Me: I don’t think Dave remembers ever having seen snow. He’s been watching it for ages. Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: Don’t be so fanciful. He’s been watching out for evil sous chefs.
Me: I beg your pardon?
Nell: Assistant chefs. He’s been keeping an eye out for any baddies.
Me: Why on earth would he do that?
Nell: Stephen Seagull is cooking lunch and has requested assistance with his salmon en croute.
Me: He’s got Malcolm and Manuel.
Nell: We’re expecting the Beefies to turn up with the salmon and some of them might be good at pastry.
Me: We can’t have Beefies in the kitchen, Nell. Poppy would never condone it.
Nell: I’m beginning to regret listening to Miss Penny Lane. Stephen’s an excellent cook but there’s always an element of danger when he’s around.
Me: I never thought I would say this, but, given the choice, I would prefer Lionel.
Nell: Exactly. Lionel was absolutely charming in the kitchen. Everyone said so. He even made vegan alternatives.
Me: Can’t we ask Stephen to leave?
Nell: Not until after lunch.
Me: No. Obviously.
Nell: Salmon en croute is one of my favourites and The Cat is joining us.
Me: After lunch then?
Nell: Not immediately after lunch because that would seem rude.
Me: Yes, it would.
Nell: You could tell him around 3ish.
Me: I could?
Nell: You suggested it.
Me: You agreed.
Nell: Someone has to do it.
Me: I wish Poppy were here.
Nell: We all do.
Me: She would have seen him off.
Nell: She would.
Me: Do you think Knitwear Wolf would ask him to leave?
Nell: I think it has to be The Cat. After Poppy, The Cat is best at quick goodbyes. Rupert is far too reasonable.
Me: You’re right. Sorry.
