Me: We had a lovely Christmas Day, didn’t we?
Nell: It was exhausting.
Me: It was kind of you dogs to open your presents upstairs on my bed.
Nell: We thought you’d like to be involved.
Me: Christmas dinner was delicious. The Hoffmanns definitely deserve a day off.
Nell: I agree. Boxing Day is traditionally a leftovers day so we can all manage perfectly well on our own.
Me: To be honest I often enjoy Christmas Day leftovers more than the actual roast. Cold turkey is delicious.
Nell: I’m not a fan of cold sprouts.
Me: They’ll be going in the bubble and squeak later.
Nell: My friend Dorothy says sprouts go in salads nowadays.
Me: I’m not sure about that. Do you know what Nigel and Dave are up to, by the way?
Nell: What do you mean?
Me: I found them in deep discussion again.
Nell: Really?
Me: Yes. They seemed thick as thieves.
Nell: That’s a little harsh. I know David has been known to eat the occasional meal by mistake and Nigel has definitely stolen the odd baguette, but they are both much brighter than you would think.
Me: Nigel stole a baguette?
Nell: And a lump of cheese.
Me: How French of him.
Nell: That’s not the point.
Me: No. Thick as thieves is just a saying, Nell. They seem quite close at the moment.
Nell: Yes. I’ve noticed that, too. Harriet tried to listen in but all she could hear was bacon.
Me: Sizzling?
Nell: I beg your pardon?
Me: You said all she could hear was bacon.
Nell: No, they were discussing bacon.
Me: Oh, I see. I hope David hasn’t guessed his surprise.
Nell: What surprise? Why is David getting a surprise.
Me: You’re going to have to wait and see. Sorry.
