Nell: Are you packed and ready?
Me: Not quite, Nell. It’s still very early.
Nell: You sound terrible.
Me: I must admit I don’t feel that great.
Nell: What’s wrong?
Me: It’s just a cold. Nothing to worry about.
Nell: I’ll make sure you’re well looked after once you’re home.
Me: I know you will.
Nell: It’s fortunate you’re not travelling alone.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Herr Hoffmann is coming back with you, isn’t he?
Me: He is, and here’s the thing.
Nell: I never like it when you say that.
Me: You’ll like this. Frau Hoffmann is coming, too.
Nell: What about the cafe?
Me: Another Hoffmann’s taking over.
Nell: How many Hoffmanns are there?
Me: I don’t know.
Nell: Does Frau Hoffmann cook?
Me: Yes. Herr Hoffmann says she’s a real Mama Bear.
Nell: She sounds just what we need.
Me: Yes. The children are going to be sad to see her go.
Nell: They’re going to be sad to see you go.
Me: I feel the same way. I wish I lived nearer, Nell. This week has been wonderful. Just being here and joining in family time.
Nell: I know but they’re coming to see us for three weeks in the summer.
Me: They are.
Nell: And that’s something for us all to look forward to.
Me: It is.
Nell: Have you organised a seat for Frau Hoffmann on the plane?
Me: We booked the front three seats already and Herr Hoffmann says they don’t mind squeezing in together.
Nell: Will the airline cope with two bears?
Me: I’m not sure, but I’m about to find out.
Nell: Just get home safely. Kev and I will be waiting at the station.
Me: Yes.
Nell: And remember it’s Auf Wiedersehen not goodbye. You’re seeing them soon.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
