An Early Start

Nell: What time do you call this? The birds haven’t even finished their breakfast.

Me: We have to catch an early train to get to the airport on time.

Nell: Did you just say ‘we’?

Me: I’m going back to Berlin with the family this time.

Nell: You’re doing no such thing.

Me: I am, Nell. Jonathan’s starting school and there’s going to be a big family celebration so Chris and I are flying to Berlin too.

Nell: Why didn’t you tell me?

Me: I did tell you a while ago, I just didn’t remind you.

Nell: I don’t know how I’m going to break this to the others.

Me: It’s not for long, Nell. I’ll be back next Sunday.

Nell: I expect regular updates.

Me: Of course. We’ll FaceTime.

Nell: I shall have my iBone switched on at all times and fully charged.

Me: I expected nothing less.

Nell: And I expect you to do the same.

Me: I will.

Nell: Kev won’t like this.

Me: He’s actually looking forward to doing his own thing for a week, to be honest.

Nell: Doing Your Own Thing can be fun at first but it doesn’t last.

Me: Good that you’re there to look after him then.

Nell: David and Harriet will take over the night shift and Poppy and I will cover the day.

Me: Make sure you get some rest.

Nell: There’s no time for that. We can’t all go swanning off across the world at a moment’s notice.

Me: It’s Germany, Nell, and the flights were booked months ago.

Nell: Including your return flight?

Me: Of course. I’ll be back Sunday evening. I promise.

Nell: You’d better be. And keep that phone switched on.

Me: Yes.

Nell: We’ll be fine. No need to worry.

Me: I know. Sorry.