all did. It was a magical day.
Nell: There you are then.
Me: You’re exasperating
Nell: And today is going to be even better.
Me: Yes, it is. I’m finally going to have my whole family together again. It’s been three years.
Nell: And now it’s only a matter of hours. I shall be accompanying you to collect Chris and Shannon from the station.
Me: I’m not sure there’s room.
Nell: We will make room. They’re my family too.
Me: Yes. Sorry.