Me: I found this beautiful photo of you and Harriet taken a few years ago at the beach in the sunset, and I thought it would be good to post it again.
Nell: I know today would have been your little sister Alex’s 60th birthday.
Me: She’s always in my thoughts but today especially. She left us far too early, Nell. I miss her so much.
Nell: Let’s go down to the beach later. I know I can’t walk very far, but you and I can sit and watch the others together.
Me: That would be lovely. The sea is my happy place.
Nell: I think this might be a boiled egg sort of day, with soldiers on the side. Crusts off.
Me: I think you’re right.
Nell: Your bodyguard David will be available for cuddles.
Me: How kind.
Nell: And you and I could play a game of Scrabble later, if you like?
Me: You always win.
Nell: I might not today.
Me: You will. You’re so competitive.
Nell: Rupert could read to us by the fire.
Me: I’d like that. Knitwear Wolf has such a deep and reassuring voice.
Nell: He does. We could even have a cream tea. I’m sure Herr Hoffmann would make some of Poppy’s scones. He has the recipe.
Me: I appreciate you looking out for me.
Nell: You do the same for me.
Me: We’re a team.
Nell: We are. Talking of teams, the llamas are thinking of taking up lacrosse.
Me: Really?
Nell: Have you ever played?
Me: No, but my sister Charlotte did.
Nell: Maybe she can give them a few tips?
Me: She’s 62 now, Nell.
Nell: Just because you can’t do something anymore doesn’t mean you can’t teach someone else.
Me: That’s true. Sorry.
Nell: No sorries. Not today.
